Under the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER), businesses are legally required to have their lifting equipment thoroughly examined at set intervals. This inspection must be carried out by a Competent Person – but what exactly does that mean, and how do you choose the right one?
Selecting the right Competent Person is critical to ensuring the safety of your operations, maintaining compliance, and avoiding costly downtime. In this guide, we’ll break down what to look for and how to make the right choice for your business.
What is a Competent Person Under LOLER?
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) defines a Competent Person as someone with the appropriate practical and theoretical knowledge and experience to detect defects or weaknesses in lifting equipment, assess their significance, and advise on necessary actions.
They must be independent and impartial when carrying out the examination – meaning they should have no vested interest in the continued use of the equipment they’re inspecting.
Why the Right Choice Matters
Choosing the wrong Competent Person can result in:
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Missed safety issues that put workers at risk.
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Incomplete or inaccurate inspection reports.
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Potential legal and financial consequences if an accident occurs.
The right Competent Person will ensure your equipment meets safety standards, reduce the likelihood of breakdowns, and help your business remain compliant with LOLER.
Key Qualities to Look For
1. Relevant Qualifications and Training
Look for evidence of professional qualifications in engineering or inspection disciplines. Membership of relevant industry bodies (such as the Lifting Equipment Engineers Association – LEEA) is also a good sign.
2. Practical Experience
A Competent Person should have hands-on experience with the specific type of lifting equipment you operate, whether that’s cranes, hoists, forklift attachments, or lifting accessories.
3. Industry Knowledge
They should understand the operational context of your equipment, including the typical hazards, wear patterns, and regulatory requirements in your sector.
4. Independence and Impartiality
To avoid conflicts of interest, the Competent Person should be separate from the maintenance and operation of the equipment they’re inspecting. This independence ensures objectivity in their findings.
5. Strong Communication Skills
Inspection findings are only useful if they are clear, concise, and actionable. A good Competent Person will explain issues in plain language, with prioritised recommendations.
Questions to Ask Before Appointing a Competent Person
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What relevant qualifications and certifications do you hold?
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How many years of experience do you have inspecting this type of equipment?
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Can you provide references from similar businesses?
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How do you ensure impartiality in your inspections?
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What does your inspection process involve, and what will be included in the final report?
The Inspection Process
A Competent Person will:
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Review your lifting equipment and relevant documentation.
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Conduct a thorough examination in line with LOLER requirements.
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Identify defects or areas of concern, advising on corrective actions.
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Produce a written report that complies with legal obligations.
How SIS Ltd Can Help
At SIS Ltd, our engineer surveyors are fully qualified and experienced Competent Persons, specialising in LOLER inspections across a wide range of industries. We combine deep technical expertise with a practical understanding of workplace demands, ensuring inspections are thorough, compliant, and minimise disruption to your operations.
Whether you need a one-off examination or ongoing inspection support, we can help you stay safe, compliant, and confident in the performance of your lifting equipment.
Contact SIS Ltd today to arrange your next LOLER inspection and ensure your lifting equipment is in safe, capable hands.
