Why LOLER Inspections Matter for Businesses in South Shields

History and industry in South Shields

South Shields is a coastal town in South Tyneside, North East England, located at the mouth of the River Tyne. The town has a long history dating back to Roman times, when the fort of Arbeia was built to help supply Hadrian’s Wall. Its coastal position and access to the river have strongly influenced South Shields’ development, making it an important place for trade, defence, and maritime activity over many centuries.

During the 19th and early 20th centuries, South Shields became closely linked to heavy industry and maritime trade. Shipbuilding, ship repair, and engineering developed along the River Tyne, while nearby coal mines supplied fuel for industry and export. The town also became known for glassmaking, producing bottles and other goods, and for its busy port, which handled coal and other materials. These industries provided employment for large numbers of local residents.

Like many industrial towns in the North East, South Shields experienced economic decline in the late 20th century as coal mining and shipbuilding industries closed. This led to job losses and social challenges. In response, the town invested in regeneration and economic diversification, focusing on redeveloping former industrial land and improving the town centre and seafront.

Today, South Shields has a mixed economy with a strong emphasis on service industries. Retail, healthcare, education, and public services are major employers. The town centre and surrounding retail areas serve local communities, while small businesses and professional services also contribute to employment and economic activity.

Tourism and leisure now play an increasingly important role in South Shields’ economy. The town’s coastline, beaches, parks, and attractions such as Arbeia Roman Fort draw visitors throughout the year. Hospitality industries, including hotels, cafés, and restaurants, provide jobs and help support the local economy, showing how South Shields has adapted from a traditional industrial town to a modern coastal service centre.

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 South Shields 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 South Shields – 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 South Shields 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 South Shields

Businesses in South Shields 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 South Shields 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 South Shields

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 South Shields?

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

Local Knowledge of South Shields 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.

South Shields Facts

1. South Shields is a coastal town in South Tyneside, North East England.

2. It is located at the mouth of the River Tyne, facing the North Sea.

3. The town has Roman origins, with Arbeia Roman Fort built around AD 160.

4. South Shields played an important role in supplying Hadrian’s Wall.

5. During the 19th century, the town developed as an industrial and maritime centre.

6. Shipbuilding and ship repair were major industries along the River Tyne.

7. The town was also known for glassmaking and coal export.

8. Traditional heavy industries declined in the late 20th century.

9. Today, the economy is mainly service-based, including retail, healthcare, and education.

10. Tourism and leisure are important industries, supported by beaches, parks, and historical attractions.

Book LOLER Inspection & Examination in South Shields

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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