UK farms need LOLER tests for telehandlers and lifting gear. But what about tractors? 

The answer depends on your particular tractor, and how you use it. The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment at Work Regulations 1998 (LOLER) apply to any work equipment that lifts or lowers a load, or a person — so, for equipment like telehandlers, forklifts, cranes and hoists, it’s clear the rules apply, and a regular Thorough Examination is compulsory.  

But for tractors, it’s a little less obvious.   

The HSE’s guidance on LOLER in agriculture makes it clear that using the three-point linkage to lift implements and machines does not normally come under the regulations. So you need to look at your tractor’s other features and uses, and whether it ever lifts things. 

The most obvious example — and by far the most common reason a tractor needs a LOLER Thorough Examination — is if it has a front-end foreloader. 

Roughly 30% of UK tractors need a LOLER Thorough Examination 

With farms’ growing need to diversify and get the most out of machinery investments, it’s no surprise loaders are so popular. But with that extra versatility comes the requirement for LOLER inspections. 

According to data from the Agricultural Engineers Association, the number of tractor loaders in the UK is more than a quarter of the total number of agricultural tractors sold. Other reports — especially from manufacturers with a strong presence among mixed and livestock farms and smallholders — put the proportion significantly higher. 

By law, every one of these tractors must have a regular LOLER Thorough Examination. Any accessories or attachments used for lifting need to be included, too.  

That test is separate to any regular maintenance, and it needs to give a clear, written Report of Thorough Examination, with an expiry date (often 12 months). It must be performed by a Competent Person with enough experience and knowledge — and, crucially, enough independence — to give a clear appraisal of the safety of the machine. Usually, this means you can’t do it in-house, and need a specialist examiner. 

LOLER requirements for tractors: what do you need to test? 

As you’ll see on our interactive guide to tractor LOLER and PUWER, the inspection requirements under LOLER apply to all the vehicle’s lifting-related parts.  

CFTS-accredited examiners follow a clear code of practice which confirms these parts are safe to use. The checklist is long and detailed, but broadly, it’s important to test: 

Controls 

Do they function properly? 

Are they securely mounted? 

Are they clearly marked? 

Are the cables and linkages free from damage and wear?  

Load charts and rating plates 

Are they present? 

Are they attached securely? 

Are they clear and easy to read? 

Do they include any attachments you use? 

Hydraulics 

Do they move in a controlled, even way? 

Are they free from damage, scoring and leaks? 

Are rams and hoses in good repair? 

How worn are frame levelling and stabilisers? 

Mounting plate 

Is it structurally sound? 

Is it free from corrosion or other damage? 

How secure are the locking bolts or pins? 

Is there an acceptable amount of wear? 

Loader arms 

Do they operate in a smooth, safe way? 

Are they structurally sturdy and secure? 

Do they remain safe through the full range of extension and movement? 

Are pivot points free from excessive wear? 

Forks / tines  

Do they meet ISO 5057 standards for wear? 

Are they free from cracks, damage, deformities and modifications? 

Are locators and end stops effective and undamaged? 

Bucket / attachments 

Does it work smoothly and safely? 

Is it safe throughout its full range of movement? 

Is it mounted securely? 

Is it free from damage, distortion, and cracks?

Importantly, lifting accessories and removable attachments are usually prone to more stress and wear than other parts, and there’s usually a high risk if they fail. As a result, the LOLER rules are slightly different: they need to be checked at least twice a year — even if that’s more often than the tractor they’re used with. 

And if you ever lift or lower people, for example with an access platform or safety cage, that also increases the frequency of your inspections. This applies even if it’s very occasionally. 

Remember: PUWER applies to tractors too 

Strictly speaking, examining these lifting parts might satisfy the letter of the law — but only for LOLER. Tractors are also work equipment, so they also fall under the wider requirements of the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER).  

One key part of PUWER is that you need to confirm the whole machine is safe to use. And you’ll notice that none of the checks above test — for example — the steering, the brakes, the tyres, or other parts that are essential for safety.  

That goes double if you use your tractor on the public road. Tractors may be exempt from MOT, but you still need to be sure they’re safe. 

At CFTS, we know most farmers and agricultural engineers want to be sure a Thorough Examination is truly thorough — and that the tractor is safe to use — without arranging two separate inspections. That’s why our procedural code doesn’t just stop at LOLER; we also cover all the aspects you’ll need to meet your duties under PUWER. 

For example, a CFTS-accredited examiner will always test: 

Wheels — including assemblies, bearings, and lock nuts 

Tyres — specification, fitting, wear, damage, and bonding 

Brakes — hydraulics, pneumatics, pedals, levers, linkages, and operation 

Safety systems — alarms, warnings and interlocks, and mirrors 

Structural fastenings — for axles, fluid reservoirs, battery and more 

Chassis — ruling out cracking and damage, inspecting welds and stress points 

Traction system — prime mover and exhaust; emissions or battery if needed 

Seat and mountings — secure and free from excess damage and wear 

Seat restraint — functional and damage-free; essential in case of tipping 

Counterweight — secure, undamaged fastenings to prevent sudden failure 

A defect with any one of these parts could cause a serious accident, risking your operator… and potentially, if you can’t prove it was tested and safe, your whole farm business too. The HSE has a 96% conviction rate, and fines run into millions of pounds.

Simplify LOLER and PUWER with a CFTS examiner 

Working with a CFTS agricultural specialist takes the worry out of LOLER and PUWER compliance, covering your tractor, and any other lifting equipment you use.  

You’ll have a truly independent Competent Person, who’s well placed to tell you whether your tractor needs a Thorough Examination, and to ensure your equipment and accessories have the most appropriate inspection schedule. They can also help you to stay on top of your renewals, and give you digital access to your Reports of Thorough Examination, all in one place. 

If you have any questions, your local CFTS member will be happy to help. To find them, use our postcode search, and pick “Agriculture” from the “Select Industry” dropdown box.