When operators hear the term lift plan, some may roll their eyes while others just start working to get it done, so what’s the big deal about them anyway? While Lift Planning can be a complex task, a standard lift plan should not be daunting.
At Crane Tech we teach that even the most standard lift needs a simple, documented lift plan to make sure the lift happens safely and within the limits of the equipment and personnel. Why? Because the adage, “failing to plan, is planning to fail,” holds true in material handling operations. If you have a documented lift plan that has been shared with the crew it’s almost like having an insurance policy that the lift will go smoothly.
An accident is an alternative scenario that no one wants to think about. You never want to have an investigator asking questions, such as load weight and radius and the operator responding with approximations. Wouldn’t it be better to be able to hand over a written lift plan?
The Basics Of A Standard Lift Plan
Operators should at least review and document:
- Boom length or boom angle
- Radius
- Gross capacity
- Net load weight
- Travel path (i.e. proximity to immovable objects, powerlines, workers in the area)
If any one of these items creates a concern, such as the weight coming close to the capacity, then a more detailed evaluation would be necessary. These parameters should be part of a comprehensive crane and rigging program that outlines when a more detailed/critical lift plan is needed.
What About The LMI?
Relying on the crane’s computer is NOT the answer either. Newer machines may have event recorders that tell the boom length, boom angle, radius, gross weight and net load weight on the hook for each and every lift. Supervisors and owners may now download every lift at the end of the day to see if their operators are indeed following proper protocol.
The Gift That Keeps On Giving
Lift plans can also be the gift that keeps on giving, helping to educate and create a history for future lifts. Having access to written records can help when planning lifts and a review of plans may show gaps that need to be corrected.
Crane Tech’s goal is to make sure the equipment, load, and personnel all make it through without damage that impacts lives or future lifts—a commitment we take very seriously. Should you need lift planning assistance or training, comment below, call or email us today. Remember, Safety through Education is more than just our motto it’s our guiding principle.