A heavy lift is one of the highest-risk activities on an industrial or construction site, and the margin for error is thin. The lifts that go wrong are rarely the result of one big mistake — they’re usually a small planning gap that compounds under load.

Before the Lift: Planning and Site Prep

• Confirm ground-bearing capacity at the crane’s exact set-up position, not just “somewhere near the load”
• Verify the lift radius and capacity chart match the actual load weight, including rigging
• Clear and barricade the lift zone and swing radius before equipment arrives
• Confirm the communication method between operator, rigger, and site supervisor

During the Lift: What Should Be Happening On-Site

• A single point of communication directing the lift — not multiple people giving instructions
• Constant visual or radio contact between the operator and the signal person when the load isn’t in the operator’s direct line of sight
• No personnel under a suspended load at any point
• Weather conditions checked against the equipment’s rated wind limits, not just “it looks fine”

Operator and Equipment Standards Worth Verifying

• Operator certification current and specific to the equipment class being used
• Equipment maintenance and inspection records up to date
• Rigging gear rated for the load and inspected before use, not assumed fit for purpose

A Quick Pre-Lift Checklist You Can Use

1. Load weight confirmed, including rigging
2. Ground conditions checked at the exact crane position
3. Lift zone cleared and barricaded
4. Operator certification verified
5. Communication plan agreed before the first lift of the day