SOPMechanical & Plant

Load Slinging and Rigging

SOP-RIG-001

About this Document

The Load Slinging and Rigging SOP (SOP-RIG-001) addresses critical safety measures necessary for lifting and moving loads in various workplaces. It covers potential hazards and safety compliance requirements outlined in the Work Health and Safety Act, ensuring workers are aware of the risks associated with rigging operations. This document is vital for riggers, crane operators, and safety personnel, providing guidelines that help prevent fatalities and injuries resulting from load handling. Implementing this SOP is crucial for maintaining a safe work environment and adhering to regulatory standards.

Hazards & Risks Covered

  • Load drop from sling, hardware, or hitch failure → fatality
  • Load swing from incorrect lift point or shifted centre of gravity
  • Personnel struck by load during lift or placement
  • Crush injuries during placement or release of rigging
  • Communication failure between rigger and crane operator
  • Use of incorrect sling type or capacity
  • Pinch and crush points between rigging components
  • Tag line entanglement with personnel

Legislation & Codes of Practice

  • Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Cth) and applicable state/territory WHS legislation
  • Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 (Cth) — Part 5.1 High Risk Work; Part 3.1 Plant
  • AS 2550.1 — Cranes, hoists and winches — Safe use — General requirements
  • AS 2550.5 — Cranes, hoists and winches — Mobile and vehicle-loading cranes
  • AS 2741 — Shackles
  • AS 4019 — Forged eye bolts
  • AS 4991 — Lifting devices
  • AS 1418 series — Cranes, hoists and winches — Design
  • Safe Work Australia — Code of Practice: Managing the Risks of Plant in the Workplace
  • Lift Plan and Rigging Register (associated documents)

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Cornerstone SWMS

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Legislation & Standards

  • Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Cwlth)
  • State & Territory WHS Legislation
  • Safe Work Australia Guidelines

Disclaimer: All documents provided on this platform are templates and starting points only. They must be reviewed, adapted, and approved by the Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU) or facilitated by a designated WHS Manager, Site Supervisor, or Principal Contractor, before use at any specific worksite. Site-specific hazards, conditions, and legislative requirements may vary. Cornerstone SWMS accepts no liability for documents used without appropriate review and customisation.

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