£40,000 fine after poorly planned 500kg lifting operation
A manufacturer has been fined after a 500kg pillar drill became unstable during a forklift lifting operation, seriously injuring a worker. HSE found the operation had not been properly risk assessed or planned.
The incident
HSE reported that a worker suffered twelve fractured ribs after a newly purchased pillar drill weighing about 500kg became unstable while being lifted with a forklift truck and fell onto him.
The HSE investigation found the company had failed to undertake a suitable and sufficient risk assessment and had failed to ensure the lifting operation was properly planned by a competent person, appropriately supervised and carried out safely. The company was fined £40,000 and ordered to pay £5,032 in costs.
The lift-planning lesson
The case demonstrates that LOLER planning principles apply to routine workplace lifting just as much as major crane operations. Equipment selection does not remove the requirement for competent planning, supervision and a safe system of work.
- Confirm the load weight and centre of gravity.
- Select suitable lifting equipment and accessories.
- Define the lifting method and exclusion zone.
- Ensure competent planning and appropriate supervision.
- Retain the approved plan and evidence of controls.
LiftPlanProUK provides planning and management support. Site-specific information must be checked and every lifting operation approved by a competent person.