1.

Introduction to Lifting Operations

Definition and Types of Lifting Operations

Definition:
A lifting operation involves the lifting or lowering of a load using lifting equipment, including
any accessories used to attach or support the load.

Types:

 Manual lifting (by human effort)

 Mechanical lifting (using cranes, hoists, forklifts, etc.)

Example:
Using a tower crane to lift a steel beam to the third floor of a building under construction is a
mechanical lifting operation.

Legal Requirements and Industry Standards

These are rules and guidelines set by regulatory bodies to ensure lifting operations are carried out
safely.

Common Standards:

 LOLER (UK): Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998

 OSHA (USA): Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations
 PUWER: Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations

Example:
According to LOLER, all lifting equipment must be thoroughly inspected every 6 or 12 months,
depending on its use.

Roles and Responsibilities

Various personnel are involved in a lifting operation, and each has a specific role:

 Crane Operator: Operates the crane safely

 Signaler (Banksman): Communicates with the crane operator using signals
 Lifting Supervisor: Plans and oversees the lift
 Rigger: Attaches the load using slings and shackles

Example:
During the lifting of a concrete slab, the lifting supervisor plans the lift, the rigger connects the
slab to the crane hook, the signaler guides the operator using hand signals, and the crane operator
performs the lift.
 2. Lifting Equipment

Types of Cranes

Cranes are mechanical devices used to lift and move heavy loads in vertical and horizontal
directions.

Common Types:

 Mobile Crane: Mounted on trucks, easily moved around the site

 Tower Crane: Fixed to the ground, used in high-rise construction
 Overhead Crane (Bridge Crane): Installed inside factories or warehouses, runs along
ceiling tracks

Example:
A tower crane is used on a construction site to lift concrete panels to the upper floors of a high-
rise building.

Types of Lifting Gear

Lifting gear includes accessories used along with cranes to lift the load safely.

Examples of Lifting Gear:

 Slings: Made from wire rope, chain, or synthetic materials, used to wrap around or attach
to loads
 Shackles: U-shaped metal pieces used to connect slings to the load or crane hook
 Spreader Bars: Distribute the load evenly and prevent damage or tipping during lifting

Example:
A spreader bar is used along with two slings to safely lift a large steel frame without bending it.

Inspection and Maintenance of Lifting Equipment

Regular inspections ensure that lifting equipment is safe to use and free from defects.

Key Aspects:

 Daily Checks: Visual inspections for wear, cracks, corrosion, or deformation

 Scheduled Maintenance: Periodic thorough inspections (e.g., every 6 or 12 months as
per regulations)
 Record Keeping: All inspections and maintenance must be documented

Example:
Before using a wire rope sling, the rigger checks for broken wires or worn-out areas during the
daily inspection and reports any defects for replacement.
Of course, Shoaib! Here's the detailed explanation of "3. Lifting Accessories" with definitions
and one example for each point:

3. Lifting Accessories

Selection of Slings, Hooks, Chains, Wire Ropes

Definition:
Choosing the right accessory depends on the weight, shape, temperature, and environment of
the load.

Types:

 Slings: Available in chain, wire rope, synthetic (nylon or polyester), and webbing types
 Hooks: Used to attach loads; come with safety latches to prevent slipping
 Chains: Strong and durable; used for lifting heavy, rugged loads
 Wire Ropes: Made of steel wires twisted into strands, used for heavy-duty lifting

Example:
For lifting a heavy concrete block, a chain sling with a safety latch hook is selected because it
can handle rough edges and high weight.

Load Rating and Identification Tags

Definition:
All lifting accessories must have a visible identification tag that indicates:

 Working Load Limit (WLL)

 Serial Number
 Manufacturer details
 Date of last inspection

Purpose:
To ensure the accessory is used within its capacity and tracked for safety.

Example:
Before lifting a machine part, the rigger checks the sling’s tag and sees it has a WLL of 2 tons —
which is suitable since the load only weighs 1.5 tons.

Safe Use and Storage

Definition:
Proper handling and storage of accessories prevent damage and increase lifespan.

