Case Study 79: Banksman Harassed Mid-Lift

Incident Overview

While offloading a full lorry of reinforcement steel, a banksman was repeatedly distracted and harassed by the steel foreman. During an active lift, the foreman physically touched and pinched the banksman, undermining concentration and authority.

The incident was reported. The foreman received a “yellow card” and was removed from site for one day. He returned the following day. The banksman refused to return to the site due to lack of confidence in site management’s response.

What Went Wrong

Harassment was allowed during a live lifting operation. Site management failed to recognise that distraction during lifting is a safety-critical issue, not a behavioural inconvenience. The fact that the management allow the worker/foreman to come back the next day is a safety risk factor for further lifting operations.

Key Lessons Learned

Distraction during lifting is a serious hazard

Harassment compromises safety and authority

Weak management response enables repeat behaviour

Safety Recommendations

Zero tolerance must apply to harassment during lifting operations. Any behaviour that distracts lifting personnel must result in immediate removal and escalation.

●LOLER Reg. 8 – Lifts must be supervised and controlled.

●PUWER Reg. 9 – Distraction compromises safe operation.

●BS 7121-1 – Lifting personnel must work without interference.

●CDM 2015 – Site management must control behaviour affecting safety.

Key Message

Harassment during lifting is a safety breach.

Wolf Lifting Dynamics – Safe Lifting UK | Case Study 79

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