Why LOLER Inspections Matter for Businesses in Huddersfield
History and industry in Huddersfield
Huddersfield is a large market town in West Yorkshire, located between Leeds and Manchester, and historically known for its contributions to the textile industry during the Industrial Revolution. With access to water power from the River Colne and abundant local resources, Huddersfield became a centre for woollen and worsted cloth production, gaining a reputation for producing high-quality fabrics that were exported worldwide. This industrial success helped shape the town’s architecture, civic buildings, and infrastructure. While large-scale textile manufacturing has declined, Huddersfield still retains strong links to textile production, particularly in high-end and specialist fabrics.

Today, manufacturing and engineering remain important to Huddersfield’s economy. The town is home to several firms involved in precision engineering, automotive components, textiles, and chemicals. Companies such as Cummins Turbo Technologies, which manufactures turbochargers for commercial engines, are based in Huddersfield and operate globally. The town’s manufacturing sector benefits from its skilled workforce and its location within the M62 corridor, providing excellent road links to major cities and ports. Smaller engineering firms and niche manufacturers also contribute significantly to the local economy, often serving international markets.
In addition to manufacturing, Huddersfield has a strong presence in education, healthcare, and creative industries. The University of Huddersfield plays a central role in the town’s development, offering expertise in engineering, computing, and the arts, while also partnering with local businesses through innovation and research initiatives. The town has a growing digital and media sector, supported by a young population and university talent. Retail, professional services, and logistics also contribute to Huddersfield’s diverse economy, helping the town to continue adapting to modern economic challenges while retaining its industrial character.

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 Huddersfield that owns or operates lifting equipment must ensure that:
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Lifting equipment is safe to use.
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Examinations are carried out at regular, legally required intervals.
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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 Huddersfield – 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.
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