The Association of Loading and Elevating Equipment Manufacturers (ALEM) represents UK producers of loading bay and lifting equipment, including dock levellers, scissor lifts, and vehicle restraints. Working closely with government, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), BSI, and other standards bodies, ALEM promotes safe design, installation, and maintenance across the sector.
President at ALEM
In April 2025, ALEM held a roundtable session for members to review the revised EN1570-1:2024 standard – Safety requirements for lifting tables – Lifting tables serving up to two fixed landings. The discussion focused on the key changes following the revision and their implications for manufacturers. From 16 March 2026, only EN1570-1:2024 will offer a presumption of conformity, making awareness of the new standard essential for compliance.
ALEM’s Dock Leveller Working Group also reviewed EN1398:2009 and prepared a list of comments for CEN TC98/WG5 for its meeting in November 2025. ALEM also participated in the technical review meetings to ensure its members’ views were represented and considered during the revision process.
ALEM also hosted a members’ conference In October, providing an update on the EU Machinery Regulation. The event included progress from the editorial group developing the new guide, details of harmonised European standards, and the citation of standards in the Official Journal of the European Union under both the Machinery Directive and the Machinery Regulation.
Membership of ALEM is open to companies involved in the manufacture, supply, installation, or maintenance of lifting, loading, and elevating equipment. An Associate Membership option is also available for companies focusing primarily on installation and maintenance services.
Looking ahead to 2026, ALEM will continue consulting members on the revision of EN1398 and contribute to CEN TC98/WG5 meetings to share its expertise on the necessary updates. The association also plans to raise awareness of its role and the benefits of membership.
As a member of both the BMHF and the European Federation of Materials Handling (FEM), ALEM continues to play an active role in shaping key industry standards – helping members stay informed, compliant, and competitive in an increasingly safety-focused market.
ALEM
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