LiftPlanProUK
Tower crane lift planning guidance

Tower Crane Lift Plans

Tower crane lifting should sit inside a controlled site lifting-management system, not a loose daily decision. The plan must connect the load, radius, zoning, lifting team, landing area, temporary works interfaces and current crane configuration. Where the site changes daily, the plan also needs a clear trigger for review before the lift proceeds.

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Standards and Planning Basis

Plan tower crane operations around LOLER Regulation 8, PUWER, BS 7121, manufacturer instructions, site lifting rules and any temporary works approvals. The Appointed Person remains responsible for the planning standard, with lift supervisors and slinger/signallers briefed to the current plan and restrictions.

Common Loads

  • Concrete shutters, formwork systems and reinforcement cages
  • Palletised materials, stillages and site logistics loads
  • MEP modules, AHUs, ductwork and packaged plant
  • Facade panels, cladding packs and glazing units

Planning Considerations

  • AP site attendance: the Appointed Person should attend site for tower crane erection planning to confirm crane position, access, foundation or base interfaces, exclusion zones and site constraints before issue
  • OHLE and GS6: identify overhead electric lines, exclusion distances, goalposts, permits and appointed banksman controls before lifting near any live overhead service
  • Ground and temporary works: confirm crane base/foundation design, tie details, grillage, propping or structural support approvals before relying on them
  • A61/AP control: define who planned, checked, briefed and authorised the operation, including second review for complex or unusual lifts
  • Change control: stop and review if the radius, load, crane configuration, weather, landing zone or site layout changes

Key Checks

  • Confirm crane configuration, radius, load moment, zoning and restrictions
  • Ensure the AP attends site for tower crane erection planning before the plan is issued
  • Check oversailing, exclusion zones, interface with public areas and adjacent cranes
  • Confirm wind limits, landing area, load path and communication method
  • Link lift plans to daily/weekly lifting operations records and active method statements

Evidence to Record

  • Current crane test/thorough examination records and operator competence
  • AP site visit or erection planning record with constraints, assumptions and hold points
  • Lift plan drawing, zoning plan, lifting accessories certificates and load information
  • Foundation, base, tie or temporary works approval where applicable
  • Briefing/sign-off record showing the team worked to the issued revision

How LiftPlanProUK Helps

  • Tower crane plan workflows for Business and Ultimate users
  • Lift schedules linked to active site management
  • Evidence, briefing and approval records
  • Independent verification route for complex operations
FAQ

Tower Crane Lift Plans Questions

Are tower crane lifts planned individually?

Routine lifts may sit within an agreed system, but lifts still need suitable planning, supervision and control for the load, radius, landing zone and current site conditions.

Should the AP attend site for tower crane erection planning?

Yes. The Appointed Person should attend site for tower crane erection planning before issue so the plan reflects the actual crane position, access, foundations, temporary works, exclusions and site interfaces.

How should OHLE be handled?

Overhead lines must be identified early, controlled in line with GS6 principles, and protected by exclusion distances, barriers, goalposts, permits and clear supervision where relevant.