Case Study 20: Lifting Without Active Lift Supervision
Incident Overview An Appointed Person authorised himself as Lift Supervisor but remained in the site office throughout the lifting operation. One slinger was left to manage loads between floors without oversight. What Went Wrong No lift supervisor was present to control load movement, monitor weather, or enforce exclusion zones. The slinger repeatedly moved between levels, leaving suspended loads uncontrolled. Key Lessons Learned - Lift supervision must be active and present - AP and Lift Supervisor roles must not conflict during live lifts - Lone slinging significantly increases risk Safety Recommendations A competent Lift Supervisor must be physically present for all suspended loads. Lifting must stop if supervision, communication, or exclusion zones cannot be maintained. ●LOLER: Reg 8 ●PUWER: Reg 8 (instructions), Reg 9 (training) ●BS 7121: Part 1 (supervision/roles) Wolf Lifting Dynamics Limited – Safety Hub | Case Study 20