Site Management · Mandatory · Construction
Lifting Plan
The Lifting Plan documents the methodology for a specific lifting operation, including the load weight, centre of gravity, crane selection, rigging arrangement, ground conditions, exclusion zones, and communication procedures. Under LOLER 1998, every lifting operation must be properly planned by a competent appointed person. The plan must be briefed to all personnel involved before the lift commences.
Last reviewed: 29 March 2026 — This guide reflects UK law as of this date. LOLER 1998 remains current with no amendments enacted as of 29 March 2026. Next scheduled review: 29 March 2027.
1. The Lift Plan — Planning Before the Hook Leaves the Ground
The lift plan is the documented evidence that LOLER's requirement for proper planning has been fulfilled. It describes a specific lift — the load, equipment, method, ground conditions, exclusion zone, roles, and emergency procedure. The plan must be produced before the lift, not during it.
The Appointed Person must assess all variables: load weight, crane capacity at radius, ground bearing capacity, overhead hazards, wind conditions, and adjacent workers or structures.
No lift should begin before the Appointed Person has confirmed the lift plan is current and conditions match
Conditions change between plan preparation and lift day: ground after rain, wind speed, load weight may differ. The AP must confirm on the day of the lift that conditions match the plan — a verification that the planning is still valid.
2. Lifting Plan — Key Content
| Element | Content |
|---|---|
| Load description | What is being lifted. Weight (confirmed by weighing or engineering calculation — not estimated). Centre of gravity. |
| Crane details | Make/model. Max capacity at operational radius. LOLER exam current. Outrigger configuration. |
| Rigging | Lifting accessories used. SWL of each. Rigging configuration. Attachment points on load. |
| Radius and capacity | Operational radius. Load radius curve. Confirmed: capacity at radius >= load weight. Derate for radius and jib. |
| Ground conditions | Ground bearing capacity confirmed. Crane mats/outrigger pads. Underground voids, services, basements. |
| Exclusion zone | Dimensions. Control method: barriers, banksmen. All personnel cleared before lift-off. |
| Overhead hazards | Power lines: identified, distance confirmed, or made dead. Adjacent structures. |
| Wind speed limit | Maximum for this lift. Monitoring method. Action if limit approached. |
| Roles | AP. Crane operator. Slinger/signaller (CPCS A40). Communication method. |
| Emergency procedure | Load drop. Crane failure. Incapacitation of operator. |
3. Common Mistakes
Load weight estimated rather than confirmed
The most dangerous error in lift planning. Underestimated weight means the crane may exceed its rated capacity. Weight must be confirmed by weighing, manufacturer data, or structural engineer calculation. 'About 5 tonnes' is not a basis for a lift plan.
Inadequate ground assessment for mobile crane
Overturning due to ground failure is a well-documented cause of fatalities. Outrigger point loads can be very high. The assessment must consider bearing capacity, underground voids, backfilled excavations, slope, and retaining structures. Crane mats distribute load but cannot compensate for inadequate ground.
No wind speed limit or no monitoring
Wind significantly affects capacity and load stability. The plan must specify the maximum wind speed for the load type. An anemometer is required. The AP must have authority to stop the lift if the limit is approached.
Plan not updated for scope changes
A different load, radius, ground condition, or rigging configuration means the original plan is no longer valid. The AP must review and update the plan before the amended lift proceeds.
No qualified slinger/signaller
The person attaching the load and communicating with the operator must hold a current CPCS A40 qualification. An unqualified worker is not competent regardless of experience. The plan must name the slinger/signaller and confirm their qualification.
4. Frequently Asked Questions
Who can act as the Appointed Person?▾
A competent person with comprehensive crane knowledge. Typically holds CPCS A61 qualification. Responsible for producing or approving the plan, supervising the lift, and confirming conditions. For complex or critical lifts, a dedicated AP specialist is required. The AP must be on site for complex lifts — not available by phone.
When is a lift plan not required?▾
LOLER requires ALL lifting operations to be planned. The complexity of the plan is proportionate to the risk. Routine repetitive lifts (regular concrete placements) can be managed under a standing lift plan confirmed daily within defined parameters. Complex or critical lifts always require a specific written plan.
What is a critical lift?▾
There is no single statutory definition. Industry indicators include: greater than 75% of rated capacity; lifts over live plant, occupied areas, or roads; tandem crane lifts; lifts of persons; lifts in confined spaces; unusual loads; and lifts near overhead power lines. Critical lifts require more detailed planning, AP involvement, and possibly structural engineer input.
Does a MEWP need a lift plan?▾
Yes — MEWPs are subject to LOLER. The plan covers: ground conditions (soft ground, slopes, excavation proximity); overhead hazards; wind speed; operator qualification (IPAF PAL); pre-use inspection (LOLER current); and specific hazards. Less complex than a crane plan but must address the key risks.
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Construction Suite walks you through every required section with a guided Q&A — built to LOLER 1998 — and generates a professionally formatted document in minutes.
Get started freeThis guide is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, regulations change and individual project circumstances vary. Construction Suite is a trading name of Xzist Digital Ltd, registered in England and Wales.