RA-HS31 Lifting Operations
File Reference : RA-HS31 Lifting Operations
Date File Updated 09-03-26
Category Risk Assessments
Tags: ISO 45001, 6.1, IMS1 7.5

Included in the alphaZ subscription

Every alphaZ document and toolkit, with updates as they are released. Everything you download is yours to keep.

alphaZ subscription Subscriber access

You are logged in as an alphaZ subscriber

This document's file is ready to download from the Download Files tab below.

alphaZ documents character illustration
Effective form templates

This example risk assessment has been prepared using the
F-HS20 General Risk Assessment form template - a purpose-built template designed to focus entirely on what matters: identifying hazards, rating risk and recording controls, without any unnecessary fields getting in the way.

The file is supplied in fully editable MS Word format and can be easily customised and saved to Google Docs format if required. The document uses pre-defined style formatting throughout with styles to match the risk-ratings which are input using select boxes pre-populated with all possible risk ratings. All text is in Calibri font for improved readability.
The following document labelling is included in the footer:

  • Form number and title
  • Information-classification
  • Version
  • Page number / total pages
alphaZ documents - beautifully designed, tried and tested form templates. No junk, jargon or unecessary fields. Simple and usuable form templates developed over 25 years through practical use in the real world.
Document Preparation
Logo Update Service

Download this form template with your company name and logo already added!
Document Preparation is included with the alphaZ subscription.

How to Download

This file is included in the alphaZ subscription.

Document template File Formats

Lifting Operations Risk Assessment

This fully completed lifting operations risk assessment example has been prepared by a qualified health and safety professional. It covers a typical range of hazards, risks and associated control measures for all lifting operations involving cranes, hoists, fork lift trucks, telehandlers and other lifting equipment and can be used as a starting point when developing your own risk assessment documentation.

What Does This Lifting Operations Risk Assessment Cover?

This risk assessment identifies the key hazards associated with lifting operations including;
  • Load falling during lifting — failure of lifting equipment or tackle causing the load to fall, fatally crushing persons below
  • Crane overturning — crane or telehandler overturning under excessive load, off-level ground or in strong wind
  • Failure of lifting accessories — failure of slings, shackles, hooks or eyebolts causing load to fall
  • Persons struck by swinging load — load swinging uncontrollably during lifting or travel striking persons

Each hazard includes an inherent risk rating of Substantial, and a comprehensive listing of applicable control measures covering areas such as;

  • Lifting plans for all non-routine lifts; LOLER thorough examination certificates current on site
  • Safe working loads confirmed; exclusion zones beneath and around all suspended loads
  • Ground-bearing capacity assessed; outrigger pads used; anemometer readings before crane operation
  • All lifting accessories inspected before use; six-monthly LOLER thorough examinations
  • Only certificated riggers and slingers to attach and detach loads; tag lines to control load swing
  • Banksman signals and constant visual or radio contact throughout all lifts

A residual risk rating is then assigned to each hazard, demonstrating how effective risk management reduces overall risk to a tolerable level.

A Professional, Easy-to-Use Risk Assessment Template

This document uses colour-coded header styles matched to risk ratings, making it quick to read and easy to communicate during toolbox talks and worker training. A built-in risk rating matrix supports consistent evaluation of likelihood and consequence, and hazard pictograms using internationally recognised ISO warning symbols are included alongside relevant hazard entries — improving clarity and helping to highlight risks and mandatory controls.
The result is a completed risk assessment that looks professional, reads clearly, and demonstrates a structured and effective approach to risk management.

Who Is This Risk Assessment Template Suitable For?

This lifting operations risk assessment template is suitable for health and safety advisers, site managers, lift supervisors and any employer with a duty to assess risks under the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) 1998. It can be implemented as a standalone document or as part of a broader occupational health and safety management system aligned with ISO 45001.

Note: This example risk assessment is supplied for use as guidance only and should be reviewed and completed by a competent person.

These files are for alphaZ subscribers. Log in to the subscriber library once and each file below downloads straight away. Not a subscriber yet? See the alphaZ subscription.

Each file downloads straight away. You can also browse the subscriber library.