Plan every temporary state
The completed building’s strength does not describe its behaviour during erection. A panel, beam or slab may experience different actions when lifted from transport, rotated or temporarily supported. The documentation must address these stages and the installation sequence.
Coordinate the manufacturer, haulier, lifting team and person responsible for the structure. Delivery order should match erection order to avoid unnecessary storage and handling. The Lifting plan incorporates working radius, mass, geometry, travel path and suitable access equipment.
Check anchors and available strength
Before lifting, verify the element’s identity and that its concrete has achieved the strength required for the operation. Check transport damage and the location and condition of lifting anchors. An apparently undamaged element may still not be authorised for lifting.
Clutches and anchors must be compatible with the specified system and direction of loading. Components fitting together is not evidence of compatibility. Missing inserts, cracks or lifting equipment that differs from the plan require technical assessment, not improvised attachment points. Damaged lifting components must be removed from use.
Stability before crane release
Bearing arrangements, props and temporary bracing are determined by the erection design. Their purposes may include resisting wind, preventing overturning or transferring loads into a partially completed structure. No universal number of braces is suitable for every panel.
The crane can be released only when the element has reached the planned safe state. Temporary supports then remain until the specified removal conditions are satisfied, including connection, grouting and strength requirements where applicable. Being in the correct final position alone is insufficient.
People, surroundings and changes
Control access to the movement and potential fall area, keeping uninvolved people clear. Safe access for connecting and inspecting elements must be planned, rather than climbing the component itself. Cranes and access platforms also require suitable supporting surfaces.
Changes to sequence, damage, movement of braces or significant weather events require reassessment. Handover between teams must identify elements that still depend on temporary support and who authorises the next stage. Permanent connections and temporary supports should not be altered independently of the erection arrangements.
