Why LOLER Inspections Matter for Businesses in Kirkby-in-Ashfield

History and Industry within Kirkby-in-Ashfield

Kirkby-in-Ashfield is a market town in Nottinghamshire, located within the Ashfield District in the East Midlands of England. Positioned between Mansfield and Nottingham, it has historically been part of the Nottinghamshire coalfield and was heavily shaped by the coal mining industry throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. Like many towns in the region, Kirkby-in-Ashfield experienced significant economic and social changes following the decline of coal mining in the 1980s and 1990s. In recent years, however, the town has undergone regeneration, and its economy has diversified into new industries and sectors.

Today, manufacturing and engineering play a key role in the town’s economy. Kirkby-in-Ashfield is home to several small and medium-sized manufacturers, especially in metal fabrication, plastics, and mechanical components. These firms supply parts and products to wider industries such as automotive, construction, and general engineering. The town’s industrial estates, including Lowmoor Business Park and Maun Valley Industrial Park, house a mix of traditional and modern industrial businesses that continue to provide skilled employment opportunities for the local population.

Logistics and distribution have also become increasingly important in Kirkby-in-Ashfield due to its strategic location near the M1 motorway and good rail links. Several national and regional logistics companies operate distribution centres in or near the town, taking advantage of its central location within the UK. This sector has grown significantly, supporting both warehousing and transport jobs, and further contributing to the town’s economic transformation.

In addition to manufacturing and logistics, construction and property development have seen a rise in activity as part of wider regeneration efforts. New housing developments, commercial units, and infrastructure improvements have helped to modernise the area and attract further investment. These developments not only provide employment within construction itself but also support related sectors such as building materials, design, and property management.

Retail and service industries also play a role in the local economy, with Kirkby’s town centre offering a mix of independent shops, supermarkets, and service providers. Though relatively small, the retail sector is important for local employment and community life. Healthcare, education, and local government services are also key employers, helping to maintain the town’s economic stability.

In summary, while Kirkby-in-Ashfield has moved on from its coal mining past, it remains an important part of Nottinghamshire’s industrial fabric. Its economy is now supported by a blend of light manufacturing, logistics, engineering, construction, and service industries, making it a town that is steadily adapting to the demands of the modern economy while working to revitalise its infrastructure and community.

Kirkby in Ashfield is surrounded by towns and villages whose growth was strongly influenced by coal mining and related industries. Nearby places such as Sutton-in-Ashfield, Annesley, and Newstead expanded during the 19th and early 20th centuries as collieries opened across the Nottinghamshire coalfield. These settlements developed close links with Kirkby, sharing transport networks, housing, and a workforce centred on the mining industry.

Smaller villages including Selston, Huthwaite, and Skegby also relied heavily on mining, alongside supporting industries such as engineering, brickmaking, and quarrying. Railways and later road links allowed coal and industrial goods to be transported to larger industrial centres, helping these communities grow and prosper. Many villages combined pit work with small-scale agriculture, creating a mixed local economy.

Following the decline of coal mining in the late 20th century, the area experienced significant change. Former pit sites have been redeveloped into business parks, housing estates, and green spaces. Today, the surrounding towns and villages support a more diverse economy, with employment in manufacturing, logistics, retail, and services, while still reflecting the strong industrial heritage of Kirkby in Ashfield and the wider region.

Legal Requirements Under LOLER 1998

LOLER regulations place strict duties on business owners and equipment operators. Any business in Kirkby-in-Ashfield 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 Kirkby-in-Ashfield – whether in heavy industry, agriculture, healthcare, education, or automotive—depends on reliable, safe equipment. Regular LOLER inspections & LOLER testing reduces 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 Kirkby-in-Ashfield 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 Kirkby-in-Ashfield

Businesses in Kirkby-in-Ashfield 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 Kirkby-in-Ashfield businesses with impartial, expert inspections. We understand the local industries, from agriculture 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 Kirkby-in-Ashfield

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 in Kirkby-in-Ashfield?

Choosing the right inspection provider makes all the difference. Here’s why Kirkby-in-Ashfield businesses trust SEIS:

Local Knowledge of Kirkby-in-Ashfield Industry

From the agriculture, food manufacturing to 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.

Kirkby in Ashfield Facts

1. Kirkby in Ashfield is a town in Nottinghamshire, England, located in the Ashfield district.

2. The town has strong historical links to coal mining, which shaped its growth during the 19th and 20th centuries.

3. Kirkby in Ashfield is part of the Nottinghamshire coalfield area.

4. It lies close to neighbouring towns such as Sutton-in-Ashfield and Mansfield.

5. The town’s name comes from Old Norse, meaning “church village,” reflecting Viking influence in the area.

6. Kirkby in Ashfield has good transport links, including rail connections on the Robin Hood Line.

7. Much of the town expanded as housing was built for miners and their families.

8. Following the decline of mining, many former colliery sites have been redeveloped.

9. Today, Kirkby in Ashfield has a mixed economy including retail, manufacturing, services, and logistics.

10. The town has several parks and green spaces, including Kingsway Park, used for community events and recreation.

Book LOLER Inspection & Examination in Kirkby-in-Ashfield

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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