A major construction contractor has been fined following a serious incident where an unplanned lifting operation caused a structural collapse, resulting in widespread damage and disruption. According to Construction Enquirer, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) concluded that the lift had not been planned by a competent Appointed Person and was carried out without suitable risk assessments or supervision.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of competent lift planning and formal qualification pathways—particularly for those in supervisory and management roles.
The Legal Requirement for Lift Planning and Supervision
Under LOLER 1998 (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations) and CDM 2015, lifting operations must:
-
Be properly planned by a competent person
-
Be supervised by qualified lifting personnel
-
Have detailed method statements and risk assessments in place
-
Use operatives and supervisors who are trained and certified for their roles
Failure to meet these standards can result in structural failure, serious injury, or even prosecution.
How NVQs Demonstrate Competence in Lifting and Site Management
To prevent such incidents, All Star Safety strongly encourages contractors and principal contractors to ensure their teams hold appropriate NVQs, such as:
-
Level 5 NVQ in Controlling Lifting Operations – Planning Lifts (Appointed Person)
-
Level 4 NVQ in Controlling Lifting Operations – Supervising Lifts
-
Level 6 NVQ in Construction Site Management, which includes oversight of complex site activities, including lifting
These qualifications provide formal, portfolio-based evidence of competence that aligns with HSE expectations and card scheme requirements (CPCS, CSCS).
How All Star Safety Can Help
✔ Nationwide delivery of lifting-related NVQs and site management qualifications
✔ Support with CPCS Blue Card applications for lifting roles
✔ Consultancy and audit services to improve lifting operation planning and site compliance
✔ Flexible assessment via Quals Direct, Teams, and on-site visits
Contact us to see how we can assist you in staying safe and compliant.
📞 0330 133 0402
📞 01473 561 402