Smarter, More Cost-Effective LOLER & Maintenance of Medical Equipment in UK Care Settings

When it comes to delivering safe and effective care, the reliability of medical and patient-handling equipment is non-negotiable. From hoists and beds to baths, chairs, and scales, care providers across the UK rely on this equipment daily to support vulnerable individuals with dignity and efficiency. Yet too often, maintenance is approached reactively—only dealing with problems when they arise.

A proactive, smarter maintenance strategy can help avoid costly breakdowns, extend the life of equipment, ensure compliance with key regulations like LOLER, and most importantly, protect residents and staff alike.

Why Preventative Maintenance Makes Sense

Routine servicing and inspections might seem like an added expense, but they actually offer significant long-term savings. Preventative maintenance:

• Reduces the risk of unexpected failures, which can cause service disruption and distress.

• Minimises repair costs by catching minor issues before they escalate.

• Extends the lifespan of equipment, delaying costly replacements.

• Supports compliance with UK regulations, including LOLER and PUWER.

  
  

By maintaining your equipment regularly, you gain greater control over your operational budget, avoid last-minute emergencies, and improve safety for all users.

LOLER and PUWER: A UK Regulatory Requirement

In the UK, care homes are legally required to carry out regular inspections under two key pieces of legislation:

• LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998) applies to any equipment used for lifting, including mobile and ceiling hoists, stand aids, and slings. These must be thoroughly examined at least every six months by a competent person.

• PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998) requires that equipment is maintained in a safe condition and suitable for use.

Failing to meet these obligations can result in serious legal consequences, not to mention putting your staff and residents at risk. Partnering with a reliable, experienced service provider helps ensure that your records, inspections, and repairs are always up to date.

A Smarter Way Forward

So what does a smart and cost-effective maintenance strategy look like?

1. Asset Tagging and Record-Keeping

   Maintain a centralised, up-to-date record of all equipment, with service histories, warranty info, and inspection dates clearly logged.

   
   

2. Scheduled Servicing

   Regularly planned servicing—ideally every 6–12 months depending on usage—keeps equipment functioning optimally and highlights potential issues early.

   
   

3. LOLER Inspection Integration

   Align LOLER inspections with service visits to reduce disruption and ensure compliance without extra admin.

   
   

4. Swift Repairs from Trusted Partners

   Work with a provider that can respond quickly to faults and offers nationwide coverage, minimising downtime.

   
   

5. Staff Training

   Train staff in basic daily checks and correct usage to reduce user error and prevent unnecessary damage.

   
   

The Role of Safer Lifts

At Safer Lifts, we specialise in supporting care homes, hospices, and other care providers across the UK with:

• Scheduled maintenance and servicing

• LOLER and PUWER compliance inspections

• Breakdown response and repairs

• Full compliance documentation

• Free equipment condition surveys

  
  

Whether you're managing a single home or a group of sites, our tailored approach helps you reduce costs, stay compliant, and keep your equipment running safely and smoothly.

Ready to Improve Your Maintenance Strategy?

Don't wait for breakdowns to happen—get proactive about your equipment care.

📞 Call us today on 01423 393361📧 Or email sales@saferlifts.co.uk

Let Safer Lifts help you deliver safe, compliant, and cost-effective care.