Service · South West England
LOLER inspections for arborists & tree surgeons
Six-monthly LOLER thorough examinations of climbing, rigging and lifting equipment — carried out by a qualified arborist who understands how the kit is actually used in the tree.
- TechArborA
- Dip Level 4 Arb
- QTRA Registered
- LOLER Inspector
What LOLER requires
The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER) require lifting equipment used at work to be thoroughly examined by a competent person. Equipment used to lift or support people — climbing systems, harnesses and their components — and lifting accessories must be examined at least every six months, or in line with a written examination scheme.
Each examination is recorded in a written report, and any defect that makes the equipment dangerous must be reported so that item is taken out of service.
Why an arborist inspector
Arborist kit is specialised and used in demanding ways — friction devices, rigging blocks, lowering devices and slings all wear differently. An inspector who is a qualified arborist knows how the equipment is actually used in the tree, and what wear and damage matters.
Who it's for
- Tree surgery and arboricultural contractors
- Self-employed climbing arborists
- Councils, estates and grounds teams with in-house climbers
- Training providers with climbing and rigging kit
FAQs
Questions about LOLER inspections
How often do I need a LOLER thorough examination?
For equipment used to lift or support a person — climbing systems, harnesses and associated gear — LOLER 1998 requires a thorough examination at least every six months.
What equipment do you inspect?
Climbing systems, harnesses, ropes, lanyards, connectors, anchor points, rigging and lowering equipment, and lifting accessories used in arboriculture.
What do I get afterwards?
A clear report of examination for each item, flagging anything that needs removing from service, so your safety records are complete and up to date.
Can you inspect a whole team's kit in one visit?
Yes — I'm happy to examine a full team's equipment in a single visit to keep disruption and cost down. Get in touch to arrange a convenient time.
Do you cover my area for LOLER?
I carry out LOLER inspections across the South West. Tell me where you're based and I'll confirm.
Who can carry out a LOLER thorough examination?
LOLER requires a 'competent person' — someone with the practical and theoretical knowledge and experience to spot defects and judge how serious they are, and independent enough to make objective decisions. For arborist kit, that means understanding how the equipment is actually used in the tree.
Is a LOLER thorough examination the same as a pre-use check?
No. Climbers should still check their kit before every use. The six-monthly thorough examination is a separate, more detailed inspection by a competent person, recorded in a written report for your safety file.
How much does a LOLER inspection cost?
It depends mainly on how much equipment there is to examine. Examining a whole team's kit in one visit keeps disruption and cost down — tell me roughly what you have and you'll get a clear fixed quote, usually within one working day.
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