Lift Planning & Crane Operations
Pre-lift planning, critical lifts, test lifts, pick and carry, dynamic loading, boom deflection, operational techniques, and duty cycle work.
- Describe the lift planning process and critical lift requirements
- Explain pre-lift checks, test lifts, and verification procedures
- Identify proper hoisting, swinging, and boom operation techniques
- Understand pick-and-carry operations and travel lift requirements
- Recognize dynamic loading, shock loads, and side loading hazards
Leçon 1
The Lift Planning Process & Critical Lifts
Every Lift Requires a Plan
Before any crane lift, the operator and lift team must know the essential information: load weight, pick and landing locations, operating radius at both points, boom configuration, rigging requirements, and potential hazards. The complexity of the plan depends on the complexity and risk of the lift.
What Is a Critical Lift?
A critical lift is any lift that exceeds a defined percentage of the crane's rated capacity (typically 75-80%, depending on company policy) or involves special hazards that require additional planning. Examples include:
- Lifts exceeding 75% of rated capacity
- Lifts near power lines
- Multi-crane (tandem) lifts
- Personnel hoisting
- Lifts over occupied buildings or public areas
- Lifts with limited clearance
- Lifts involving hazardous materials
Critical Lift Plan Required
Critical lifts require a written lift plan reviewed by the lift director. The plan must document the crane configuration, load weight, rigging, radius at all points, ground conditions, hazards, personnel roles, and emergency procedures. Verbal plans are not sufficient for critical lifts.
The Lift Director's Role
The lift director is responsible for overall lift planning and coordination. This person ensures:
- The lift plan is complete and communicated
- Personnel are qualified for their roles
- Equipment is adequate and properly configured
- Hazards are identified and controlled
- The lift proceeds according to plan
What Must Be Known Before Lifting
Before every lift, the operator must verify:
| Information | Source |
|---|---|
| Load weight | Drawings, tags, calculations - never estimate |
| Center of gravity | Engineering data or trial lift |
| Rigging configuration | Lift plan and qualified rigger |
| Pick and landing radius | Measurement or range diagram |
| Boom configuration | Load chart match verification |
| Hazards | Site survey and pre-lift briefing |
Every lift requires planning - know the load weight, radius, rigging, and hazards before lifting. Critical lifts (over 75% capacity or with special hazards) require a written lift plan reviewed by the lift director. Never estimate load weight - use drawings, tags, or calculations.