LOLER Thorough Examination for Automotive Ramps & Lifts

LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations) requires lifting equipment to be thoroughly examined by a competent, independent person at set intervals.

For automotive businesses, this applies to:

Vehicle ramps
Vehicle lifts
Mobile lifting columns
Engine cranes and lifting accessories

A LOLER Thorough Examination is a legal inspection of the structure and safety-critical components — not a service and not routine maintenance.

The biggest misunderstanding..

Servicing is not a LOLER Thorough Examination

This is where many garages get caught out.

A service keeps your ramp operating
A LOLER Thorough Examination confirms it is safe and legally compliant

They are not interchangeable.

Without a valid LOLER examination:

Your insurance may be invalid
Your manufacturer’s warranty can be void
You’re exposed if there’s an accident, claim or inspection

This is one of the most common issues raised by insurers and inspectors.

Why LOLER matters to your business

Protect your insurance cover

Protect manufacturer warranties

Identify serious defects before failure

Demonstrate compliance to insurers

and HSE

Protect staff working beneath

raised vehicles

LOLER isn't just paperwork,

its risk control!

Our LOLER Service

Garage Comply carries out independent LOLER Thorough Examinations specifically for automotive lifting equipment.

We focus on:

Vehicle ramps and lifts
Workshop lifting equipment
Automotive environments

All examinations are carried out:

Independently
Within defined competence
In line with LOLER and PUWER requirements
With clear, documented reports

No shortcuts. No assumptions. No grey areas.

What’s included in our LOLER examinations

Thorough examination of lifting equipment
Identification of defects and safety issues
Clear defect classification (immediate / serious / advisory)
Plain-English written report
Certification for compliance records
Practical guidance on next steps

Our reports are designed to stand up to insurance and regulatory scrutiny.

Is a service the same as a LOLER examination?

No. This is one of the most common and costly misunderstandings.

A service keeps the ramp operating
A LOLER Thorough Examination confirms it is safe and legally compliant

They serve different purposes and one does not replace the other.

How often do I need a LOLER examination?

In most automotive workshops:

Vehicle lifts and ramps: every 12 months
Lifting accessories (chains, slings, etc): every 6 months

Additional examinations may be required after installation, major repairs or damage.

Who is allowed to carry out a LOLER examination?

LOLER examinations must be carried out by a competent and independent person.

This means someone with:

Appropriate training
Relevant experience
Clear competence for the specific equipment

Garage Comply carries out examinations within defined automotive competence — not generic inspections.