Expert Access Equipment Inspections Across the UK
At Inspection Services (UK) Ltd, we provide thorough statutory and non-statutory inspections of access equipment to help you meet your legal obligations and maintain a safe working environment. Whether you’re operating ladders in a warehouse or cradle hoists on high-rise buildings, our qualified engineers deliver expert assessments across the UK.
Access Equipment Defined
Access equipment refers to any apparatus used to reach elevated work areas safely. It includes both temporary and permanent systems designed to support workers during tasks performed at height.
Examples of Access Equipment
- Ladders and step ladders
- Mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs)
- Scaffolding towers
- Cradle hoists and suspended access systems
- Bosun chairs
- Harnesses and fall arrest systems
- Fixed access platforms
- Dock levellers
This list is not exhaustive – our team can inspect and test your access equipment even if it isn’t specifically mentioned.
Legal Requirements for Testing
Access equipment is regulated under the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) and, where lifting is involved, the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER). These regulations require that the equipment is:
- Suitable for the task
- Maintained in a safe condition
- Inspected at appropriate intervals (as mandated in regulation or guidance)
- Used by competent individuals
The HSE provides detailed guidance on inspection requirements for access equipment, including PUWER and specialist access systems, eg if you have windows that are more difficult to reach and need specialist equipment such as travelling ladders, cradles, or suspended access equipment.
Benefits of Regular Inspection
- Legal: Demonstrates compliance with Health & Safety at Work Act 1974 as well as PUWER and LOLER, reducing the risk of enforcement action, prosecution.
- Moral: Protects workers from falls and injuries, reinforcing your duty of care. Note that falls from height is the most common cause of fatality in the UK.
- Financial: Prevents costly downtime, repairs, and insurance claims.
- Production: Keeps operations running smoothly with safe, reliable equipment.
- Supplier Requirements: Many insurers and contractors require documented inspections as part of service agreements or evidence that your equipment is safe before they allow you onto their site.
Preparing for Your Inspection
You can expect to receive prompt and professional guidance from the first contact you have with us. Our experienced team will identify your needs, timeframes and local site protocols and send a clear indication of costs, service level and timeframes.
Once you have decided to proceed we will arrange a suitable time/date to visit and share details of your inspector.
We will need you to share details of your site rules so we can be prepared and ensure compliance. The equipment we need to inspect will need to be readily accessible and available to avoid it being overlooked.
Our examination and inspection includes:
- Visual and functional checks of access equipment
- Assessment of structural integrity, safety features, and wear
- Immediate verbal feedback of any significant problems, followed by a written report within 24–48 hours
You can expect to receive prompt and professional guidance from the first contact you have with us. Our experienced team will identify your needs, timeframes and local site protocols and send a clear indication of costs, service level and timeframes.
Once you have decided to proceed we will arrange a suitable time/date to visit and share details of your inspector.
We will need you to share details of your site rules so we can be prepared and ensure compliance. The equipment we need to inspect will need to be readily accessible and available to avoid it being overlooked.
Our examination and inspection includes:
- Visual and functional checks of access equipment
- Assessment of structural integrity, safety features, and wear
- Immediate verbal feedback of any significant problems, followed by a written report within 24–48 hours
- Ensure equipment is clean and accessible
- Provide previous inspection records if available (if we have previously visited, we will already have these)
- Make sure equipment is assembled and operational
- Notify staff and ensure someone familiar with the equipment is available
| Equipment Type | Regulation | Suggested Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Ladders & Step Ladders | PUWER | Annually or as needed |
| MEWPs | LOLER | Every 6 months |
| Cradle Hoists | LOLER | Every 6 months |
| Bosun Chairs | LOLER | Every 6 months |
| Harnesses & Fall Arrest | PUWER | Every 6–12 months |
| Fixed Platforms & Levellers | PUWER | Annually |
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Cradle hoists are classified as lifting equipment and must be inspected every 6 months under LOLER
Harnesses should be inspected every 6–12 months, or more frequently if used in harsh environments
A bosun chair is a suspended seat used for access at height. It must be inspected under LOLER every 6 months, with checks on ropes, anchor points, and seat integrity.
Yes. Our engineers are experienced in assessing bespoke systems and will advise on compliance and safety
We’ll provide a verbal summary on the day and a written report detailing required remedial actions before the equipment can be safely used.
Yes, it is a legal requirement to notify the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) if lifting equipment is found to have a defect that could cause serious personal injury. This requirement is part of the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER).