Lifting operations are a critical part of many industries, yet they remain one of the most common sources of workplace risk. While organisations invest in equipment, the real challenge lies in ensuring it is used safely, consistently, and in line with regulations.
At SHS Handling Solutions, we focus on closing the gap between compliance and real-world application by helping businesses improve safety, reduce risk, and build operational confidence.
What are the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER)?
The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 set out the legal requirements for the safe use of lifting equipment in the workplace.
These regulations apply to all industries where lifting operations take place and require that:
- Lifting equipment is suitable for its intended use
- Lifting operations are properly planned and supervised
- Equipment is regularly inspected and maintained
- Operators are trained in safe lifting practices
Meeting LOLER regulations is essential for compliance, but compliance alone does not guarantee safe outcomes
Why safe lifting practices still fail
Despite clear lifting equipment regulations in the UK, many incidents still occur due to gaps between policy and practice.
According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), around 473,000 workers in Great Britain are affected by work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) each year, with lifting and handling activities a leading cause. These cases represent roughly one third of all work-related ill health.
In most cases, injuries are not caused by equipment failure, but by:
- Poor or inconsistent lifting techniques
- Lack of equipment familiarisation
- Inadequate training in real working conditions
- Lifting operations that are not effectively planned or followed
This highlights a key issue: safe lifting practices are not just defined by regulation but are shaped by behaviour.
Moving beyond LOLER compliance
Many organisations approach lifting operations and lifting equipment regulations as a checklist exercise. While this ensures legal compliance, it does not always translate into safer day-to-day operations.
To reduce risk effectively, lifting operations must be:
- Understood by operators in real working conditions
- Supported by practical, hands-on training
- Reinforced through consistent, repeatable behaviours
This is where many safety strategies fall short
A practical approach to safer lifting operations
At SHS Handling Solutions, we take a different approach, one that focuses on how lifting operations actually happen in the real world.
SHS equipment training provides engineer-led familiarisation training, delivered on-site using your equipment and workflows. This ensures that safe lifting practices are not just explained, but applied in context.
By embedding training into live environments, organisations can improve operator confidence and ensure lifting equipment is used correctly.
As SHS Service Manager, Paul Byrne, explains:
“Safety and training has to be the starting point for any operation. When people are properly trained and confident using the right equipment, risk reduces and performance improves.”
Embedding safe lifting practices into everyday operations
Effective lifting operations depend on more than equipment, they rely on alignment between people, processes, and environment.
SHS supports this through a structured hands-on training. This ensures your lifting operations are practical, efficient, and consistently safe.
We can also provide ongoing servicing and maintenance support to help ensure continued compliance with LOLER regulations and safe equipment performance over time.
Ready to improve your lifting operations?
Find out more about SHS Equipment Training here or by contacting us today and take the first steps to building a culture where safety is a strategic advantage.
Frequently asked questions about lifting operations and LOLER
What is LOLER?
The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 is UK legislation that ensures lifting equipment is safe to use, properly maintained, and operated by trained personnel.
Who needs to comply with LOLER regulations?
Any organisation that uses lifting equipment in the workplace must comply with LOLER regulations. Industries including but not limited to logistics, construction, and retail.
What are safe lifting practices?
Safe lifting practices include correct use of equipment, proper planning of lifting operations, and ensuring operators are trained to carry out lifting tasks safely and efficiently.
Is training required for lifting equipment?
Yes. LOLER regulations require that lifting equipment is used by competent and trained individuals. Practical, real-world training is essential to ensure safe operation.
