Is a pallet a lifting accessory or part of the load being lifted?

Posted on February 27, 2015

This might seem like a bit of a trick question but it does matter.

If the pallet is thought to be a lifting accessory, it would be subject to LOLER regulations and as such, require thorough, six-monthly examinations (which is much more onerous than the pre-use checks, done by the operative, to assess the suitability of the equipment).

On the other hand, if the pallet is considered to be part of the load, the only requirement would be that it meets the maintenance and fitness for purpose requirements included in PUWER.

Just thinking…

After asking the question in the office, the general consensus was that because the pallet is lifted from underneath, it must be part of the load… But this got us thinking even more – what about when using a stillage?

Following a team debate, we’ve come to the vague conclusion that whether using a pallet, or a stillage – if it is lifted from below, the equipment is part of the load BUT if it’s lifted from above, then the equipment becomes a lifting accessory.

How about this for another consideration – if the stillage has lugs on the side, what then?

We would really like to hear our Members’ opinions – have your say by emailing [email protected] or by submitting an enquiry.