Risk Assessment

Issues needing further consideration when completing a risk assessment for a lift:

1. How often will you be carrying out the lifting (would a permanent solution be more suitable?)
2. Where the equipment will be used - consider the environment in which you want to work and the impact on the equipment (further info)
3. Are there any limitations on use which are specified by the manufacturer or supplier of the equipment which may make its selection unsuitable for the task in hand?
4. The type of load being lifted, its weight, shape and what it consists of to ensure that the lifting equipment can manage the load.
5. If the lift could be unstable, can other working practices be introduced which could increase stability and minimise risks?
6. Would using different equipment minimise or entirely remove the risks?
7. The risk of a load falling or striking a person or object
8. The risk of the lifting equipment striking a person or some other object
9. The risk of the lifting equipment failing or falling over while in use
10. The risk of the lifting equipment trapping a person using the equipment
11. Ergonomic issues, taking into consideration the user(s) of the equipment
12. Do you need to consider access/egress?
13. Are there any issues to be considered about unauthorised access?
14. For lifting equipment used on working platforms, is there a need to remove edge protection and replace it as soon as possible after the lift?
15. Is there a need to consider edge protection whilst maintaining the lifting equipment?