Operating a care home in Derbyshire comes with many responsibilities, but ensuring resident safety must always be the priority. One essential step in maintaining high standards is arranging routine inspections of your lifting equipment. With expert LOLER testing in Derbyshire, you’ll stay compliant, avoid unnecessary risks, and demonstrate your commitment to care.
LOLER Testing Requirements for Derbyshire Care Providers
LOLER stands for the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998. These rules apply to all lifting equipment used in care homes, including hoists, slings, and other mobility aids. In Derbyshire, LOLER testing is essential for ensuring that such equipment remains safe, functional, and legally compliant.
Because LOLER is a statutory requirement, care providers must act proactively. Delaying inspections can result in penalties and—more importantly—endanger vulnerable residents. Staying ahead of these checks helps you avoid disruptions and maintain peace of mind.
How Frequently Is LOLER Testing Required?
In general, LOLER inspections for Derbyshire care homes should occur every six months if the equipment is used for lifting people. This frequency is designed to catch faults before they lead to breakdowns or injuries. Equipment not used for lifting individuals may qualify for annual inspections, but this depends on the context and level of use.
Care worker inspecting a mobile hoist during LOLER testing.
LOLER Inspections: 6 or 12 Months?
To clarify:
- Every 6 months: Patient lifting equipment such as mobile hoists and ceiling track systems.
- Every 12 months: Equipment used for general lifting tasks not involving people.
It’s always wise to consult with a qualified LOLER testing provider who can guide you based on your inventory and usage patterns.
Who Is Qualified to Perform LOLER Testing?
Only a “competent person” can carry out a LOLER inspection. This refers to someone with the right technical expertise, training, and independence from day-to-day equipment use. At [Your Company Name], our LOLER testing engineers in Derbyshire meet these standards and bring deep experience in the care sector.
What Happens During a LOLER Inspection?
During a standard LOLER test, the inspector will:
- Examine slings, hoists, and other lifting aids for wear or damage
- Assess the safe operation of each device
- Document any issues and outline the corrective steps
- Issue a LOLER certificate for your compliance records
Every inspection aims to keep your equipment safe and your care home running smoothly.
However, our team go further than most testers by:
- Completing a full safe working load test (up to 180kg)
- Provide a unique asset tag for each piece of equipment making it easier to identify your equipment
- Provide online access to our asset management portal where you can see every piece of equipment’s history, certificates and upcoming test dates
- Take care of the scheduling. Our service team will contact you in advance of each service due date and schedule in a qualified engineer at your convenience.
An Able engineer completes a full safe working load.
What Equipment Falls Under LOLER?
Care homes in Derbyshire typically use equipment such as:
- Hoists (mobile and ceiling track)
- Patient slings and transfer accessories
- Stand aids
- Electric profiling beds
- Bath lifts and shower chairs
A LOLER-certified inspector checks a patient sling for signs of wear.
If a piece of equipment helps lift or move a person, chances are it’s subject to LOLER.
Why Choose Us for LOLER Testing in Derbyshire?
At [Your Company Name], we understand the pressures care homes face. Our LOLER testing services in Derbyshire are built around flexibility, reliability, and expert knowledge. We carry out thorough, unobtrusive inspections and provide all necessary paperwork to prove compliance.
Our engineers are approachable, efficient, and highly experienced with care-specific lifting gear. We also stay updated on changing regulations, so you don’t have to.
Schedule Your LOLER Testing in Derbyshire Today
Protect your residents and staff while keeping your facility compliant with the law. Reach out to Able today to book professional LOLER testing in Derbyshire. We’re here to help you stay safe, legal, and fully supported every step of the way.
