Examination Schemes Under LOLER Explained
What is an Examination Scheme under LOLER?
For those instances where it is not reasonably practical to carry out LOLER examinations at the frequencies defined within the legislation, i.e., either every 6 months or 12 months, LOLER allows for an Examination Scheme to be drawn up by a competent person, and examinations carried out in line with the scheme. For example, where you have equipment that is underutilised or not used very often, there may be justification for drawing up an examination scheme which in turn can often prove to be a pragmatic and cost effective approach.
We've Got You Covered
What Types of Equipment Can We Create a LOLER Examination Scheme For?
We develop tailored, risk‑based examination schemes for a wide range of lifting equipment used across industrial, construction, manufacturing, and specialist environments, including:
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Forklifts
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Jacks
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Tail lifts
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Lifting beams
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Cranes
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Vehicle lifts
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Patient hoists
Experience the Carn Difference
Why Choose Carn Engineering For Your Examination Scheme Under LOLER?
✔ Comprehensive inspections — Covering many different types of lifting equipment across a wide range of industries.
✔ Fully compliant assessments — Aligned with regulations in both UK and Ireland.
✔ Experienced, multi-disciplined engineers — We can take care of all of your engineering inspection needs saving you time, money and hassle.
✔ Flexible service options — Available for one‑off examinations or scheduled inspection programmes across multiple sites.
✔ Sector‑wide expertise — Supporting manufacturing, logistics, construction, automotive, healthcare, and more.
✔ On-line client portal — Access all of your past, and current reports along with your upcoming scheduled inspections.
We Travel Far & Wide
Where Do We Provide Examination Schemes Under LOLER?
We provide examinations chemes under LOLER across all of Ireland and the UK. Our coverage includes major cities, rural areas, industrial hubs, and construction sites, ensuring every client—no matter their location—has access to reliable, accredited written schemes of examination.
Whether you operate a single site or manage multiple locations across regions, our team delivers consistent, high‑quality examinations to keep your lifting equipment fully compliant and your operations running safely.
Know Your Obligations
When Do You Need an Examination Scheme Under LOLER?
An examination scheme under LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998) is required whenever lifting equipment needs a structured, risk‑based plan for thorough examination rather than relying solely on the default statutory intervals. Thsi includes:
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When equipment operates in demanding or high‑risk environments — Heavy use, harsh weather, corrosive conditions, or abrasive materials may require more frequent or more detailed examinations than the standard intervals.
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When lifting equipment has unique designs or configurations — Bespoke, modified, or non‑standard lifting systems often need a customised examination plan to ensure all safety‑critical components are assessed properly.
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When equipment is used more intensively than normal — High‑duty cycles, continuous operation, or repetitive lifting tasks can accelerate wear and justify a tailored examination frequency.
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When the default LOLER intervals are not suitable — If the standard 6‑month (lifting accessories and people‑lifting equipment) or 12‑month (other lifting equipment) intervals do not reflect the actual risks, an examination scheme provides a compliant alternative.
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When insurers or auditors require documented risk‑based examination — Many insurers expect a formal scheme to demonstrate that lifting equipment is being managed proactively and in line with best practice.
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When duty holders want clearer evidence of compliance — A written examination scheme provides a defensible record showing how inspection decisions were made and how risks are being controlled.
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