The Role of Appointed Persons in Lifting Operations
Lifting operations are a high-risk activity in construction and require meticulous planning and execution to ensure safety and compliance. One of the key roles in this process is that of the Appointed Person, who is responsible for planning lifting operations in accordance with LOLER 1998 (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations) and BS 7121 Code of Practice for Safe Use of Cranes. Ensuring that an Appointed Person is properly trained and competent is essential for legal compliance and safe site operations.
What Does an Appointed Person Do?
The Appointed Person is responsible for:
• Planning and organising all lifting operations to ensure they are carried out safely.
•Conducting risk assessments and developing method statements for lifting tasks.
•Ensuring compliance with LOLER 1998 by selecting appropriate lifting equipment and ensuring proper maintenance.
• Coordinating with crane supervisors, slinger signallers, and lifting teams to ensure clear communication and safety procedures are followed.
Without a trained and competent Appointed Person, lifting operations may lack the necessary oversight, increasing the risk of accidents, regulatory breaches, and costly project delays.
Why Employers Must Ensure Competence in Lifting Operations
Under UK law, employers have a duty to ensure that all lifting operations are carried out safely and by competent personnel. Compliance with LOLER 1998, MHSWR 1999, and HASAWA 1974 is mandatory, and failure to do so can lead to enforcement action by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Ensuring that lifting personnel hold relevant qualifications, such as an NVQ in Controlling Lifting Operations – Planning Lifts, is a key step in demonstrating competence.
How All Star Safety Can Help
At All Star Safety, we offer expert training and assessments to help Appointed Persons and lifting teams gain the skills they need to operate safely and compliantly. Our services include:
✔ NVQ Assessments for Appointed Persons – Helping candidates achieve the qualifications needed for this role.
✔ Lifting Operations Risk Assessments – Ensuring compliance with LOLER and BS 7121.
✔ Site Audits & Compliance Checks – Helping businesses verify the competency of their lifting teams.
✔ Health & Safety Consultancy – Providing expert guidance to support safe lifting operations.
Contact us to see how we can assist you in staying safe and compliant.
📞 0330 133 0402
📩 info@allstarsafety.co.uk