Guidelines:
  Do not drag slings on the ground
 Avoid sharp edges or chemicals that could damage the sling
 Store slings and accessories in a dry, clean, and designated area

Example:
After completing a lift, the rigger hangs the slings on a designated rack in the tool room
instead of leaving them on the ground, preventing moisture damage.

Absolutely, Shoaib! Here's a detailed explanation of Sections 4, 5, and 6 with definitions and
one practical example for each point:

4. Risk Assessment and Planning

Hazard Identification and Control Measures

Definition:
Identifying potential risks involved in a lifting operation and implementing steps to minimize or
eliminate them.

Control Measures Include:

 Using barriers/signs to keep unauthorized people away

 Assigning trained personnel
 Using tag lines to control loads

Example:
Before lifting a beam near a walkway, barriers are placed and a spotter is assigned to prevent
unauthorized access.

Load Weight Estimation and Center of Gravity

Definition:
Accurately estimating the load's weight and identifying the center of gravity ensures safe lifting
without tipping or imbalance.

Tools Used:

 Load charts
 Manufacturer specs
 Simple math for volume × density

Example:
While lifting a water tank, the team calculates the weight (volume × water density) and attaches
slings near the center of gravity to keep the load balanced.

Environmental Considerations (Wind, Terrain, Overhead Obstructions)

Definition:
Analyzing external conditions that can affect the safety of lifting operations.

Factors:

 High winds (especially for tall or wide loads)

 Uneven or soft ground (affects crane stability)
 Power lines or scaffolding

Example:
A mobile crane lift is postponed due to high wind speeds exceeding safe operating limits, as per
the crane’s wind chart.

5. Lifting Plans

Preparing Method Statements

Definition:
A step-by-step written procedure describing how the lift will be done safely, including
equipment, personnel, and safety controls.

Example:
The lifting supervisor writes a method statement for lifting a generator that includes the crane
type, slings used, and crew roles.

Selecting Appropriate Lifting Equipment

Definition:
Choosing the correct crane, slings, and accessories based on the load weight, dimensions,
height of lift, and terrain.

Example:
For a confined site with limited access, a compact mobile crane is chosen instead of a large
crawler crane.

Lifting Plan Documentation and Approvals

Definition:
All lifting operations (especially critical lifts) require a formal lifting plan, risk assessment, and
sign-off from the lifting supervisor or safety officer.

Example:
Before lifting a 10-ton air conditioning unit onto a hospital roof, the plan is reviewed and signed
by the project manager and safety officer.

6. Rigging and Slinging Techniques

Types of Slings and Hitch Configurations

Definition:
Different types of slings and hitch methods are used depending on the load’s size and shape.

Common Hitch Types:

 Vertical Hitch: Straight lift

 Choker Hitch: For tight gripping
 Basket Hitch: Wraps under load for balance

Example:
A basket hitch using webbing slings is selected to evenly lift a long steel pipe.

Sling Angles and Load Distribution

Definition:
The angle between slings and the vertical affects the tension in the sling — smaller angles
increase the load on slings.

Rule:
Keep sling angles above 45° when possible.

Example:
For lifting a platform, slings are adjusted to 60° angles to reduce stress and avoid overloading.

Hand Signals and Communication Methods

Definition:
Clear communication is critical — standardized hand signals or radios are used to direct crane
operators.

Example:
A signaler uses the “stop” hand signal to immediately halt the crane when a worker
unexpectedly enters the lift area.

Perfect, Shoaib! Here's a clear and detailed explanation of Sections 7, 8, and 9 of the Lifting
Operations course content with definitions and examples for each point:

7. Safe Operating Procedures

Pre-lift Checks

Definition:
A thorough inspection of equipment, load, and surroundings before starting the lift to ensure
everything is safe and in working condition.
Checks Include:

 Condition of slings, shackles, and crane

 Load weight and balance
 Area clearance and access paths

Example:
Before lifting a steel beam, the rigger inspects the wire rope sling for fraying and confirms the
crane has been recently serviced.

Load Securing and Stability

Definition:
Ensuring the load is properly attached and balanced to prevent shifting, tipping, or falling
during lifting.

