Why LOLER Inspections Matter for Businesses in Rotherham
History and industry in Rotherham

Rotherham, located in South Yorkshire, has a long and proud industrial heritage, particularly in steel production and heavy engineering. Historically, Rotherham grew rapidly during the Industrial Revolution due to its proximity to natural resources such as coal and iron ore, which fuelled the expansion of the iron, steel, and coal mining industries. The town became especially known for producing high-quality steel and precision-engineered products, which were essential for shipbuilding, railways, and defence. While traditional heavy industries declined in the late 20th century, Rotherham has worked hard to reinvent itself with a more diversified and modern industrial base.
Today, advanced manufacturing and engineering remain at the heart of Rotherham’s economy. One of the town’s most significant assets is its location within the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District (AMID), which includes part of the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) shared with Sheffield. This site hosts high-tech companies such as Rolls-Royce, Boeing, and McLaren Automotive, focusing on cutting-edge manufacturing in aerospace, automotive, and materials science. The AMP is closely linked with the University of Sheffield’s Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC), which supports innovation and collaboration between academia and industry. These developments have positioned Rotherham as a national leader in high-value, high-tech production.
Beyond manufacturing, Rotherham has also seen growth in sectors such as logistics, retail, and healthcare. Its location near the M1 and M18 motorways makes it ideal for distribution and transport companies, with several logistics hubs operating in and around the borough. Retail and service industries provide jobs across the town, supported by regeneration efforts in the town centre and the development of retail parks. Additionally, Rotherham is investing in education and training to upskill its workforce, particularly through partnerships with local colleges and training centres linked to the AMP. As a result, Rotherham is transforming from its industrial past into a modern, innovation-driven economy with a strong foundation in both advanced manufacturing and logistics.

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 Rotherham 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 Rotherham – 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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