The UK’s Construction Plant-hire Association has issued a Technical Information Note on whether or not lifting eyes are classed as lifting accessories subject to the thorough examination.

A key element of the note states: “If the lifting eyes are able to be removed from the load, for example by unscrewing, they are classed as lifting accessories and must be thoroughly examined at intervals not exceeding the six months required by Regulation 9(3)(i) of the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER).”

“If the lifting eyes are permanently attached to the load, for example by welding, they are part of the load and do not require thorough examination. They do however need to be inspected at appropriate intervals under Regulation 6 of the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER).”