Lifting operations are regulated under OHSA / Lifting Tackle Regulations. Cranes, hoists, slings, eyebolts — anything lifting a load — must be planned, inspected, and operated by competent persons. Non-compliance leads to dropped loads, injury, and prosecution.
What Lifting Tackle Regulations covers
- Cranes (mobile, tower, gantry)
- Forklift trucks
- Lifts and hoists
- MEWPs (also under Work at Height Regs)
- Slings, chains, shackles, eyebolts
- Anything used to lift loads or persons
Core duties
Strong, stable, suitable
Equipment must be of adequate strength and stability for each load, in the lighting conditions, on the ground available.
Positioned and installed safely
To minimise risks of equipment striking persons or objects.
Visible markings
Safe Working Load (SWL) marked on every lifting accessory.
Planning by competent person
Each lift planned in advance — load weight, lift path, ground bearing, slings configuration, communications.
Supervision
Each lift supervised by competent appointed person.
Thorough Examination
Lifting equipment must be examined by competent person:
- Before first use
- After installation or reassembly
- At least every 12 months (every 6 months for equipment used to lift persons)
- After exceptional circumstances (damage, modification)
Record keeping
- Report of every examination
- Defects logged and addressed before further use
- Records held by equipment owner
Lift plan
Typical lift plan includes:
- Load details (weight, dimensions, centre of gravity)
- Crane selection and configuration
- Site survey (ground, obstructions, overhead lines)
- Outrigger pads and ground bearing pressure
- Lift sequence
- Communications
- Emergency procedures
Common breaches
- Untested slings and accessories
- No lift plan
- Operator without appropriate qualification
- Crane outriggers on inadequate ground
- Lifting persons in non-certified equipment
MCFAR coordinates structural engineering with lift planning for heavy steel and modular installations.
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MCFAR GROUP has been delivering structural engineering, building, and plumbing services since 1998. Talk to our team about your build, retrofit, or renovation.
Request a QuoteFrequently Asked Questions
Do I need Lifting Tackle Regulations cover for forklift trucks?
Yes — forklifts are lifting equipment requiring thorough examination every 12 months.
Can general workers operate cranes?
No — operators require recognised qualification (SAQCC / TETA) for the crane type.