Lifting and handling · SERNEM

Chain Hoist and Tirfor Lifting Method Statement Example

Manual lifting devices still require competent planning: anchor strength, load paths, rated capacity and unintended movement must be controlled.

Illustrative work method — not a permitVerify site permits, risk assessments, approved procedures, competent engineering, equipment instructions and local laws separately. This page does not define test pressures, torque values, anchor ratings or work authorization.

Work sequence, hazards and safeguards

Illustrative sequence only: adapt to the approved job pack and site conditions.

  1. 1

    Confirm load and lift plan

    Hazard
    Unknown centre of gravity and load characteristics
    Safeguard
    Have a competent person verify load information, lifting direction and planned sequence.
  2. 2

    Verify anchors and equipment

    Hazard
    Unsuitable anchors, overload or equipment failure
    Safeguard
    Match approved anchor capacity, device identification and inspection records.
  3. 3

    Establish exclusion and communication

    Hazard
    Working below load, trapping and load swing
    Safeguard
    Protect the load route, exclude bystanders and confirm operator/signaler roles.
  4. 4

    Move load under competent supervision

    Hazard
    Sudden load movement or loss of control
    Safeguard
    Follow approved equipment instructions and halt for deformation, abnormal sound or loss of control.
  5. 5

    Secure load and demobilize

    Hazard
    Unsupported load and uncontrolled removal
    Safeguard
    Confirm the load is safely supported independently before releasing rigging.

Three critical pre-start verification points

  • Load, centre of gravity and anchor verified
  • Hoist and rigging inspection records valid
  • Nobody is positioned under the suspended load

Stop-work triggers

Stop for unknown anchor strength, unverified equipment ratings, suspected overload, persons below the load or uncontrolled movement.

Frequently asked questions

Can a chain hoist be attached to a scaffold?

Only where a purpose-designed attachment is verified for the loads by competent designers or manufacturer instructions; ordinary scaffold tubes are not automatically suitable anchors.

Does hand-operated lifting require planning?

Yes. Both powered and manually operated hoists require risk-appropriate competent planning.

Official technical sources

These sources have jurisdiction-specific scope; verify local legal and engineering requirements.

Prepare your own document

Open the existing SERNEM generator to prepare and edit a site-specific method statement separately from this reference. Printing from the tool may require sign-in.

Open method statement generator →

Related field resources

Sling tension tool →Lifting-plan review worksheet →