Key Features of a CPA Contract Lift:
Here are the basic principles of a CPA Contract Lift:
- Transfer of Responsibility:
Crane Provider's Responsibility:
The fundamental principle is that the crane owner assumes the majority of the risk and responsibility for the lifting operation. This includes planning, supervising, and carrying out the lift safely and in accordance with relevant regulations.
Customer's Responsibility:
While the crane owner takes on most of the burden, the customer still has crucial responsibilities, primarily providing accurate and timely information.
- Legal Compliance and Expertise:
Adherence to Regulations:
All work must be carried out in strict accordance with relevant regulations, primarily BS 7121 (Code of Practice for Safe Use of Cranes) and LOLER 1998 (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998).
Competent Personnel:
The crane company is responsible for providing all necessary competent and qualified personnel, including:
Appointed Person:
This is a crucial role. The crane company provides the Appointed Person who is responsible for the overall planning and management of the lifting operation. They have the knowledge, experience, and authority to ensure the lift is safe.
Crane Supervisor:
Oversees the lifting operation on site, ensuring it follows the plan.
Crane Operator:
Competently operates the crane.
Slinger/Signaller:
Directs the crane operator and ensures the load is correctly attached and handled.
Suitable Equipment:
The crane company provides a crane that is properly maintained, tested, certified, and of a suitable type and capacity for the specific lift.
- Planning and Documentation:
Site Survey:
The crane company's Appointed Person will conduct a thorough site survey to assess conditions and plan the lift.
Lift Plan:
A detailed lift plan is developed, outlining all aspects of the operation.
Risk Assessments and Method Statements (RAMS):
Comprehensive risk assessments are carried out, and method statements are produced to identify potential hazards and outline safe working procedures. These are crucial documents for ensuring safety.
Crane Provider's Insurance:
A key benefit of a CPA Contract Lift is that the crane owner provides specific insurance coverage.
This typically includes:
Loss or damage to the crane itself.
Loss or damage to goods being lifted (at Gerrard Cranes Ltd up to £25,000 is inc as standard - increased cover is available at additional cost).
Third-party liability for loss, damage, or injury to property or persons caused by the crane company's negligence.
Customer's Public Liability Insurance:
The customer is still expected to have their own public liability insurance in place.
- Customer's Key Responsibilities (Information Provision):
Accurate Information:
The customer is solely responsible for providing accurate and complete information regarding:
The items to be lifted (weight, dimensions, lifting points, etc.).
Site and ground conditions (ground bearing capacity, obstacles, access, etc.).
Site Access and Preparation:
The customer must ensure the site is prepared for the crane, including clear access and any necessary road closures or permits (though the crane company may assist with arranging these, the ultimate responsibility for ensuring them often lies with the customer).
