Method statement for mechanical lifting operations
A lifting-operation method statement should reflect the competent lift plan: load weight and centre of gravity, crane or lifting appliance, accessories, radius, ground conditions, route and landing area. Overturn, dropped loads, failed accessories, trapping and contact with structures or power lines are critical hazards. LOLER 1998 requires lifting operations to be properly planned by a competent person, appropriately supervised and carried out safely, with equipment thoroughly examined. Name the appointed roles and communication method, and confirm certificates and capacity for the actual configuration. Establish an enforced exclusion zone before lifting; never allow a suspended load over people, improvise lifting points or change the radius, equipment or ground set-up without the planner’s approval.
- ✓5 steps from preparation to completion
- ✓Covers: 3 key hazards and their controls
- ✓Permits: approved lift plan, crane or lifting permit where site rules require
In short
A method statement sets out how a task will be carried out safely, step by step: preparation, set-up, the work itself and completion, with the plant, permits, competence and supervision needed. It puts the controls identified in the risk assessment into a safe system of work.
What it must include
- ✓Task description, location and duration
- ✓Step-by-step sequence of works
- ✓Plant, equipment and materials
- ✓Permits and isolations required
- ✓Competence, training and supervision
- ✓PPE and emergency arrangements
You stay the duty holder: review the document for your site before work starts. SitePaper is a drafting tool, not a consultancy.