A critical lift plan should explain how the specific load will be moved with the selected equipment and crew. The exact format comes from the rule, owner, employer, contract, or site procedure that governs the job.
Common plan elements include:
- the load’s verified weight, dimensions, center of gravity, and lifting points;
- the crane configuration, operating radius, load-chart capacity, and capacity deductions;
- the rigging arrangement, component ratings, sling forces, and inspection status;
- crane location, ground support, clearances, lift path, and landing area;
- hazards such as power lines, occupied areas, weather, and nearby equipment;
- assigned roles, communication methods, sequence, hold points, and stop-work limits; and
- required reviews, meetings, approvals, and records.
Not every plan requires a professional engineer’s stamp or the same set of signatures. Those requirements depend on the design involved and the governing procedure. For a construction lift in which more than one crane or derrick supports the load, 29 CFR 1926.1432 requires a qualified person to develop the plan and the lift director to review it with the workers involved, but the federal rule does not require a written document.
Review the full critical lift planning guide and the separate rigging inspection checklist.