Safety checklist — Lifting / Crane operations

Crane operations and load handling. Based on Québec's Construction Safety Code (CSTC) and CNESST standards.

Before operations

14 items
  • PPE worn: hard hat, high-visibility vest, boots, gloves

  • Lift plan established: weight, radius, crane capacity

  • Crane inspected — valid compliance certificate

  • Slings and accessories inspected — no deformation or wear

  • Rated capacity posted on the apparatus (CSTC 2.15.2)

  • Signal person designated, trained and in hi-vis vest

  • Lifting zone marked — no one under the load (CSTC 3.10.4 (4))Critical

    ℹ️ 3.10.4 (4): no load over anyone’s head; no one under a load or a part that could fall. Not a “zero tolerance” rule.

  • Power lines identified — safe distance respected

  • Signal person ↔ crane operator communication established and continuous

  • Load never passes over people (CSTC 3.10.4 (4))Critical

    ℹ️ 3.10.4 (4). The signal person directs the lift; this is not a “zero tolerance” article.

  • Smooth movements — no sudden jerks

  • Load guided by tag line — never by hand

  • Signal person visible to crane operator at all times

  • Wind monitored — stop if gusts exceed manufacturer's limit

After operations

4 items
  • Crane secured: boom clear, hook raised, brake set

  • Slings and accessories stored under cover

  • Crane logbook completed

  • Work area cleared and secured

18 verification items — use this checklist on-site with the app

Use on-site — free

PDF reports, history and team management in the app

For information only — this is not legal advice. OK Sécurité is an independent company with no affiliation to the CNESST: we are not mandated, endorsed or certified by it. Completing a checklist here does not by itself establish your compliance — your exact obligations depend on your job site and your prevention program. Where there is any discrepancy, the official text published by Légis Québec or the CNESST prevails.

Risks and prevention — Lifting and crane operations

Crane operations are strictly governed by the CSTC and CSA Z150 standards. A lift plan is required for critical loads. Operators must hold a valid competency certificate and know their crane's capacity based on radius and configuration.

The signaller must maintain constant communication with the operator and know standardized hand signals. No one may stand under a suspended load. Slings, shackles, and hooks must be inspected before each shift and removed from service if deformed or excessively worn.

Wind conditions, proximity to power lines, and soil capacity under outriggers are critical factors to verify before each lift.

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