Who Does LOLER Apply To? Industries & Equipment Guide

By Lolerflow Team |  LOLER Compliance Specialists

The Short Answer

LOLER applies to any employer or self-employed person who provides lifting equipment for use at work, and to anyone who has control over lifting equipment — including people who use equipment that belongs to someone else. There is no minimum company size, no minimum frequency of use, and no sector exemption.

Industries Where LOLER Applies

Who Is the "Dutyholder"?

LOLER uses the term dutyholder to describe the person or organisation responsible for ensuring compliance. The dutyholder is typically the employer — but where equipment is hired, leased, or used by contractors, the person who has control of the equipment at the time of use bears the LOLER duties for that use. This means:

• If you hire out lifting equipment, you are responsible for ensuring it was properly examined before hire.
• If you use hired equipment, you are responsible for ensuring it was properly examined before you used it.
• If a contractor uses your lifting equipment on your site, both you (as site operator) and the contractor may have duties.
• If you are self-employed and own your own lifting equipment, you are the dutyholder.

Does LOLER Apply to Small Businesses?

Yes — without exception. LOLER has no minimum headcount or company size threshold. A sole trader with a single chain hoist has the same LOLER obligations as a major construction company with hundreds of assets. The only exemption is for domestic use — lifting equipment used in a private home for personal (non-commercial) purposes is outside LOLER's scope. The moment it is used for work purposes, LOLER applies.