How to Create a Crane Lift Plan

1. 01

   Confirm the load weight and center of gravity

   Before selecting a crane, get the exact weight of the load from the manufacturer's data sheet or by weighing it. Estimate the center of gravity. If the load is asymmetric, the rigging attachment points will need to compensate to keep the load level during the lift.

2. 02

   Pull the crane's load chart for the planned configuration

   Locate the crane's load chart for the intended boom length and configuration (e.g., main boom only, with jib, with counterweight configuration). Find the capacity at the planned working radius. The load including rigging hardware must not exceed the rated capacity at that radius.

3. 03

   Calculate if the lift is critical (over 75% of rated capacity)

   Divide the gross load by the crane's rated capacity at the working radius. If the result exceeds 75%, the lift is classified as critical and requires additional planning steps, additional supervision, and a more detailed lift plan with pre-lift engineering review.

4. 04

   Complete the rigging plan

   Select slings with a working load limit (WLL) appropriate for the load weight and rigging angle. Calculate the sling tension at the planned rigging angle using the D/d ratio for wire rope or the angle factor for synthetic slings per ASME B30.9. Document the sling type, size, and attachment configuration.

5. 05

   Check for overhead power line hazards per OSHA Table A

   Identify all overhead power lines within the crane's swing radius. Look up the required clearance distance from OSHA 1926.1408 Table A based on the line voltage. If the crane cannot maintain the required clearance, you need an encroachment plan, line de-energization, or insulating barriers before the lift proceeds.

6. 06

   Assign lift director, operator, and rigger roles

   Designate the lift director who is responsible for the overall lift. Confirm the operator holds the NCCCO endorsement for the crane type being operated per OSHA 1926.1427. Assign qualified riggers per OSHA 1926.1425. All four signature roles (lift director, operator, rigger, site supervisor) must sign the lift plan before the lift begins.

7. 07

   Conduct pre-lift meeting and execute the plan

   Hold a pre-lift meeting with all crew to review the lift plan, rigging configuration, communication signals, abort criteria, and emergency procedures. After the meeting, have all parties sign the lift plan. Keep a copy at the crane during the lift. After completion, file the signed lift plan with the job record.