Lifting MiMEP modules and MEP equipment requires precise planning due to their weight, size, special geometry and the congested environments often involved. Adhering to proven safety measures and best practices is vital to protect personnel, equipment, and project timelines.

Key Considerations and Best Practices

• Load Path and Stability: Establish clear, stable lifting paths through accurate load calculations and site surveys. Assess ground stability to ensure it can support equipment weight and movement.
• Interface Management: Coordinate closely with the main contractor and structural teams to prevent conflicts and confirm the structural integrity of lifting points.
• Risk Assessment and Method Statements: Develop specific lifting plan detailing potential hazards, mitigation strategies, and safe operating procedures. These form the foundation of a well-managed lifting operation.
• Early Engagement with Specialists: Involve experienced lifting engineers and MiMEP professionals early in the planning process to incorporate rigging expertise, load-balancing techniques, and the correct hoisting equipment selection.
• Mock-Up and Simulation: Employ BIM or similar technologies to simulate lifting operations. Identify possible clashes and optimize sequences before actual execution.
• Training and Supervision: Provide comprehensive training on equipment use, signaling protocols, and emergency procedures. Appoint qualified supervisors to ensure adherence to safety protocols.
• Monitoring and Emergency Planning: Use real-time monitoring during lifts and establish robust emergency response plans in place to address unexpected incidents.

Practical Insights

• Custom Hoisting Systems: Where access is restricted or equipment has unique requirements, specialised lifting systems and modular devices are effective.
• BIM for Logistics: Virtual models allow teams to refine lifting strategies and preemptively resolve spatial constraints.
• Comprehensive Planning: Consider practical factors— such as the weight of modules and delivery methods— to enhance overall safety and efficiency.

Conclusion

By integrating thorough planning, specialised expertise, rigorous training, and advanced simulations, safety in lifting operations becomes more than a regulatory duty— it is a professional obligation. Through proactive measures, engineering teams can mitigate risks, protect personnel, and ensure smooth, successful installations.

This article is contributed by Ir K C LAU, with the coordination of the Safety Specialist Committee.