Techniques:

 Using proper sling configurations

 Securing loose parts
 Centering the hook above the load's center of gravity

Example:
When lifting a generator, the team uses corner protectors and tensioned slings to keep the unit
steady and prevent rotation.

Controlled Lifting and Lowering

Definition:
Lifting and lowering the load slowly and steadily to avoid jerks, swinging, or sudden movement
that can cause accidents.

Guidelines:

 Avoid sudden starts/stops

 Maintain clear visibility
 Use tag lines if needed

Example:
While placing a heavy pipe on a support rack, the crane operator lowers it gradually while
guided by the signaler to avoid collision.

8. Communication and Signaling

Standard Hand Signals

Definition:
Pre-defined, universally recognized manual gestures used by the signaler (banksman) to
communicate with the crane operator.

Common Signals:

 Hoist/lower
 Stop/emergency stop
 Slew left/right
 Boom up/down

Example:
The signaler gives the “hoist” signal (arm extended upward, finger pointing up, making small
circles) to lift the load vertically.

Use of Radios and Other Communication Devices

Definition:
Radios or intercoms are used when hand signals aren't visible due to distance, obstacles, or poor
lighting conditions.

Rules:

 Use clear, short commands

 Confirm each instruction (e.g., "Copy that")
 Keep communication open during the entire lift

Example:
During a lift inside a large factory with poor visibility, the signaler gives instructions via two-
way radio to the crane operator.

Coordination Between Team Members

Definition:
Every team member (rigger, operator, signaler, supervisor) must understand the lift plan and
their role to avoid confusion or miscommunication.

Example:
Before lifting a steel tank, the team gathers for a pre-lift briefing to review the plan and agree
on hand signals and communication steps.

9. Emergency Procedures

Common Lifting Emergencies and How to Respond

Definition:
Unexpected situations such as load drop, swing, entrapment, or crane malfunction require
immediate, trained response.

Response Includes:

 Stopping the lift

 Alerting others
 Evacuating the area if needed

Example:
If a sling breaks mid-lift and the load starts to drop, the operator is trained to immediately stop
operations and lower the remaining load safely.

Equipment Failure and Rescue Operations

Definition:
In the event of crane failure or a stuck load, procedures must be in place for rescue, isolation,
and recovery without putting workers at risk.

Example:
If a mobile crane’s boom hydraulics fail, the area is cleared and the backup emergency team is
called to safely recover the load and inspect the crane.

Reporting Incidents and Near Misses

Definition:
All incidents, including near misses (when something almost went wrong), must be reported and
recorded for investigation and safety improvement.

Example:
After a load slightly swung close to scaffolding, the supervisor logs the near miss report,
discusses the incident in the safety meeting, and updates the lift plan.

You got it, Shoaib! Here's the final piece — Section 10: Practical Training — with clear
definitions and examples for each point:

10. Practical Training

Hands-on Operation of Lifting Equipment

Definition:
Participants physically operate cranes, hoists, slings, and other lifting gear under supervision to
develop real-world handling skills.
Includes:

 Operating different crane types

 Attaching and detaching loads
 Using accessories like shackles and slings

Example:
A trainee operates a mobile crane to lift a metal container under instructor supervision,
practicing load control and positioning techniques.

Conducting Supervised Lifts

Definition:
Carrying out a full lifting operation in a controlled, supervised setting to practice applying
safety procedures and communication skills.

Involves:

 Pre-lift briefing
 Assigning team roles (operator, rigger, signaler)
 Performing a safe lift from start to finish

Example:
During training, a group performs a mock lift of a concrete block using a tower crane, with the
trainer observing and guiding the team.

Equipment Inspection and Fault Reporting

Definition:
Learning how to inspect lifting equipment for signs of wear, damage, or malfunction, and how
to report faults correctly.

Steps Include:

 Visual and functional checks

 Using checklists
 Filling out inspection reports and tagging faulty equipment

Example:
A student notices frayed wires on a sling during inspection and fills out a fault report, tagging it
as “Do Not Use” and notifying the instructor.