New guidance on lifting when using excavators

The Construction Confederation (CC) and the Construction Plant-hire Association (CPA) have publishedGuidance on Lifting Operations in Construction When Using Excavators. The publications is aimed at encouraging best practice throughout the industry.

It addresses the apparent conflict between the wording of the LOLER 1998 Approved Code of Practice and the requirements of the Machinery Directive in regards to the need for a rated capacity indicator on an excavator with a safe working load below 1t if it is used as a crane.

The CC (www.thecc.org.uk/index.asp?page=whatsnew) and CPA worked with plant manufacturers body the Construction Equipment Association and the Health and Safety Executive to produce the document, which is available on the CC and CPA websites (www.cpa.uk.net).