Why LOLER Inspections Matter for Businesses in Castleford

History and industry in Castleford

Castleford is a historic town located in West Yorkshire, England, nestled along the River Aire. With roots tracing back to Roman times, Castleford has evolved from a modest settlement into a significant regional hub. The town was once part of the West Riding of Yorkshire and has seen considerable development over the centuries. Today, Castleford is part of the metropolitan borough of the City of Wakefield and benefits from its strategic location near major transport routes, including the M62 motorway, which supports both its residential and commercial appeal.

Historically, Castleford’s economy was deeply tied to coal mining and glass manufacturing, both of which played a pivotal role in shaping the town’s identity and growth during the Industrial Revolution. The coal industry, in particular, provided employment for thousands of residents and was central to the local economy up until the late 20th century, when the mines were gradually closed. Glass production, another legacy industry in Castleford, has left its mark on the town’s heritage, with local factories contributing significantly to the regional and national markets.

In recent decades, Castleford has undergone economic diversification. The town now features a mix of retail, logistics, and service-based industries. The Junction 32 shopping outlet and the nearby Xscape leisure complex have turned Castleford into a destination for shopping and entertainment, drawing visitors from across Yorkshire and beyond. Additionally, the area supports warehousing and distribution operations due to its excellent transport links, which has led to growth in logistics and related services. While the heavy industries have faded, Castleford continues to adapt, combining its industrial past with modern commercial development.

Castleford is a town in West Yorkshire, situated on the River Aire and the Aire & Calder Navigation. It is surrounded by towns and villages such as Pontefract, Glasshoughton, Airedale, Whitwood, and Methley. The area developed alongside the waterways, which historically provided transport for coal, textiles, and other goods. Castleford has long acted as a local commercial and industrial hub for the surrounding settlements.

Historically, the region’s economy was dominated by coal mining, glassmaking, and textiles. Coal mining in the surrounding villages, particularly Whitwood and Glasshoughton, supported the growth of Castleford and its neighbouring communities. Glass production was also significant, with Castleford being renowned for its glassworks during the 19th and 20th centuries. The presence of the River Aire and canal networks facilitated the movement of raw materials and finished products, strengthening trade links across West Yorkshire.

With the decline of coal mining and traditional manufacturing, the local economy has diversified. Modern industries include light manufacturing, logistics, retail, and service-based employment. Business parks and distribution centres have been developed in the surrounding villages, taking advantage of good road and rail links, including proximity to the M62 motorway. Leisure and tourism, including retail and sports facilities, also contribute to local economic activity.

Today, Castleford and its surrounding towns and villages reflect a blend of industrial heritage and modern commerce. While coal and glass production are part of the historical identity, the area now benefits from a mixed economy, combining residential communities, light industry, and service sectors that support both local and regional employment.

For these businesses and industries, staying compliant with the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER) is not just a legal requirement—it’s also about safeguarding your employees, protecting your business reputation, and ensuring your equipment remains safe and reliable.

Legal Requirements Under LOLER 1998

LOLER regulations place strict duties on business owners and equipment operators. Any business in Castleford that owns or operates lifting equipment must ensure that:

• Lifting equipment is safe to use.

• Examinations are carried out at regular, legally required intervals.

• Inspections are conducted by a competent and impartial person.

Failure to comply can lead to heavy fines, prosecution, and serious safety risks.

Protecting Your Workforce and Your Business

At SEIS, we know that every business in Castleford – whether in heavy industry, healthcare, education, or automotive—depends on reliable, safe equipment. Regular LOLER inspections reduce the risk of accidents, protect your workforce, and ensure smooth day-to-day operations. Compliance not only keeps you legal, but also demonstrates a strong commitment to employee safety.

What is a LOLER Thorough Examination?

A thorough examination under LOLER is a detailed and legally required inspection of lifting equipment. Unlike simple checks or maintenance tasks, a LOLER examination must be performed by an impartial, competent person and results in an official Report of Thorough Examination.

Frequency of Examinations

How often your lifting equipment in Castleford needs to be inspected & tested depends on its type and use:

• Every 6 months – For lifting equipment used to lift persons (e.g., passenger lifts, wheelchair lifts, patient hoists), or lifting accessories and attachments.

• Every 12 months – For other lifting equipment (e.g., cranes, forklifts, goods lifts).

• After significant changes or repairs – Equipment must be inspected immediately if it has been modified, damaged, or relocated.

Competent Persons and Impartial Reporting

LOLER requires inspections to be carried out by a competent and independent person—not by the equipment supplier or operator. At SEIS, we meet these exact criteria. Our inspections are impartial, unbiased, and always in line with UK regulations.

Types of Lifting Equipment Covered by SEIS in Castleford

Businesses in Castleford use a vast range of lifting equipment, and at SEIS we provide LOLER inspections across them all.

Lifts and Hoists

• Passenger lifts

• Goods lifts

• Vehicle lifts

• Wheelchair and platform lifts

Cranes and Forklift Trucks

• Overhead travelling cranes

• Mobile cranes

• Forklift trucks

• Lifting tackle and accessories

Lifting Accessories and Tackle

• Slings (chains, ropes, webbing)

• Shackles and hooks

• Lifting beams and frames

• Chain blocks and lever hoists

No matter the type of equipment on your site, SEIS ensures every examination is completed thoroughly, with full reports for your compliance records.

SEIS: Your Local Independent Inspection & Testing Company

SEIS is proud to support Castleford businesses with impartial, expert inspections. We understand the local industries, from the port to food production, and we tailor our service to meet your needs.

Independent, Impartial & Compliant

As an independent inspection provider, we do not sell or repair lifting equipment. This means you can trust our assessments to be impartial, unbiased, and fully in line with LOLER regulations.

Experienced Engineer Surveyors

Our team of qualified surveyors have years of hands-on experience across multiple industries. They know exactly what to look for and how to ensure your business remains compliant without unnecessary disruption.

Minimising Disruption to Your Operations

We understand that downtime costs money. That’s why we work around your production schedule, conducting inspections efficiently and professionally so your operations continue smoothly.

Our Inspection Process in Castleford

We make LOLER inspections & testing straightforward and hassle-free for local businesses.

Booking and Scheduling

Simply get in touch with our team, and we’ll arrange a time that works for you.

On-Site Examination

Our engineer surveyors visit your site and carry out thorough examinations with minimal disruption.

Report of Thorough Examination

After each inspection, you’ll receive a clear, detailed report highlighting any defects and recommended actions.

Ongoing Compliance Management

We’ll manage your inspection schedule, reminding you before your next due date. Plus, you’ll have access to our online reporting portal, so your certificates are always at your fingertips.

Why Choose SEIS for LOLER Inspections Castleford?

Choosing the right inspection provider makes all the difference. Here’s why Castleford businesses trust SEIS:

Local Knowledge of Castleford Industries

From the heavy industry and food manufacturing to hospitals, schools, and garages, we understand the unique challenges businesses here face.

Trusted by Multiple Sectors

We provide inspections for:

• Heavy industry

• Education

• Healthcare

• Automotive

Client-Centric Approach

We pride ourselves on safety, compliance, and customer service—always putting your needs first.

Castleford Facts

1. Castleford is a town in West Yorkshire, located on the River Aire.

2. The town sits near the Aire & Calder Navigation, historically important for trade and transport.

3. Castleford has a long history of coal mining, particularly in surrounding villages like Whitwood and Glasshoughton.

4. The town was known for its glassmaking industry during the 19th and 20th centuries.

5. Castleford is part of the historic West Riding of Yorkshire.

6. The town grew significantly during the Industrial Revolution due to mining and manufacturing.

7. Castleford is close to major transport links, including the M62 motorway and local rail lines.

8. The town has leisure facilities such as Xscape, a large entertainment complex, and sports clubs.

9. Today, Castleford’s economy includes logistics, retail, light manufacturing, and service industries.

10. Castleford serves as a commercial and service hub for surrounding towns and villages in the area.

Book LOLER Inspection & Examination in Castleford

Booking with SEIS is quick and easy:

✅ Call our friendly team

✅ Fill in our online booking form

✅ Get your inspection arranged around your schedule

We’ll handle the rest, ensuring your equipment is inspected thoroughly, your compliance is up to date, and your workforce is kept safe.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.

Name *

First

Last

Company Name *

Name Is

Location Postcode *

Phone Number *

Email *

My Enquiry Is Regarding *- Select -LOLERPSSRPUWERCOSHH

Plant Type *--- Select Choice ---Fork Lift Truck / Mobile Hydraulic HandlerCrane - Overhead / Goliath / Mobile etcPassenger lift / Goods lift / Platform liftPatient hoist / Patient sling(s) / Stair lift / Wheelchair Stair liftChain hoists & blocks / Lifting attachments / Lifting ancillaries / Lifting tackleVehicle lifts / Vehicle jack / Engine craneMobile Elevating Work PlatformTailboard lift / Lorry mounted crane / HIABOther

Plant Type *--- Select Choice ---Air receiver / Air compressor / Air oil receiver / Expansion vesselAir dryer units / Abrasive blast potsRefrigeration system(s)Steam boiler - Horizontal / VerticalSteam receivers / Steam heated roller / Steam heated platen / Blow down vessel / Steam jacketed panAutoclave / Coffee steam boilerWritten scheme of examination write up & certificationOther

Plant Type *--- Select Choice ---Pallet truck - Manual / PoweredLadders / StagingCNC machine / Industrial machineryPower pressStorage rackingAxle stands / hand toolsRoller shutter doorsOther

Plant Type *--- Select Choice ---Local exhaust ventilationWelding extractors / Welding hoodsDust extraction systemsFume cupboardOther

Comment or Message

Submit

LOLER Inspections & Examinations Castleford FAQ's