A method statement is a critical safety document that outlines, in step-by-step detail, how a specific high-risk activity—such as a crane lifting operation—will be executed in a safe, planned, and controlled manner. In Hong Kong, developing a proper method statement is a legal requirement under the Factories and Industrial Undertakings (Lifting Appliances and Lifting Gear) Regulations (FIU LALG) and is considered best practice under the Code of Practice for Safe Use of Tower Cranes and the CIC Guidelines on Safety of Tower Cranes. For lifting operations, particularly those involving tower cranes, mobile cranes, or tandem lifting, a comprehensive method statement helps prevent accidents, manage site risks, and ensure that all stakeholders understand their responsibilities.
A method statement should always be based on a prior risk assessment that identifies the hazards associated with the lifting task, evaluates their severity, and recommends appropriate control measures. Once risks have been clearly defined, the method statement translates these into an operational plan that ensures the lifting activity is carried out safely and legally. The person preparing the method statement must be a competent person—typically a lifting supervisor or engineer—with adequate training and experience in crane operations.
A well-structured method statement typically begins with a description of the work. This includes the nature of the lift (e.g. steel beam hoisting, equipment placement, facade installation), the type of crane involved, the characteristics of the load, and the reason lifting is required. It should identify the start and finish dates, the working hours, and the specific location on the site where the lift will take place. In projects with multiple phases, the method statement should define the sequence of lifting operations to avoid schedule clashes or site interference.
The next section must identify personnel involved in the lifting operation, including their roles and competencies. This includes the crane operator, lifting supervisor, slingers, signalers, and competent examiner (if applicable). The document must confirm that all personnel have valid certification and experience appropriate to the scope of the task. Where special lifts are involved—such as tandem lifts, man-lifting, or lifting over live traffic—additional approvals or expert supervision may be required.
The equipment section outlines the crane specifications, lifting gear, and accessories to be used. It should include the crane’s model, capacity, configuration (e.g. jib length, counterweight setup), and safe working load (SWL). All lifting gear—such as slings, shackles, spreader beams, and lifting platforms—must be listed along with their rated capacities and certification expiry dates. In the case of tower cranes, the method statement must indicate whether the crane is free-standing or tied-in, and what tie-in levels and foundation supports have been provided.
A step-by-step description of the lifting procedure forms the core of the method statement. This part must explain how the crane will be positioned and stabilized, how the load will be prepared and rigged, the lifting route, load travel height and radius, placement zone, and de-rigging method. It should include any pre-lift checks such as visual inspections, functional testing of the Safe Load Indicator (SLI), and wind speed monitoring. Each step should identify critical control points, known as “hold points,” where work must pause for verification before proceeding.
The safety and emergency measures section addresses all identified risks and how they will be controlled. It includes the establishment of exclusion zones to prevent unauthorized access, barricades, warning signs, and lookout arrangements. It must detail communication protocols, specifying that only one designated signaller is to communicate with the crane operator at any given time. Radio channels must be tested, and backup signals (e.g. standardized hand signals) must be reviewed during the toolbox talk.
Weather considerations are particularly important for safe lifting. The method statement must define maximum allowable wind speeds, temperature tolerances, and acceptable visibility conditions. As recommended in the Code of Practice, an anemometer must be installed on the crane and monitored continuously. The document must specify that lifting operations are to be suspended in the event of unsafe weather conditions such as wind exceeding 9 m/s, heavy rain, or lightning warnings.
The method statement should also describe rescue and emergency procedures in the event of load failure, entrapment, or equipment malfunction. This may include halting site operations, lowering the load to a safe position, deploying rescue teams, and contacting emergency services. Site-specific emergency contacts and reporting procedures must be clearly listed.
Supporting documents such as lifting permits, crane certification, rigging diagrams, risk assessments, and communication plans should be appended to the method statement. Where lifting platforms or cages are used for personnel access, the method statement must confirm that all equipment is certified and compliant with the FIU LALG and has been inspected and approved by a competent examiner.
Before implementation, the method statement must be reviewed and approved by the site’s competent person and supervising engineer. It should also be submitted to the Principal Contractor and made available to the Labour Department during inspections. A toolbox talk must be conducted with all involved personnel to explain the method statement, clarify their roles, and confirm their understanding. This briefing should be recorded and signed off by each participant.
In summary, a method statement for crane operations is a legally required, safety-critical document that ensures all lifting work is carried out in a structured, informed, and risk-controlled manner. It combines technical planning, site coordination, safety protocols, and legal compliance into one comprehensive plan. By following the structure outlined in the Code of Practice, the CIC Guidelines, and adhering to the obligations under the FIU LALG, contractors can demonstrate due diligence, protect workers, and ensure the safe and successful execution of crane-related tasks.
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