Lifts can be fantastic additions to a variety of properties, from commercial to residential buildings. To make sure these features are entirely safe for use, there are certain regulations in place. If you’re responsible for the management of a lift, it’s important to prepare for any inspections. In this article from Eternal Elevators, you can discover how to prepare for a lift inspection, helping you to ensure it passes.
What to Know About Lift Inspections
Before having a lift inspection, it can become helpful to familiarise yourself with what a lift inspection is and why they are carried out. In this section, you can discover everything you need to know about lift inspections, from their frequency to the steps taken in an inspection process.
LOLER Requirements
The main set of regulations your lifting equipment will be subjected to is LOLER. Standing for ‘The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998’, LOLER helps to make sure that all lifting equipment is fit for use. The inspections carried out to make sure that the lifting equipment is compliant will be completed by a qualified person, who will know how to detect and diagnose any problems with a lift.
Inspection Frequency
As a form of equipment used to lift people, it’s key to have an examination carried out on your lift every 6 months at a minimum. This is done to ensure that the lift is safe for use and does not pose a risk to those around it. Lifts should also be checked over after any significant changes have been made to a lift, such as major repairs.
The Inspection Process
To successfully prepare for a lift inspection, it can be helpful to get further acquainted with the inspection process itself. This should help you to fully understand what might happen, preventing you from becoming surprised or ambushed by an unexpected element. Learn the steps typically taken in an inspection below.
Documentation Review
Generally, an inspection will begin with a look at the records and documents previously issued that are relevant to your elevator. This can include evidence of previous inspections, as well as any maintenance documentation.
Visual Inspection
Next, the competent person carrying out the lift inspection will check the visual appearance of your elevator. This step will often be used to identify damage to the elevator, such as dented surfaces or wear to the communication systems.
Mechanical Inspection
To check whether the elevator is operating properly, a qualified person or persons will likely investigate the mechanics of the elevator. This can include checking the condition of the connected cables and ropes, and ensuring that they operate properly and safely. They may also check the condition of the doors, ensuring that the lift doors can safely close when needed.
Testing
In some cases, the person carrying out the inspection may test some of the features and the operation of the elevator. This will help to give them an idea of how well the elevator functions and whether it is still safe to use. Tests can also include the electrical components found in an elevator, from the safety circuits to the control systems.
Report and Recommendations
After completing the inspection process, a competent person will then be able to issue a report regarding the inspection, including whether the machine is still suitable for use. The inspector may also make recommendations for repairs or even stop the lift from being used until after specific elevator repairs are completed.
Reasons for Failing a Lift Inspection
To prevent a circumstance where you fail your lift inspection, it’s best to get acquainted with the reasons for a potential failure. This way, you can help to ensure that these scenarios are carefully avoided. In this section, you can discover some potential reasons your lift could fail an inspection.
Defective or Damaged Equipment
Dangerous when left unchecked, damaged or defective equipment can have a disastrous impact on the overall performance and function of the equipment. If defective or damaged equipment is discovered, it could compromise the function of your lift overall. If you suspect there may be an element of your elevator that has become damaged, it’s important to employ the services of a professional to have it addressed prior to an installation.
Poor Operation Practices
Lifts have their limits for a reason. It’s important to ensure that you are not exceeding the weight limit of your lift, as this can lead to a recorded LOLER violation. If evidence left behind is detected, such as wear or misuse marks, this can lead to a failed rating. Make sure your elevator is only used for its intended purpose and its maximum capacity of persons is not exceeded.
Inadequate Record-Keeping
When it comes to your elevator, incomplete documentation can be the downfall of your inspection. Make sure to safely store and record all maintenance work and previous inspections to supply to the inspector should you be asked. If your elevator is also missing identification marks, this can also lead to a failed rating.
Preventing a Lift Inspection Failure
After a failed lift inspection, the best thing to do is to look forward and prepare for your next inspection. Typically, after a failed inspection, your inspector will provide you with the areas you need to address. Below, you can find some helpful information that can help you to succeed in your next inspection easily.
Know the Regulations
The best thing to do to make sure your lift is not violating any LOLER regulations is to familiarise yourself with those your equipment is subjected to. Staying informed of any updates to these regulations can help you continuously adhere to them and seek any maintenance or repairs from professionals with knowledge of LOLER regulations.
Comments