Contact Us

Lift SAFED Testing Services

Ensure Maximum Safety with Professional SAFED Testing

SAFED testing is a critical process used to assess the mechanical safety of lifts, particularly when a defect has been found during a LOLER inspection or when a lift has undergone a significant alteration or incident. At TJ Lift Solutions, we carry out SAFED supplementary testing in accordance with UK national standards, ensuring that all safety components are functioning correctly and that your lift is safe for ongoing use.

We support duty holders, facilities managers, and property owners across the UK in meeting their statutory responsibilities and ensuring their lift installations are in full compliance with current safety regulations.

What is SAFED Testing for Lifts?

SAFED stands for Safety Assessment Federation, and it provides guidelines for additional or supplementary testing when standard inspections are insufficient to verify the safe operation of a lift. SAFED testing is typically required when:

  • A serious defect is discovered during a LOLER thorough examination
  • The lift has been modified or refurbished
  • The lift has been involved in an accident or near miss
  • The lift is operating abnormally or showing irregular behaviour
  • A component has reached the end of its design life

These tests are sometimes referred to as Category 1 tests, brake tests, or supplementary lift safety tests, and they are designed to provide deeper insight into the operational safety and mechanical integrity of critical systems.

Why SAFED Testing Is Important

Unlike routine maintenance or servicing, SAFED testing goes beyond visual checks to actively measure the performance of specific lift components under load or in simulated failure scenarios. These tests are vital to:

  • Confirm the brake system can safely stop and hold the lift car
  • Assess overspeed governors and safety gears
  • Check buffer performance
  • Inspect suspension ropes and sheaves under stress
  • Validate performance of hydraulic safety valves and rupture devices
  • Ensure door locking mechanisms function correctly

SAFED testing is especially important in older lifts, or in lifts that have been repaired using non-OEM components, to ensure continued safe operation.

Lift Owner and Duty Holder Responsibilities

Under the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) and PUWER, lift owners and duty holders must ensure that any lift deemed to have a serious defect or safety concern is subject to supplementary testing before being returned to service.

You are also responsible for:

  • Acting on recommendations made by your competent person (LOLER examiner)
  • Ensuring the lift is not used until it has passed any required SAFED testing
  • Keeping full records of all testing, inspections, and remedial actions
  • Ensuring tests are carried out by a qualified and experienced lift engineer

Failure to comply could place building users at risk and lead to HSE enforcement, potential legal action, and voided insurance.

What TJ Lift Solutions Provides

We offer a complete SAFED testing service tailored to the lift type, age, and defect history. Our service includes:

  • On-site SAFED testing by experienced and qualified lift engineers
  • Brake torque testing and emergency stopping analysis
  • Functional testing of safety gear, buffers, and ropes
  • Data logging and real-time load testing (where required)
  • Detailed reporting with photographic evidence
  • Coordination with LOLER inspectors and independent surveyors
  • Immediate recommendations and remedial support if faults are found

All testing is conducted using calibrated tools and procedures in line with SAFED guidelines and British Standards, such as BS EN 81.

When Is SAFED Testing Required?

You may need SAFED testing if:

  • A LOLER report recommends supplementary testing
  • A component such as a brake, safety gear, or valve is suspected of underperformance
  • The lift has had a serious mechanical failure
  • The lift has been idle or out of service for an extended period
  • The lift has undergone a major modernisation or system upgrade

We also recommend SAFED testing as part of due diligence during property transactions or when taking over buildings with unknown lift maintenance history.

Frequently Asked questions

What is SAFED testing?

SAFED testing is a series of additional safety checks carried out on a lift when a serious defect has been identified or following a modification or incident. It ensures critical safety systems are functioning properly.

While not routinely required, SAFED testing becomes mandatory if a LOLER inspector recommends supplementary testing to verify lift safety.

LOLER inspections are visual and functional checks. SAFED tests go further by physically measuring performance—such as applying load to test brakes, governors, or safety mechanisms.

Only competent and qualified lift engineers with experience in supplementary testing should carry out SAFED procedures. TJ Lift Solutions is fully qualified to deliver this service.

If a lift fails SAFED testing, it must remain out of service until remedial action is taken. We can assist with identifying the fault, supplying parts, and completing any required repairs.

Yes. We issue a detailed SAFED test report, including results, observations, photos, and any corrective actions needed. This can be submitted to your LOLER examiner or insurer.

This depends on the complexity and number of components being tested. Most SAFED procedures can be completed within a single site visit.

Yes. When lifts are refurbished or modernised, SAFED tests are often carried out to confirm that key safety systems are still operating correctly after modification.

Generally, SAFED testing is more common in commercial and public settings. However, domestic lifts can also undergo supplementary testing if serious faults are found.

Absolutely. We can liaise directly with your existing competent person, independent surveyor, or insurer to ensure SAFED requirements are clearly communicated and resolved.

Talk to our Lift Specialists Today

Get in touch today for a no-obligation consultation or to arrange a site visit. We’re ready to support your lift project—on time, within budget, and to the highest standard.

Click here