 Every successful steel erection project depends on teamwork and careful planning. Whether hoisting structural members, rebar cages, or bundles of deck, every lift includes several moving parts. When that coordination slips, even small details can lead to unnecessary risk. Pre-lift planning is one of the best tools we have to ensure safe and efficient operations. It brings operators, riggers, and ironworkers to the same table to review the load, ground conditions, and the lift path. By talking through each step, crews can catch oversights early and align on responsibilities, communication, and stop-work authority. As highlighted in Spring 2024 issue of Connector, lift directors play a vital role in this process, but effective lift planning is truly a team effort. When every person involved understands the “why” behind the plan, they’re more likely to speak up, double-check, and support one another in maintaining control of the lift. Start with the plan, not the lift. Before a pick is made, take time to review the scope, the lift sequence, and who’s responsible for each role; operator, signalperson, and rigger. Use this discussion to verify the crane configuration, rigging method, and site layout. Verify load weight and center of gravity. Include all components (beam, hardware, rigging, and lifting devices). Use approved drawings or field measurement to determine accurate load weights and balance points to prevent side-loading or drifting. Verify Crane Capacity. Ensure the load is within the crane’s capacity at the maximum lift radius required for the operation. If the load is more than 75% of the crane’s capacity, or the lift requires two cranes, it will be considered a “critical lift” and a detailed plan will be required. Inspect rigging and lifting devices. Before each lift, visually inspect slings, shackles, and hooks for wear, deformation, or missing identification. Tag out and replace any questionable gear immediately. Evaluate ground conditions and crane setup. Confirm outriggers are fully supported on stable and level ground. Assess soil type, compaction, and potential voids. Crane pads should distribute load pressure evenly and be sized to keep ground bearing pressures within the soil’s safe limits. Crews should avoid setting up near trenches, utilities, or recently backfilled areas, and should re-inspect pads or mats as loads and weather conditions change. Stable ground is the foundation of a safe lift. Identify and clear lift paths. Walk the load path together to locate and mark any potential obstructions like other trades, power lines, unfinished steel, or equipment. Establish clear exclusion zones to keep personnel out of swing areas. Clarify communication methods. Assign one qualified signalperson per lift and confirm hand or radio signals. Eliminate noise and distractions. Everyone involved should know who gives the “stop” command and how it will be communicated. Conduct a pre-lift meeting or toolbox talk. Even a short huddle reinforces the plan, weather conditions, wind limits, and emergency procedures. Encourage questions and confirm each person understands their role. Review stop-work authority. Make it clear that any team member (regardless of position) has the right and responsibility to stop the lift if something changes or doesn’t look right. Document and learn. Record lift details, observations, and lessons learned. Use these notes to improve future lift plans and share best practices across crews. A solid pre-lift plan isn’t just paperwork; it’s a collaboration tool that strengthens communication and confidence across the crew. When we plan together, we lift smarter, safer, and stronger. Resources: OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart CC – Cranes & Derricks in Construction OSHA 1926.1402 – Ground Conditions OSHA 1926.1419 – Signals and Communication DICA USA – Ground Conditions & Outrigger Support This Safety Flash was contributed by SEAA’s Safety & Education Committee. It’s designed to keep members informed about ongoing safety issues and to provide suggestions for reducing risk. Best practices are gathered from a variety of sources. They may be more or less stringent than individual corporate policies and are not intended to be an official recommendation from SEAA. Always get approval and direction from your company officers on any new practice or procedure as these best practices may not work for all situations.
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