Double Check Before You Lift: The Power of Pre-Lift Briefings in Safe Rigging Operations

Behind every successful lift is not just the right equipment — but the right conversation.

Too often in lifting operations, assumptions are made: that everyone knows the plan, that someone else checked the angles, that the load is labelled, or that the operator sees everything. This is where pre-lift briefings become indispensable.

In this week’s ELEVATIP, we explore why structured pre-lift briefings are a cornerstone of safe and efficient rigging, how to carry them out effectively, and what key elements should always be covered.

What Is a Pre-Lift Briefing?

A pre-lift briefing (also known as a “toolbox talk” or “lift team briefing”) is a short but structured conversation held just before lifting begins. It brings together the riggers, crane operators, signal personnel, banksman and any other relevant team members to ensure that:

  • Everyone understands the lift plan.
  • Roles are clearly defined.
  • Risks are identified and mitigated.
  • Communication protocols are agreed.

This isn’t just a formality — it’s a control measure with proven safety benefits.

Why It Matters

  • Aligns Everyone on the Plan
    Prevents costly or dangerous miscommunication during a lift.

  • Highlights Load-Specific Risks
    Ensures that all team members are aware of unusual load behaviour, off-centre COG, fragile components or environmental concerns.

  • Reinforces Team Awareness
    A reminder of proper signalling, PPE requirements, exclusion zones, and emergency procedures.

  • Reduces Delays
    When questions are answered before lifting starts, operations run more smoothly.

What Should Be Covered in a Pre-Lift Briefing?

Here’s a checklist you can use or adapt to your site needs:

  • Load Details

    • What is being lifted (size, weight, shape).
    • Known centre of gravity or lifting points.
    • Fragile or hazardous components.
  • Equipment

    • Type of crane or hoist.
    • Sling type, angle and capacity.
    • Any additional gear (spreader beams, shackles, chains).
  • Lift Path and Movement

    • Where the load is going.
    • Overhead hazards or obstructions.
    • Turning or rotating during lift.
  • Roles and Responsibilities

    • Who is signalling?
    • Who is operating the crane?
    • Who is watching the exclusion zone?
  • Communication Method

    • Hand signals or radio?
    • Agreed commands for “stop”, “pause”, “lower”, “emergency”
  • Environmental Conditions

    • Is the weather acceptable?
    • Are ground conditions stable?
  • Emergency Plan

    • What happens if the load slips, swings, or power fails?
    • Where are the safe exits and assembly points?

How to Deliver a Good Briefing

  1. Keep it short (5–10 minutes), but clear and focused.
  2. Use diagrams or printed lift plans where possible.
  3. Encourage questions — don’t rush.
  4. Finish with a verbal confirmation: “Does everyone understand?”

  • Important: If the lift is delayed, rescheduled, or significantly altered, the briefing must be repeated. Don’t assume yesterday’s plan still applies.

Real-World Insight

On a site lifting HVAC units to a rooftop, a team nearly caused a collision because the crane operator assumed the banksman would signal clearance to rotate — but no such signal came. A post-incident review revealed that the two teams hadn’t agreed which signals would be used. From that point on, all lifts began with a standardised pre-lift briefing. No further issues were recorded.

Sometimes, it only takes one short meeting to prevent a long list of mistakes.

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