LFT/General/TBT-LFT-025
Lift Briefing and Communication Protocol
Lifting Operations › General › Lift Briefing and Communication Protocol
Toolbox Talk
Lift Briefing and Communication Protocol
Clear communication between the crane operator, slinger, signaller, and lift supervisor is essential for every lifting operation. Miscommunication is a leading contributor to dropped loads, collisions, and workers being struck by moving loads. A structured lift briefing before every lift ensures that everyone understands their role, the plan, and the signals. This talk covers the briefing process and the communication protocols for lifting.
Key Hazards
Dropped loads from miscommunication between operator and signaller during the lift
Workers entering the exclusion zone because they were not briefed on the lift plan
Crane movements conflicting with other operations due to poor coordination
Radio failure leaving the signaller unable to communicate with the operator
Control Measures
- Conduct a lift briefing with all personnel involved before every lifting operation begins.
- Confirm the load weight, rigging arrangement, lift path, and landing position in the briefing.
- Agree the communication method — hand signals, radio, or both — before the lift commences.
- Use standard hand signals as defined in BS 7121 for all visual crane signal communication.
- Ensure only one designated signaller communicates with the crane operator during each lift.
- Test radios before each lift and carry a charged backup in case of primary radio failure.
- Include an agreed emergency stop signal that any person on site can give to halt the lift.
- Brief all nearby workers on the exclusion zone, lift timing, and load path before starting.
- Record the lift briefing attendees and key points in the lifting operations daily log.
Remember
- Conduct a lift briefing with all involved personnel before every lifting operation on site
- Agree the communication method and test radios before the lift commences each time
- Only one designated signaller may communicate with the crane operator during each lift
- Use standard hand signals as defined in BS 7121 for all visual crane communications
- Include an agreed emergency stop signal that any person can give to halt the lift immediately
- Record the briefing attendees and key points in the lifting operations daily log
Applicable Legislation: LOLER 1998 · BS 7121 (Safe Use of Cranes) · CDM Regulations 2015 · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
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