On 17th December 2021 three contractors working for Route Services at Holgate depot were moving a 4.5 tonne steel frame into a building.
This was not a routine activity.
The team decided to lift, turn and carry the frame using two forklift trucks.
They were positioned each end of the load and each lifted the frame using a single-point lifting strap over their forks.
As the suspended frame started to turn, the smaller truck was pushed out of position and overturned.
Fortunately, there were no injuries.
This was a complex, tandem lifting operation but there was no specific risk assessment or lifting plan.
No-one was supervising the lifting operation.
This event is classed as a RIDDOR Dangerous Occurrence and a level 2 investigation is underway.
DISCUSSION POINTS:
How do you recognise an operation which requires more specialised assessment and knowledge?
What should you consider when planning a tandem lift?
Who should you involve in assessing the risk in a complex lifting operation?
How do you check you are using the correct tools and method for the activity?
Do you know what must be done to report a RIDDOR reportable Dangerous Occurrence?
