The risk of a load falling or striking a person or object

Equipment must be positioned to reduce the risk of the load striking a person or the load drifting, falling freely or being released unintentionally so far as reasonably practicable.

Select the most appropriate lifting equipment for the task in hand. At no time must the safe working load (SWL) or working load limit (WLL) or number of persons figure be exceeded. If you don’t know the weight of the load, err on the side of caution.

Secure the load sufficiently (see item d), taking into consideration its’ weight, stability, shape etc. Put all of the items into a secure container or package, ensuring that liquid loads are in a sealed container, or by strapping the item securely onto a pallet if lifting points are not provided.

Inspect all lifting equipment before use and do not use any defective equipment or equipment showing wear and tear – TAKE THESE OUT OF USE.

Plan the lift sufficiently, putting it in writing where the lifts are complex or where the risks are significant.

So far as reasonably practicable, loads should not be lifted over people or an area that is occupied.

Where an overhead crane is used, loads should only be moved at crawl speed. Where there is a good view of the lifting operation, including the pick-up and touch-down positions, the person operating the overhead crane can also act as slinger and signaller, providing they are competent to fulfil all of these roles. They should not however carry out this operation whilst working on their own (lone working).

All those involved in the lift are entitled to give the emergency stop signal but only the banksman can give any other instruction.