In July 2025 a property developer and building manager, Nofax Enterprises, was fined £40,000 (plus £8,500 in costs) after a man was crushed by a faulty lift in a block of flats in East London.
A 23 year old man was trapped and gravely injured when a list started to descent with it’s doors still open, trapping and injuring him. He sustained life altering injuries, which resulted in him requiring a liver transplant.
An investigation by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) found that serious defects in the lift had been identified by a third party but no action had been taken.
By law, lifts must undergo thorough examination by a competent person every 6 months for passenger lifts and every 12 months for goods only lifts. Where a defect is identified and poses a risk to life, the lift must be taken out of service until repaired.
This case highlights why LOLER 1998 and PUWER 1998 compliance is essential, not just for legal protection but also for safeguarding lives.
What the Law Says: LOLER and PUWER
Under the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) 1998, all passenger and goods lifts must undergo:
- Thorough examination every 6 months for passenger lifts
- Thorough examination every 12 months for goods-only lifts
- Immediate action is required if any defect is reported that could put people at risk
In addition, the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) 1998 requires that all lift equipment provided for use at work is safe, maintained, and fit for purpose.
Failure to comply with these regulations can result in serious injury, prosecution, fines, and reputational damage.
Lessons from the HSE Case
This case clearly demonstrates:
- Ignoring safety defects puts lives at risk
- Duty holders are legally responsible for acting when defects are identified
- Lifts must not be used until repairs are complete and safety verified
- Documentation and compliance are critical to protect both users and businesses
Protecting People and Property with Thorough Lift Inspections
At Plant & Safety we provide nationwide passenger lift inspections and goods lift thorough examinations, ensuring full compliance with LOLER and PUWER.
Our services cover:
- Passenger lifts, goods lifts, hydraulic lifts, and machine-room-less (MRL) lifts, Vacuum (Air Driven) lifts, and Geared and Gearless traction lifts.
- Thorough examinations by competent inspectors
- Certification and reporting to keep you legally compliant
- Peace of mind that your lifts are safe for users and employees
Got questions about Passenger & Goods Lift Inspection and Thorough Examinations; Visit our FAQ or simply fill out the form below and we’ll get back to you.
WHAT WE OFFER
Don’t Take Chances with Lift Safety
If you own or manage a passenger or goods lift, make sure your statutory inspections and examinations are up to date.
We provides nationwide inspection, testing and certification to keep you compliant and your lifts safe.
Or visit our LOLER Inspection Testing and Thorough Examination page to find out more on LOLER and how we can help
How can we help?
To learn more or if you have any questions, please feel free to call or email us. You can also request a call back using our online form.
T: 0330 113 7920
E: sales@plantandsafety.co.uk
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