Why LOLER Inspections Matter for Businesses in Durham

History and industry in Durham

The city of Durham is a historic cathedral city in North East England, built on a peninsula formed by the River Wear. It is internationally known for Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle, which together form a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded in the late 11th century following the Norman Conquest, Durham developed as a centre of religious and political power, governed for centuries by the Prince-Bishops of Durham. The city’s dramatic setting and well-preserved medieval character continue to shape its identity today.

Education is one of the most important industries in Durham, largely due to Durham University, which was founded in 1832 and is one of the UK’s leading universities. The university is a major employer and attracts students, academics, and researchers from around the world. It supports a wide range of related industries, including research, administration, student accommodation, retail, and leisure services. The presence of a large student population has a significant influence on the city’s economy and culture.

Tourism is another key industry within Durham. Visitors are drawn by the cathedral, castle, museums, and historic streets, as well as riverside walks and cultural events. Tourism supports jobs in hospitality, including hotels, cafés, restaurants, and visitor services. The city also hosts festivals, markets, and performances, which contribute to the local economy and reinforce Durham’s reputation as a cultural destination.

While Durham is no longer an industrial city in the traditional sense, it has close historical links to coal mining and heavy industry in the surrounding county. Today, the city’s economy is largely service-based, with employment in public services, healthcare, retail, and professional services. Combined with education and tourism, these industries give Durham a stable and diverse economy that balances its historic heritage with its modern role as a centre for learning, culture, and services.

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 Durham 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 Durham – 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 Durham 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 Durham

Businesses in Durham 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 Durham 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 Durham

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 Durham?

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

Local Knowledge of Durham 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.

Durham Facts

1. Durham is a cathedral city in North East England, located on the River Wear.

2. Durham Cathedral, built in the late 11th and early 12th centuries, is one of the finest examples of Norman architecture in Europe.

3. Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle together form a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

4. The city developed under the control of the Prince-Bishops of Durham, who ruled the area for centuries.

5. Durham University, founded in 1832, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the UK.

6. The River Wear forms a loop around the city centre, giving Durham its distinctive layout.

7. Tourism is a major industry, supported by historic buildings, museums, and cultural events.

8. Durham has strong historical links to the coal mining industry of County Durham.

9. The city has a relatively small population compared to other UK cities, giving it a compact feel.

10. Today, Durham’s economy is mainly service-based, focusing on education, tourism, retail, and public services.

Book LOLER Inspection & Examination in Durham

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.

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