Core Responsibilities
An Appointed Person (AP) holds sole responsibility for the safe execution of lifting activities, though they may delegate specific tasks to competent personnel. Key duties include:
- Lift Planning: Assessing requirements for load weights, dimensions, and site conditions to create detailed lift plans.
- Risk Assessment: Identifying potential hazards and implementing safe systems of work through method statements.
- Equipment Selection: Choosing the correct cranes and lifting accessories for specific tasks.
- Site Management: Ensuring ground conditions are stable, managing site access/egress, and establishing exclusion zones.
- Supervision: Ensuring all personnel involved are adequately trained and informed
Certification Pathway (Red to Blue Card)
- Entry Requirements: Candidates must have passed the CITB Health, Safety and Environment Test for Managers and Professionals within the previous two years.
- Training & Assessment: A standard 5-day course typically includes 4 days of classroom/practical instruction followed by a theory and practical assessment.
- Red Trained Operator Card: Awarded upon successful completion of the course and tests; it is valid for 2 years.
- Blue Competent Operator Card: To upgrade, you must complete an NVQ Level 5 Diploma in Controlling Lifting Operations within the 2-year Red Card validity period.
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Key Training Modules
- Legislation: LOLER 1998, PUWER 1998, and British Standard BS 7121.
- Crane Stability: Calculating point loadings, outrigger loads, and ground pressure.
- Load Charts: Interpreting crane duty charts, range diagrams, and specification sheets.
- Communication: Methods for liaising with authorities (airports, highways) and using site-based signalling.
Note: If you already hold the CPCS A40 Slinger/Signaller qualification, completing the A61 course often automatically qualifies you for the CPCS A62 Crane Supervisor category