Lifting Plan Templates — LOLER-Compliant Lift Planning for UK Construction
Create comprehensive, LOLER-compliant lifting plans with AI assistance. RAMS AI guides you through equipment selection, load calculations, exclusion zones, communication procedures, and safety requirements.
What a Lifting Plan Covers
- Lift description – what is being lifted, weight, dimensions, centre of gravity, and rigging arrangements
- Equipment selection – crane type, capacity, configuration, radius, and sling specifications
- Load calculations – gross load, deductions, capacity checks, and load radius charts
- Ground conditions – bearing pressure, outrigger positions, mats, and ground assessment
- Exclusion zones – areas beneath and around the lift that must be kept clear
- Communication procedures – signals, radio channels, and roles of banksman, slinger, and crane operator
- Environmental factors – wind speed limits, visibility conditions, and weather monitoring
- Emergency procedures – actions in the event of equipment failure, power loss, or unexpected load shift
LOLER 1998 — Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations
Under LOLER 1998, every lifting operation must be properly planned by a competent person, appropriately supervised, and carried out safely. Regulation 8 requires that every lifting operation is planned so that it is carried out safely and in accordance with the plan.
- LOLER 1998 Regulation 8 – every lifting operation must be properly planned by a competent person
- LOLER 1998 Regulation 9 – equipment must be positioned and installed to minimise risk
- LOLER 1998 Regulation 10 – thorough examination and inspection requirements
- PUWER 1998 – suitability and maintenance of equipment
- BS 7121 – Code of Practice for safe use of cranes
- HSE L113 – Safe Use of Lifting Equipment (Approved Code of Practice)
How It Works
- Describe the Lift – Enter what is being lifted, its weight, dimensions, and travel path
- Select Equipment – Specify the crane type, capacity, boom length, and below-the-hook equipment
- Assess the Site – Record ground conditions, outrigger positions, and exclusion zones
- Define Procedures – Document the sequence of operations, communication, and environmental limits
- Review and Export – Review the completed lifting plan and export a professional PDF
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a lifting plan?
- A lifting plan is a documented procedure required under LOLER 1998 for all lifting operations. It covers equipment selection, load calculations, rigging, ground conditions, exclusion zones, and emergency plans.
- When is a lifting plan required?
- A lifting plan is required for every lifting operation, regardless of size or complexity, under LOLER Regulation 8.
- Who can prepare a lifting plan?
- A lifting plan must be prepared by a competent appointed person with the necessary knowledge, training, and experience.
- What regulations govern lifting operations?
- The primary regulations are LOLER 1998 and PUWER 1998. BS 7121 provides the Code of Practice for cranes, and HSE L113 gives further guidance.
- Does RAMS AI support lifting plan creation?
- Yes. RAMS AI provides a guided workflow for creating LOLER-compliant lifting plans with AI assistance and professional PDF export.