LFT/Specific Lifts/TBT-LFT-015

Appointed Person and Lift Supervisor Roles

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Appointed Person and Lift Supervisor Roles

Toolbox Talk Record

Ref: TBT-LFT-015  |  Issue: 1  |  Date: March 2026
PresenterProject
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What?

  • 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.

Why?

Prevent incidentsPoorly planned or supervised lifting operations are a leading cause of fatal and serious injuries in construction.
Legal requirementLOLER 1998 requires lifting operations to be planned and supervised by competent persons at all times.
Clear accountabilityDefined 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
  • DON'T proceed with any lift without a documented lift plan
  • DON'T allow unqualified persons to act as Appointed Person or Lift Supervisor
  • DON'T deviate from the lift plan without formal review and approval
  • DON'T start lifting before the Lift Supervisor has completed the team briefing
  • DON'T reduce the exclusion zone to suit other site activities
  • DON'T ignore changing weather conditions that affect the planned lift
  • DON'T combine the AP and Lift Supervisor roles unless competence allows it
  • DON'T allow crane operators to self-plan lifts without AP involvement
  • DON'T skip the lift briefing because the team has done similar lifts before
  • DON'T continue a lift if any team member raises a safety concern

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