1. Routine Visual Checks (Daily/Before Each Use):
Whether in a care home or community setting, these checks should be carried out before each use by care staff or carers.
- Check slings for fraying, tears, worn stitching, or faded labels.
- Inspect hoists to ensure that they have an ‘in-date’ service, i.e. the service date on the label is not out of date.
- Inspect hoists for any visible damage or malfunction (e.g. jerky movement, unusual noises).
- Ensure battery-powered hoists are charged and show no faults.
- Check cables, plugs, and outer casings of any electrical equipment for damage.
- Test that emergency stop and manual lowering mechanisms are functioning correctly.
- Confirm that weight limits are visible and not exceeded for that particular individual.
Tip: Any equipment that appears unsafe should be removed from use immediately and reported.
2. Audits Visual Checks – (monthly/ad-hoc)
It is advised that you carry out regular audits of equipment. Audit checks should be carried out regularly by a Manager or other competent person, and documented on a spreadsheet.
- Sample Audit: Complete all the above checks on a random sample of each type of equipment
- Full Audit: Complete all the above checks on all items of each type of equipment
Audit spreadsheets should include documentation that LOLER inspections have taken place.
3. LOLER Thorough Examinations (Every 6 Months):
Under LOLER 1998, all lifting equipment used to lift people (e.g. hoists, slings) must undergo a thorough examination by a competent person every 6 months.
In Care Homes:
- The care provider is responsible for arranging LOLER inspections.
- Written reports must be kept, with action taken on any defects.
In the Community (e.g. in someone’s home):
- LOLER inspections are typically the responsibility of the equipment provider or prescriber, such as Hertfordshire Equipment Service (HES) or other NHS/local authority contractors.
- Community carers and agencies should:
- Check that LOLER inspection stickers or dates are up to date.
- Report any concerns, such as out-of-date service records, to the prescriber or relevant Community Therapy Team.
NB: If the person themselves, or their family have purchased their equipment, it is the purchaser’s responsibility to ensure that the equipment is serviced. However, the care staff must ensure that the equipment has been appropriately serviced before they use it. They must also refrain from using equipment that is unsuitable, damaged, or that does not have an up-to-date service label, and they must document and report this (including the plan to rectify the situation) according to their organisation’s policy.