Case Study 104: Insufficient Lift Plan. Not Fit for Validation
Incident Overview
A Minifor hoist lift plan was presented on site for validation during lifting operations. The document appeared structured but lacked critical technical detail required for a safe and controlled lift.
The plan included generic statements such as “inspect equipment,” “attach load,” and “proceed with lift,” but did not define how the load would be rigged, controlled, or safely executed in real conditions.
No detailed drawings, rigging configurations, or load control methods were provided. Despite this, the plan was considered acceptable for use on site.
What Went Wrong
Lift plan relied on generic method statements, not specific methodology
No rigging configuration or sling arrangement defined
No drawings or visual references for the lift setup
No load path or landing sequence described
No defined exclusion zone layout or control measures
Communication plan vague and incomplete
No contingency planning for abnormal situations
Plan not detailed enough to be validated or challenged
Key Lessons Learned
A lift plan must describe the exact lift, not a general process
Generic statements do not control real risks
If a method cannot be visualised, it cannot be executed safely
Validation requires detail, not assumptions
A poor lift plan creates unsafe decisions on site
Safety Recommendations
Ensure all lift plans include clear drawings and rigging configurations.
Define exact lifting sequence, load path, and landing procedure.
Specify lifting accessories and connection methods.
Detail exclusion zones and communication systems.
Include contingency plans for abnormal situations.
Reject any lift plan that cannot be clearly understood and visualised.
Incident Source
Real site documentation. Minifor hoist lift plan reviewed on UK construction site (2026).
Image evidence shows a generic, non-specific lift plan lacking technical detail.
Regulatory Mapping
● LOLER Reg. 8 – Lifting operations must be properly planned.
● LOLER Reg. 9 – Planning must be carried out by a competent person.
● PUWER Reg. 4 – Equipment and systems must be suitable for use.
● PUWER Reg. 11 – Risks must be controlled with proper systems of work.
● BS 7121-1 – Lift plans must be specific, detailed, and clearly communicated.
Key Point
If the lift plan is generic, the risk is real.
Wolf Lifting Dynamics – Safe Lifting UK | www.wolflifting.uk | Case Study 102
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Case Study 104: Insufficient Lift Plan. Not Fit for Validation
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