Do I Need a Lifting Plan

Introduction

Whether you’re lifting a steel beam on a construction site or relocating machinery within a warehouse, any lifting operation carries risk. That’s why one of the most important steps before beginning any lift is ensuring you have a proper lifting plan in place. At Complete Lifting Services, safety is at the heart of every job we undertake — and a well-structured lift plan is central to that.

What is a Lifting Plan?

A lifting plan is a written document that outlines how a lifting operation will be carried out safely. It includes:

A risk assessment identifying potential hazards
A method statement detailing how the lift will be performed
Any drawings or photographs of the site or lifting setup
A schedule of lifts if multiple lifts are planned

This isn’t just a formality — it’s a critical part of ensuring every lifting operation is thoroughly planned and all foreseeable risks are addressed.

Is a Lifting Plan a Legal Requirement?

While British Standards such as BS7121-1:2016 (Code of Practice for the Safe Use of Cranes) are not laws themselves, they are widely recognised as the industry benchmark for best practice. In the event of an accident, failing to meet these standards could be a serious liability.

Under BS7121-1:2016, a lifting plan is required for every crane or lifting operation — whether it’s a one-off lift or part of a routine job. If you are using a crane, forklift, excavator or any lifting equipment that involves a change in height, a safe system of work that includes a lifting plan must be in place.

Who is Responsible for the Lifting Plan?

The lifting plan must be created by an appointed person — someone with the appropriate experience and understanding of lifting operations. This individual takes responsibility for planning the lift, assessing the risks, and ensuring that all safety measures are in place before the operation begins.

Why It Matters

Besides the clear safety benefits, having a lifting plan also:

Demonstrates due diligence in case of an incident
Helps to coordinate teams more efficiently
Ensures compliance with health and safety regulations
Reduces delays and mistakes during lifting operations

A well-prepared lifting plan is a practical tool that improves job site safety and performance.

Conclusion

If your project involves any kind of lifting operation — big or small — a lifting plan isn’t just good practice, it’s essential. Following the guidance in BS7121-1:2016 and having a well-documented lift plan will protect your team, your equipment, and your reputation.

At Complete Lifting Services, we support every lift with proper planning, expert guidance, and a commitment to safety. If you need assistance with creating a lifting plan or managing a lifting operation, get in touch with our experienced team.