What is the purpose of a lifting plan and who should approve it?

• A. To determine the lifting equipment's certification status.
• B. To document rigging method, hazards, roles, and communications; approved by supervisor and safety officer or engineer.
• C. To document a project schedule and milestones.
• D. To record maintenance history of gear.

Answer: (B)

A lifting plan is about safe, coordinated lifting by laying out exactly how the lift will be done. It documents the rigging method chosen, the hazards you’ve identified, who does what, and how everyone will communicate during the operation. It also covers important details like the equipment and attachments to be used, the load path, exclusion zones, signaling, weather considerations, and any contingency actions. This level of planning helps prevent surprises on site and ensures each team member knows their role and the controls in place.

Approval should come from someone with the authority to verify safety and compliance, typically the supervisor plus a safety officer or engineer. Their review confirms that the plan meets site rules and engineering requirements, and that the chosen rigging method and equipment are appropriate for the load.

This isn’t about equipment certification, project scheduling, or maintenance history. It’s about how the lift will be executed safely, who is responsible, and how information will flow during the lift.