FOREWORD TO THE TENTH EDITION

Following a major restructuring of the Code of Practice in 2001, the sixth edition in 2006 included an update of all the relevant standards, which had been published or amended since 2001. It also reflected the changes in practice which had occurred in recent times. This resulted in a large number of small changes throughout the work. First published in 1981, the Code has expanded in stages as more sections have been added. The seventh edition and eight editions added a further six sections bringing the total to twenty seven sections, making it an even more comprehensive guide to the safe use of all types of lifting equipment.

The previous eight editions closely followed UK legislation and standards, whereas this edition builds on these requirements to provide a globally applicable and accepted industry specific best practice guidance to the safe use of lifting equipment. Its sets a common language which breaks down barriers to trade while maintaining a safe and level playing field.

The code is a practical guide covering manual and power operated lifting machines and structures, such as bridge and gantry cranes and runway structures, together with a wide range of below hook equipment, from general purpose slings and lifting accessories, to the various types of vacuum and magnetic lifters. Its contents will be found useful in devising safe working practices for anyone using lifting equipment, as well as providing all the information necessary for safety training in this critical area of activity at work.

This code is based on the ‘risk based’ philosophy of modern legislation that places duties on those involved in every aspect of the manufacture, supply and use of lifting equipment, which together, collectively and comprehensively address all health and safety issues.

The terminology used in earlier editions of the code was that used in older legislation and standards. New legislation and standards often use different terms, and, over time, we have made necessary changes to keep it up to date. However, terminology varies globally, and the code is intended to apply to equipment commonly in use and that will include older equipment made to earlier standards and still serviceable. The reader is asked to bear this in mind if there is any apparent conflict in terms. Further revisions of the Code will be necessary as new standards are published and new technologies are integrated into common industrial practice.

This Code of Practice will be found to be a useful and authoritative source of information for all those people who are responsible for meeting legal obligations and indeed, for everyone concerned with safety at work.

Nothing contained in this Code of Practice in any way absolves the persons or organisations having responsibilities under legislation from their specific obligations. In particular, certain items covered by this code are supplied in the form of propriety designs for which the designer, manufacturer, etc. must accept full responsibility.

Every effort has been made to achieve the highest degree of accuracy in the preparation of the data and advice supplied, but ultimate responsibility for safety must continue to rest with the persons and organisations charged with specific duties in current legislation.

Readers are advised to obtain and read the relevant legislation in order to ascertain their duties and obligations. In some cases, these are available with guidance or codes of practice prepared by the local enforcing bodies.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

LEEA wishes to thank the member organisations who have provided information and technical assistance and, in particular, the members of the Drafting Committee without whose help the preparation of this Code of Practice would not have been possible. In addition, we offer our sincere thanks to the national enforcing authorities for their assistance.