Lift Planning

Lift Planning is an important part of any rigging activity and must be taken seriously before a load is lifted as it will assist in a safe movement of the load and ensure that correct practices and procedures are adhered to.

The ASME P30.1 Standard has been referenced in compiling this section as it is one of the most recognised standards in North America, the standard states its intent is to     

(a) prevent or minimize injury, and provide for the protection of life, limb, and property by offering guidance for planning efforts that enhance the safety of load handling activities

(b) provide guidance to work site personnel, equipment owners, employers, users, and others concerned with or responsible for the safety of load handling activities

(c) guide governments and other regulatory bodies in the development, promulgation, and enforcement of appropriate safety directives

Definitions

Some important definitions the standard uses are as follows;

dynamic load: forces introduced into the LHE as a result of change in motion.

lift: to move a load vertically or horizontally with the LHE.

lift plan: information and/or instruction, written or verbal, used in support of a load handling activity.

load handling equipment (LHE): equipment used to move a load vertically or horizontally.

qualified person: a person who, by possession of a recognized degree or certificate of professional standing in an applicable field, or by extensive knowledge, training, and experience, has successfully demonstrated the ability to solve or resolve problems relating to the subject matter and work.

shall: term used to indicate that a rule is mandatory and must be followed.

should: term used to indicate that a rule is a recommendation, the advisability of which depends on the facts in each situation.