Appointed Person and Lift Supervisor Roles

The Appointed Person (AP) is responsible for planning lifting operations and preparing lift plans.
The Lift Supervisor manages the lifting operation on the ground to ensure it follows the lift plan.
LOLER 1998 requires every lifting operation to be planned by a competent person.
The AP must have detailed knowledge of crane capacities, rigging, and lifting regulations.
The Lift Supervisor ensures the exclusion zone is maintained and communications are clear.
BS 7121 defines the duties and competence requirements for both roles in crane operations.
On complex or high-risk lifts, the AP and Lift Supervisor may be different individuals.
The AP must assess ground conditions, overhead hazards, and environmental factors before each lift.
The Lift Supervisor briefs the crane operator, slinger, and banksman before operations begin.
Both roles carry personal accountability — competence and authority must be clearly assigned.

Prevent incidents	Poorly planned or supervised lifting operations are a leading cause of fatal and serious injuries in construction.
Legal requirement	LOLER 1998 requires lifting operations to be planned and supervised by competent persons at all times.
Clear accountability	Defined roles ensure someone has authority and responsibility for safety at every stage of the lift.

Do

Don't

Ensure an Appointed Person prepares or reviews the lift plan for every lift
Confirm the Lift Supervisor is present and in control before the lift begins
Verify that both the AP and Lift Supervisor hold recognised competence certificates
Brief all lifting team members on the plan, signals, and emergency procedures
Check that the crane, accessories, and rigging match the lift plan requirements
Maintain the exclusion zone throughout the lifting operation without exception
Record the lift plan and any amendments in the site lifting file
Ensure the Lift Supervisor has authority to stop the lift if conditions change
Review the lift plan if wind, ground conditions, or loads differ from those planned
Carry out a post-lift debrief to capture lessons learned for future operations

See also: Lifting Operations Awareness (LOLER) | Lift Plan Requirements

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