Guidance on Lifting Operations in Construction When Using Excavators

This guideline explains how excavators may be safely used for lifting operations in construction. Although excavators are primarily designed for digging, they are frequently used to lift loads on construction sites. This creates unique risks that differ from those of conventional cranes.

Because excavators are widely used and often operate in confined, complex environments, clear guidance is essential. That is why Cranes for You includes this topic in the Knowledge Centre: safe lifting with excavators requires proper planning, correct configuration, competent personnel and compliance with lifting standards.

Summary of the Guidance

This guidance outlines the conditions under which excavators can be used for lifting operations and the safety controls that must be applied. Core points include:

• Excavators may only lift loads if they are equipped with a certified lifting point, load chart for lifting, and lifting-rated hydraulic system.
• A lifting operation with an excavator requires the same level of planning as any other lifting activity.
• The excavator operator must be trained and competent in lifting, not only in earthmoving.
• The load must never exceed the lifting capacity shown in the excavator’s approved load chart, taking boom position, radius and stability into account.
• Lifting over the side is often more restrictive; stability is a major risk factor compared to purpose-built cranes.
• A suitable lifting accessory (chain, hook, shackle, lifting eye) must be selected, inspected, and securely attached.
• The machine must be on a stable, level bearing surface capable of supporting full operational loads and dynamic forces.
• Worksite hazards such as underground services, overhead power lines, uneven terrain and blind spots must be controlled.
• Communication between operator and signaller must follow standard lifting-operations protocols.
• The excavator must hold a valid thorough examination, rated lifting charts and inspection records.

Practical Relevance in Lifting Operations

In practice, this guidance supports safer daily operations by:

• Ensuring excavators are only used for lifting when they meet all engineering and documentation requirements
• Reducing overturning risks by applying correct stability, ground-bearing and load-chart limits
• Standardising planning and risk-assessment procedures for excavator lifts
• Improving coordination between operators, signallers and site managers
• Preventing misuse of earthmoving equipment as improvised lifting devices
• Increasing awareness that excavators used for lifting fall under lifting-operation legislation, not only machine-operation rules

This approach increases safety, consistency and compliance across construction projects where excavators routinely lift pipes, road plates, formwork, barriers, rebar cages and other materials.

Official Source

This guidance is based on industry best-practice documents published by recognised construction-safety bodies, including national regulators and construction plant-safety organisations.

Related Knowledge Articles

• ICSA Crane Ground Preparation for Wind Farms
• Checklist for Safe Transport of Oversized Wind Turbine Components
• SPMT Best Practices
• Safe Lifting: Why Every Lift Requires a Lift Plan

Ready to Improve Safety and Efficiency?

Using excavators for lifting can be safe — but only when planned and executed correctly.
Download the referenced guidance from this page and integrate its principles into your lifting procedures to reduce risk and improve operational control.