Trade RAMS template
RAMS for Lifting Operations (UK): Free Template + Site-Specific Generator
Appointed persons plan and execute lifts involving cranes, telehandlers, or hoists. A precise RAMS documents load paths, communications, and weather limits so every lift is controlled and auditable.
High-risk activities
phase1
2025-10-01
What you'll brief on site
Align supervisors, evidence compliance, and pre-fill RAMSGen with the core talking points below.
- ✓Verify ground bearing pressure calculations and mats
- ✓Confirm load weights, rigging gear, and certification dates
- ✓Check weather forecast and anemometers before lifting
- ✓Ensure communication devices are charged and tested
- ✓Document lift completion, incidents, and lessons learned
Key approvals
Lifting operations permit referencing the lift plan, Road closure or pavement licence for public interfaces, Power line isolation permits where overhead lines exist, Night working permit if lifting outside normal hours
Snapshot hazards
- Dropped loads causing fatal injuries
- Crane collapse or overturning
- Contact with overhead power lines
- Pinch points during rigging or slinging
- Adverse weather affecting stability
Critical controls
- Prepare a LOLER-compliant lift plan with load weights and centres of gravity
- Appoint competent personnel (AP, crane supervisor, slinger/signaller)
- Install exclusion zones with barriers and banksman control
- Monitor wind, lightning, and ground conditions with stop criteria
- Inspect lifting accessories before each use with colour coding
Permits & references
- Lifting operations permit referencing the lift plan
- Road closure or pavement licence for public interfaces
- Power line isolation permits where overhead lines exist
- Night working permit if lifting outside normal hours
Implementation walkthrough
Toolbox ready- 1
Survey the lift area, ground bearing pressures, and obstructions
- 2
Confirm crane selection, outrigger positions, and rigging arrangements
- 3
Brief the team on signals, communication, and emergency procedures
- 4
Execute the lift slowly with constant radio communication
- 5
Land the load, de-rig, and complete post-lift inspection records
Template detail
Export ready in RAMSGenWhy Lifting Operations RAMS matter
Appointed persons plan and execute lifts involving cranes, telehandlers, or hoists. A precise RAMS documents load paths, communications, and weather limits so every lift is controlled and auditable.
Common hazards for Lifting Operations
- Dropped loads causing fatal injuries
- Crane collapse or overturning
- Contact with overhead power lines
- Pinch points during rigging or slinging
- Adverse weather affecting stability
Typical control measures for Lifting Operations
- Prepare a LOLER-compliant lift plan with load weights and centres of gravity
- Appoint competent personnel (AP, crane supervisor, slinger/signaller)
- Install exclusion zones with barriers and banksman control
- Monitor wind, lightning, and ground conditions with stop criteria
- Inspect lifting accessories before each use with colour coding
Method statement outline
- Survey the lift area, ground bearing pressures, and obstructions
- Confirm crane selection, outrigger positions, and rigging arrangements
- Brief the team on signals, communication, and emergency procedures
- Execute the lift slowly with constant radio communication
- Land the load, de-rig, and complete post-lift inspection records
PPE, training, and permits
PPE essentials
- Hi-vis clothing with distinction for key roles
- Cut-resistant gloves for rigging
- Hard hats with chin straps
- Hearing protection where plant noise exceeds limits
Training & competence
- CPCS Appointed Person (A61) or equivalent
- Crane supervisor and slinger/signaller certification
- Banksman and traffic marshal training
- Emergency first aid with emphasis on crush injuries
Permits & supporting documents
- Lifting operations permit referencing the lift plan
- Road closure or pavement licence for public interfaces
- Power line isolation permits where overhead lines exist
- Night working permit if lifting outside normal hours
RAMS checklist for Lifting Operations
- Verify ground bearing pressure calculations and mats
- Confirm load weights, rigging gear, and certification dates
- Check weather forecast and anemometers before lifting
- Ensure communication devices are charged and tested
- Document lift completion, incidents, and lessons learned
FAQs: Lifting Operations RAMS
Do we need a lift plan for every lift?
Yes. All lifting operations must be planned by a competent person under LOLER. The RAMS should reference the plan number and appointed person.
What wind speed stops a crane lift?
Follow manufacturer limits (often 9–13 m/s) and include them in the RAMS. Monitor gusts and record them before and during lifts.
Who signs the lifting permit?
Typically the appointed person and principal contractor. Detail signatures and hold points in the RAMS so governance is clear.
Generate a site-specific Lifting Operations RAMS in minutes
Lifting Operations RAMS generator
Related resources
Frequently asked questions
Do we need a lift plan for every lift?
Yes. All lifting operations must be planned by a competent person under LOLER. The RAMS should reference the plan number and appointed person.
What wind speed stops a crane lift?
Follow manufacturer limits (often 9–13 m/s) and include them in the RAMS. Monitor gusts and record them before and during lifts.
Related guidance
Share the following resources alongside your RAMS to reinforce site standards and evidence due diligence.
Build a site-specific RAMS in minutes
Import this template into RAMSGen, tailor the sequencing, and export a branded RAMS pack ready for principal contractor review.