Care homes rely on a variety of lifting equipment every day — from hoists to slings — to keep residents safe and comfortable. But using this equipment comes with a legal responsibility. Under the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER), care homes must ensure that all lifting equipment is safe, well-maintained, and regularly inspected. Having a LOLER inspection checklist for care home can help avoid a failing LOLER inspection, limiting costly downtime, urgent repairs, and even enforcement action. The good news is that with the right preparation, your care home can pass inspections smoothly and keep residents protected.

Why LOLER Matters in Care Homes

LOLER is not just about ticking a compliance box. It’s about protecting residents, staff, and visitors from injury. The regulations apply to any equipment used for lifting people, which in care homes usually means:

  • Mobile hoists

  • Ceiling track hoists

  • Standing aids

  • Slings and lifting accessories

The law requires a thorough examination at least every six months for equipment used to lift people. This must be carried out by a competent person and documented in an official LOLER report.

For full details, visit the HSE LOLER guidance.

Your LOLER Inspection Checklist

By following this checklist, you can ensure that your lifting equipment meets LOLER requirements and is ready for inspection.

1. Keep Thorough Records

Maintain up-to-date documentation for every piece of lifting equipment, including:

  • The last inspection date

  • The next inspection due date

  • Any repairs or servicing completed

  • Manufacturer’s instructions

Keeping these records organised makes inspection day much smoother.

2. Inspect Equipment Between Services

Staff should visually check equipment before each use. Look for:

  • Frayed or worn sling straps

  • Damaged castors or wheels

  • Loose bolts or fittings

  • Battery charging issues

If you spot a problem, take the equipment out of use immediately and arrange repairs.

3. Schedule Timely Servicing

Never wait until inspection day to discover a fault. Booking equipment servicing and LOLER testing in advance ensures problems are fixed before they can delay compliance.

4. Store Equipment Safely

When not in use, hoists and slings should be stored in a clean, dry area. Damp conditions can lead to rust or fabric damage, both of which can result in a failed inspection.

5. Train Staff on Proper Use

Even the best-maintained equipment can become unsafe if used incorrectly. Regular staff training reduces wear and tear and improves safety during lifting operations.

Common Reasons Care Homes Fail LOLER Inspections

Avoid these pitfalls to keep your inspection record spotless:

  • Using damaged or frayed slings

  • Missing inspection reports

  • Overdue six-month checks

  • Ignoring minor faults until they become major issues

Remember — a failed inspection doesn’t just mean downtime. It could also lead to resident safety risks and regulatory action.

Benefits of Staying LOLER Ready

Care homes that stay proactive about LOLER compliance enjoy:

  • Better resident safety – Reduces risk of injury during transfers

  • Smoother operations – Avoids last-minute breakdowns or equipment shortages

  • Improved staff confidence – Staff can work more efficiently with reliable equipment

  • Positive inspection outcomes – Demonstrates a strong culture of safety and compliance

Final Thoughts

LOLER inspections are an essential part of running a safe, compliant care home. With a clear checklist, regular maintenance, and good record-keeping, you can avoid stress on inspection day and focus on providing excellent care.

If you’d like help preparing for your next inspection or booking your LOLER testing, contact us today. Our equipment servicing and LOLER testing service ensures your care home stays compliant — and your residents stay safe.