Why LOLER Inspections Matter for Businesses in Hull

History and industry in Hull

Hull (Kingston upon Hull) is a historic port city in East Yorkshire, England, situated on the north bank of the Humber Estuary. It has a rich maritime heritage, having developed around its strategic location where the River Hull meets the Humber. Originally founded in the 12th century, Hull grew into an important trading hub in the Middle Ages and later became a centre for whaling and fishing in the 18th and 19th centuries. Despite facing economic challenges in the late 20th century due to the decline of traditional industries, Hull has undergone significant regeneration in recent years, particularly following its status as the UK City of Culture in 2017.

Modern Hull’s economy is diverse, with a strong emphasis on renewable energy, manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, and education. One of the most prominent developments in recent years has been the growth of the renewable energy sector, particularly offshore wind. Siemens Gamesa, in partnership with Associated British Ports, has established a major wind turbine blade manufacturing facility at Alexandra Dock. This development has positioned Hull as a key player in the UK’s green energy transformation, creating hundreds of jobs and attracting further investment in the region.

Manufacturing and chemical industries also play a significant role in Hull’s economy. Companies like Croda International, Reckitt (formerly Reckitt Benckiser), and Smith & Nephew have longstanding roots in the area, producing pharmaceuticals, personal care products, and medical equipment. These firms are central to Hull’s industrial identity and contribute heavily to both local employment and global exports.

The port of Hull remains a critical asset for trade and logistics. Operated by Associated British Ports (ABP), it serves as a gateway for freight and passenger ferries to Europe, particularly the Netherlands and Belgium. The port supports a wide range of commercial activities, including the import and export of goods like timber, steel, and food products, and is integral to the region’s supply chain infrastructure.

Education and healthcare are also significant employers, with the University of Hull providing both academic and research contributions to the city’s development. The healthcare sector, anchored by Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, supports a large workforce and serves a wide geographical area.

In summary, Hull is a city with a strong industrial legacy that is reshaping itself through innovation and investment in future-facing industries, particularly in sustainability and green energy, while still maintaining a foundation in manufacturing and trade.

Kingston upon Hull sits on the north bank of the Humber Estuary and is surrounded by a mix of towns and villages such as Hessle, Cottingham, Beverley, Hedon, Willerby, and Anlaby. These settlements developed around the waterways, fertile farmland, and transport routes that connect Hull to the wider East Riding of Yorkshire. Hull has long acted as the main commercial and industrial centre for the area, while surrounding towns and villages supported trade, agriculture, and housing for workers.

Historically, Hull’s growth as a major port strongly influenced nearby communities. Fishing, shipping, and trade through the Humber provided employment not only in the city but also in places like Hessle and Hedon, where shipbuilding, fishing-related work, and maritime services developed. Inland towns such as Beverley and Cottingham remained more agricultural, supplying food and raw materials to the port and city markets.

In the modern era, industry across the Hull area has diversified. Logistics, warehousing, food processing, and manufacturing are important employers, supported by strong road, rail, and port links. The growth of renewable energy, particularly offshore wind, has also brought new industry to Hull and surrounding towns, creating jobs in engineering, assembly, and port services.

Today, the towns and villages around Hull reflect a balance between historic rural and maritime industries and modern economic activity. Agriculture remains important in the wider countryside, while industry, services, education, healthcare, and commuting play a growing role, with Hull continuing to act as the economic hub for the region.

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 Hull 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 Hull – 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 Hull 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 Hull

Businesses in Hull 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 Hull 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 Hull

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 Hull?

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

Local Knowledge of Hull 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.

Hull Facts

1. Hull’s full name is Kingston upon Hull.

2. It is a port city located on the north bank of the Humber Estuary in East Yorkshire.

3. Hull was founded in the late 12th century as a trading port.

4. The city has a long maritime history based on fishing, shipping, and trade.

5. Hull played a major role in the UK’s fishing industry during the 19th and 20th centuries.

6. The Humber Bridge, one of the longest single-span suspension bridges in the world, connects Hull to Lincolnshire.

7. Hull was named UK City of Culture in 2017.

8. The city suffered extensive damage during World War II due to bombing raids.

9. Hull is home to several museums, many of which offer free entry.

10. Today, Hull’s economy includes ports and logistics, manufacturing, renewable energy, education, and healthcare.

Book LOLER Inspection & Examination in Hull

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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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

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