Product Overview

This Complex Lifting and Tandem Lifts SWMS is a comprehensive Safe Work Method Statement designed to identify, control, and minimise risks associated with complex and multi-crane lifting operations on Australian worksites. It provides detailed procedures, planning requirements, and control measures for a wide range of complex lift scenarios to support WHS compliance and safe execution of high risk construction work.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Development and review of complex lift planning documentation, including engineered lift studies and lift calculations
• Preparation and implementation of a detailed complex lifting plan, including load paths, exclusion zones, and emergency procedures
• Safe crane operation near overhead and underground power lines, including no-go zones and consultation with the asset owner
• Critical lifting using powered winches and hoists, including load rating checks, anchorage verification, and line-of-sight controls
• Management of alteration mid-lift risks, including change control, re-assessment of loads, and communication protocols before resuming lifting
• Planning and execution of multiple crane lifts, including designation of a lead crane and clear roles for each operator and dogger
• Synchronisation of crane movements to maintain load stability, balance, and controlled slew, hoist, and luffing actions
• Tandem lift operation, including equalisation of load share, sling angle management, and coordinated signalling
• Selection and inspection of lifting gear such as slings, shackles, spreader bars, and lifting beams for complex lifts
• Establishment and control of lifting exclusion zones to protect workers and the public from falling object and swing radius hazards
• Communication systems for complex lifts, including use of dedicated doggers, spotters, radios, and standardised hand signals
• Weather and ground condition assessment for complex and tandem lifts, including wind limits, ground bearing checks, and crane set-up
• Emergency response procedures for lift failure, equipment malfunction, or unexpected load movement during critical lifts

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for crane companies, rigging and dogging crews, principal contractors, structural steel installers, and site supervisors responsible for planning and overseeing complex and tandem lifting operations.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

This document was researched and developed to align with:

• Model Code of Practice: Construction Work – Guidance on managing risks associated with construction activities, including high risk construction work involving cranes and lifting.
• Model Code of Practice: Managing the Risk of Plant in the Workplace – Requirements for safe use of cranes, winches, hoists, and associated lifting equipment.
• Model Code of Practice: Managing Electrical Risks in the Workplace – Controls for crane operation and lifting activities near overhead and underground electrical assets.
• Model Code of Practice: Managing the Risk of Falls at Workplaces – Relevant where complex lifts interface with work at height or elevated work platforms.
• AS 2550 Cranes, Hoists and Winches – Safe Use – Series of standards providing guidance on the safe operation and maintenance of cranes and lifting equipment.
• AS 1418 Cranes, Hoists and Winches – Series of standards covering design and operational requirements for cranes and related lifting plant.
• AS/NZS 3012 Electrical installations – Construction and demolition sites – Electrical safety on construction sites where cranes and lifting plant operate near temporary power.
• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017