CRANE HIRE AND CONTRACT LIFTS
If you are looking for a mobile crane to lift or move something, it is crucial that you know what your responsibilities are during the operation and the types of risk involved.
Crane hire is normally carried out under one of two sets of standard terms set down by the Construction Plant-Hire Association (CPA); namely CPA Crane Hire or CPA Contract Lift.
To determine which type of crane hire is suitable for you, you must understand the significant differences between the two:
CPA Crane Hire
Under CPA Crane Hire terms, you as the hirer are completely responsible for the hired crane once it leaves the public highway. You must handle a variety of important decisions concerning the operation of the crane, such as:
- •choosing the correct crane
•lift planning & supervision
•arranging slinging and signalling
•designating a trained Appointed Person to oversee the process
•preparing Method Statements and Risk Assessments
More so, the hirer must provide insurance for the crane, for the goods being lifted, as well as public liability.
CPA Contract Lift
Under CPA Contract Lift terms, much of the responsibilities are taken onboard and fully managed by the crane hire company. Although it can be more costly upfront than the CPA Crane Hire, it significantly reduces the risk of paying out later should something go wrong during the operation. The crane hire company will select a suitable model of crane for the goods being lifted, carry out lift planning & supervision, arrange labour for slinging & signalling, in addition to preparing Method Statements & Risk Assessments.
Finally, the crane hire company will also retain responsibility for any loss or damage to the crane, associated equipment, third party liability and (if agreed) insurance of items being lifted.
Note: Provision of lift rigging is not normally included within terms of a Contract Lift and should be agreed between the parties.