Earthmoving Equipment Inspections

LOLER thorough examinations for excavators, backhoe loaders, mini diggers and skid-steer loaders used for lifting.

LDN Inspection Services provides statutory LOLER thorough examinations for earthmoving equipment used for lifting operations. Our qualified engineer surveyors inspect excavators, backhoe loaders, skid-steer loaders and their lifting attachments, delivering clear digital reports with photographic evidence.

Earthmoving Equipment Used for Lifting

When earthmoving equipment such as excavators, backhoe loaders and skid-steer loaders are used to lift suspended loads, they are classified as lifting equipment under the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER) and must be thoroughly examined by a competent person.

Earthmoving machines used for lifting experience significant structural stress, particularly on boom welds, pivot pins and hydraulic components. Quick hitches, hooks and lifting attachments must be in serviceable condition to prevent catastrophic attachment release during lifting.

Our inspections cover the complete lifting arrangement including the base machine, boom and dipper, hydraulic systems, quick hitch, and all lifting attachments. We provide detailed reports that help you maintain compliance and safe operations.

Key Requirements

  • LOLER applies when earthmoving machines are used for lifting
  • Thorough examination at least every 12 months
  • Every 6 months if a man basket is used to lift persons
  • Quick hitches must be included in the examination
  • Lifting attachments require individual examination

Equipment We Inspect

Our engineer surveyors carry out LOLER thorough examinations for all types of earthmoving equipment used for lifting, including:

Excavators (tracked and wheeled)
Mini and micro excavators
Backhoe loaders (JCB 3CX type)
Skid-steer loaders (Bobcat type)
Wheeled loading shovels
Crawler cranes (excavator-based)
Lifting hooks and quick hitches
Lifting eye attachments
Pallet fork attachments
Man basket / work platform attachments
Vacuum lifters on excavators
Pipe and pile handling attachments

What We Check

Structural & Hydraulic

  • Boom and dipper arm welds and structural integrity
  • Chassis, turntable and undercarriage condition
  • Hydraulic cylinders, rams and hose integrity
  • Pivot pins, bushes and linkage wear
  • Quick hitch locking mechanism and indicators

Safety & Controls

  • Rated capacity indicator (if fitted)
  • Load charts and SWL markings
  • Lifting hook safety catch
  • Stabiliser and outrigger condition
  • Emergency stop and controls

Our Inspection Process

A systematic approach to earthmoving equipment inspection ensuring safety and compliance

1

Pre-inspection review of maintenance records and previous reports

2

Structural examination of boom, dipper, chassis and undercarriage

3

Hydraulic system assessment including cylinders, rams and hoses

4

Safety device and overload indicator testing

5

Attachment mounting and quick hitch mechanism verification

6

Digital report with photographs, defect grading and recommendations

Sectors We Work With

We provide earthmoving equipment inspections for operators across all sectors

Construction companies and groundworks contractors
Civil engineering firms
Demolition contractors
Plant hire companies
Utilities and infrastructure contractors
Quarries and aggregate producers

Why Choose LDN Inspection Services?

Specialist earthmoving equipment knowledge, clear reporting and reliable UK-wide service

Specialist earthmoving equipment engineer surveyors
All manufacturers and machine types covered
On-site inspections at construction sites and depots
Clear digital reports with photographic evidence
Automated reminder service for upcoming due dates
UK-wide coverage with fast turnaround

Earthmoving Equipment FAQs

Ready to Arrange Your Next Inspection?

Get in touch with our team today for a no-obligation quote and fast support.

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