[RIGGER’S CORNER] THE BEST LAID PLANS GEOFF HOLDEN, CHIEF EXECUTIVE, LIFTING EQUIPMENT ENGINEERS ASSOCIATION (LEEA)
Good planning is the cornerstone of safe lifting. And for all but the simplest, routine lifting operations, a written plan is generally considered essential. However, whilst written plans have become more commonplace in recent years, the content often falls short of good practice or is only referred to if something goes wrong. T is is a pity because, when written and followed correctly, a plan provides control over the lift and signifi cantly reduces the risk of an accident.
To be eff ective, the plan should be available to all the key personnel involved, easily understood, and provide the detail that a trained person will need to carry out the operation. T e starting point should be a clear description of what the lifting operation is supposed to achieve. A risk assessment will also be required. On sites with standard procedures which control the risks arising from the hazards that are a permanent feature of the location, the plan should focus on any additional hazards associated with the lifting operation. Next comes the method of carrying out the operation. Essentially it is the sequence of events, starting with any preparation work. It goes without saying that the crane (and other equipment) must be suitable for the lifting operation. However, many accidents occur simply because the capacity of a crane was inadequate, or because a lack of space prevented outriggers from being fully deployed. T e load may need preparation before lifting starts. Although it may be better to treat the detail of such work as a separate operation, the need to do it should still be included as a stage in the plan. Similarly, the route the load is to take, and landing site, may need preparation. T e load may need to be
ESTABLISHED IN 1944, THE LIFTING EQUIPMENT ENGINEERS
ASSOCIATION (LEEA) has over 700 member companies worldwide and campaigns vigorously for higher standards of safety within the lifting industry. In addition to providing members with training and expert technical advice, the association works closely with organizations such as the Health and Safety Executive in the preparation of regulations and British, European and International standards.
For more information on the LEEA visit:
www.leeaint.com
orientated in the air or whilst lifting or lowering. T e method of doing so, and when, should be included. T e plan should provide a detailed list of the equipment and personnel involved. Adequate supervision is essential, particularly if two or more operatives are involved. T e method of communicating with a crane driver should also be defi ned. T e plan should be checked by the person in overall charge of the lifting operation. If satisfactory it should be given a reference number, signed and dated. Plans often have to be made in advance and based on assumptions. Anything likely to change therefore needs to be checked as and when the information is available. Any change required to the plan should go back to the appointed person for approval - and the change and date recorded. T e plan must be made available to everyone involved and it is good practice for them all to have a meeting just before the operation commences. T e plan should also include procedures to follow in the event of things going awry. In particular it should ensure that any decisions about changes go to the appropriate level of authority. One fi nal word of advice: if a lift is likely to be repeated at some point, consider taking photos for reference. It’s an easy way of adding value to future written plans. ❙
80 NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2013 WIRE ROPE EXCHANGE
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