Element 2.1 The Banksman’s duties Element

2.1.1 The importance of the Banksman’s role 

2.1.2 Why the Banksman shall perform no other duties during a lift

2.1.3 Checking the cargo manifest and reviewing the load weights with the crane operator and slinger

2.1.4 Identifying escape routes should a problem develop during the lifting operation

2.1.5 Using more than one banksman and transferring responsibility for the lift

2.1.6 Ensuring everyone stays clear of the load

  2.1.7 Checking the load for attached objects that might drop off, before allowing the crane operations to continu

e 2.1.8 Giving the instruction to the crane operator to “inch up” the load (take the strain) to check the balance and security of the load

2.1.9 Checking the load is being lifted directly up and the hook is centered over the load

2.1.10 Maintaining an overview of the lifting operations area and the crane boom area

2.1.11 Ensuring that the load is moved at the minimum height necessary to avoid obstacles and locate the load in its final position

2.1.12 Difficulties that might occur during the lifting and moving operations and how to deal with them

2.1.13 Instructing the crane operator to lower the load at its final location in the correct orientation

2.1.14 Communicating that the load has or has not landed safely  

2.2 Communications and visibility 

2.2.1 The need for high-visibility vests 

2.2.2 The need for communicating hand signals clearly

2.2.3 What is meant by ‘line of sight’ and a ‘blind lift’ 

2.2.4 Controlling the lift and transfer of the load using the standard hand signals to direct the crane operating

r 2.2.5 Confirming that all the lifting team know the hand signal for ‘emergency stop’

2.2.6 Establishing and using two-way radio communications to control the lifting operation