During a multi-crane lift, who controls the lift?

In a multi-crane lift, the control of the lift is crucial for safety and precision. It is essential that a single, designated person oversees the operation. This individual is often referred to as the lift director or lift supervisor. Their role is to coordinate the actions of all crane operators involved, plan the lift path, communicate instructions, and manage any unforeseen circumstances that may arise.

Having one designated person in charge helps to minimize confusion and ensures clarity in communication among the different crane operators. This centralized command is vital for synchronizing the movements of multiple cranes, thereby maintaining safety standards and preventing accidents that could occur if multiple operators were trying to control the lift independently.

This practice is part of standard rigging protocol, as it streamlines the decision-making process and establishes accountability, which is especially important in complex operations like multi-crane lifts. The presence of a designated person leads to more organized and effective lifting operations.