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What Is a Crane Supervisor Responsible For?

The crane supervisor controls each lift on the day, following the appointed person’s plan.

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The crane supervisor controls lifting operations on site. They make sure each lift follows the lift plan written by the appointed person, brief the lifting team, and stop the lift if conditions change.

Who does what in a lift

RoleMain jobCPCS category
Appointed personPlans the lift and writes the lift planA61
Crane supervisorControls the lift on the dayA62
Slinger signallerAttaches loads and signals the operatorA40
Crane operatorOperates the craneVaries by crane type

Crane supervisor duties

Before the lift
  • Read and brief the lift plan
  • Check the team and equipment
  • Confirm weather and ground are safe
During the lift
  • Stay in control of the lift
  • Keep exclusion zones clear
  • Stop the lift if anything changes

Lifting operations are covered by LOLER 1998 and guidance in BS 7121. Most crane supervisors start as slinger signallers. Read what a slinger signaller does.

Mistakes crane supervisors make

The crane supervisor runs the lift on the day. Their decisions keep the operation within the plan.

  • Not reading the lift plan. Know the load, radius, crane setup and exclusion zones before the lift.
  • Ignoring the weather. Wind can make a safe lift dangerous. Check limits and stop if needed.
  • Poor briefing. Brief the operator, slinger signaller and others on their roles.
  • Changing the plan on the fly. If conditions change, stop and refer back to the appointed person.

A worked example

Before lifting roof trusses, the crane supervisor checks the lift plan, inspects the area, confirms wind speed, briefs the team and sets the exclusion zone. If wind rises above the plan’s limit, they stop the lift.

Your next steps

  1. Gain experience in lifting operations.
  2. Book crane supervisor training.
  3. Learn to read lift plans.
  4. Work alongside an appointed person.
  5. Keep your card in date.

Useful links

Book CPCS training with Coteca

Tell us the machine you operate and what you hold now. We will book your HS&E test, training and CPCS tests, then apply for your card.

See CPCS coursesCall 0208 099 4324

Frequently asked questions

Is a crane supervisor the same as an appointed person?

No. The appointed person plans the lift; the crane supervisor controls it on site.

Which CPCS card does a crane supervisor need?

A62, crane or lifting operations supervisor.

Do I need slinger signaller experience first?

It is the usual route, and many providers expect it.

Can a crane supervisor stop a lift?

Yes, and they should if conditions change from the plan.

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