Keep compliant with LOLER Lifting Regulations

Shadow Boards

A Lifting Equipment shadow board is a practical tool storage and organisation solution that can support compliance with LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations) 1998 by promoting good practices in equipment management, inspection, and safety. Here’s how:

1. Improves Equipment Identification

• Each tool or lifting accessory (e.g., slings, shackles, hooks) has a designated, visible spot on the shadow board, specific SWLs can be printed onto the boards.
• Ensures equipment is stored in an orderly way and allows for quick identification of available and unavailable equipment, reducing the likelihood of using unapproved or damaged lifting gear.

2. Facilitates Regular Inspections

     LOLER mandates thorough examinations and inspections of lifting equipment. A shadow board:

• Helps ensure equipment is available and ready for inspection and not haphazardly stored away in cupboards or on the floor.
• Makes it easy to spot if an item is missing, which can trigger checks to confirm whether it is in use or being inspected.

3. Prevents Unauthorised Use

• Clearly outlined spaces on the board can include labels for the lifting gear, specifying inspection dates and certification status.
• This helps prevent the use of equipment that hasn’t been inspected or doesn’t meet LOLER requirements.

4. Promotes Good Maintenance

• By encouraging proper storage, a shadow board helps protect lifting equipment from damage or wear, ensuring it remains safe to use and meets LOLER’s requirements for safe condition.
• Reduces the risk of contaminants (e.g., dirt, moisture) that could compromise equipment integrity.

5. Supports Record-Keeping

• Shadow boards can be paired with systems that integrate logs of inspection and maintenance schedules.
• Makes it easy to cross-reference stored equipment with LOLER inspection records and certifications.

6. Enhances Safety Culture

• A well-organized tool shadow board reinforces a professional and safety-first approach.
• Workers are more likely to adhere to proper lifting procedures and LOLER guidelines when equipment is clearly visible, accessible, and regularly monitored.

By ensuring organisation, accountability, and compliance with inspection and storage best practices, a tool shadow board can play a key role in meeting LOLER lifting regulations and maintaining a safe work environment.