Rank: Forum user 
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We have employees use pneumatic swaging tools. These are not extremely heavy, but not very light particularly when using for several hours per day and so could pose problems if used for long periods. We have fitted counterbalance units that allow the tool to be suspended at the right height, and take the weight of the tools off the operator, and work extremely well.
Are these counterbalance units classed as lifting equipment and come under LOLER and so need statutory inspection?
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Rank: Forum user
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Cooper,
no, I don't consider that they wouldnt come under LOLER and wouldnt need inspecting, on the basis they dont actually lift, rather than adjust the height of the tool. Same argument as with the barbers chair (see previous posts?). However, they would come under PUWER so would need maintenance, checks etc.
Holmezy
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Rank: Super forum user 
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Intersting.........as i was asked the same question a few weeks ago & decided LOLER was relevant
Ther load (tool) is suspended entirely on the "wire" of the unit so if it failed it would drop its load.
However I'm not an expert & would be happy if someone could convince me I'm wrong.
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Rank: Forum user
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I suppose it would depend on the type of counterbalance device we are talking about!
A thorough examination is not going to be onerous in most counterweight equipment I have come across ( wire, pulleys and a weight) and in some cases the wire, weight and equipment could even be classed as the load!
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Rank: Forum user
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The units are similar to a fall arrest wire, with the wire and spring mechanism inside a casing. The tension can be adjusted to compensate for the weight of the tool suspended.
I thought LOLER may apply, but this would mean having it put on the register and statutory inspections etc.
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Rank: Super forum user
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Does that mean old fashioned sash windows would come under LOLER. I think PUWER would be more applicable for the use you have.
Phil
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Rank: Forum user
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Sash windows have the mechanism built in as part of the window, wheras the device I am using is separate unit employed to hold a tool. Again, not sure whether LOLER would apply
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Rank: Super forum user
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Th ultimate answer would be to contact the company that normally carried out your LOLER inspection. There does seem the need to clarify what does and doesn't come under LOLER as there seems to be lots of confusion on the matter, if the regs aren't clear.
There must be a definitive list someone has produced that lists what is and isn't covered. i always to tend to think of lifting equipment in terms of cranes shackle strops eyebolts etc.
Is there any information supplied with the counter balance units to state they come under LOLER or any maintenance required on them or any other information relating to being manufactured to specific regs. contact the equipment manufacturer.
Phil
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Rank: Forum user
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Further to my last post,
I don't consider the mechanism to be subject to LOLER as its main purpose is to suspend and counterbalance, ie not lift. I'd compare it to a "see-saw". It doesnt so much lift and "counter balance" or suspend and thats not subjetc to LOLER........is it?
Clear as mud? and now its Friday!!!!
Holmezy
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Rank: Forum user
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Friday and I'm getting excited.........
should have read;
It doesnt so much lift, RATHER "counter balance" or suspend and thats not subjetc to LOLER........is it?
Apologies all round.
Holmezy
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