In Hong Kong, lifting operations are governed by one of the most structured regulatory frameworks in the region: the *Factories and Industrial Undertakings (Lifting Appliances and Lifting Gear) Regulations*, commonly referred to as the FIU LALG under Cap. 59J. These regulations are designed to ensure that lifting appliances and lifting gear—such as cranes, chain blocks, ropes, hooks, slings, and shackles—are designed, maintained, tested, and operated in a manner that safeguards the health and safety of all personnel involved in or affected by lifting operations. Understanding the scope, requirements, and implications of the FIU LALG is essential for contractors, crane owners, site supervisors, and all lifting-related personnel.
The FIU LALG applies to all lifting appliances and lifting gear used in industrial undertakings, including construction sites, factories, shipyards, and workshops. As defined in Section 2 of the regulation, a lifting appliance is any device used for raising or lowering loads, while lifting gear refers to chains, ropes, or other attachments that form part of the lifting system. Importantly, the regulations are not limited to tower cranes—they apply to mobile cranes, derrick cranes, hoists, pulleys, and every piece of gear that connects to a load.
One of the central requirements of the FIU LALG is regular examination and certification. Every lifting appliance and lifting gear item must be tested and thoroughly examined by a *competent examiner* before being put into use for the first time and at regular intervals thereafter. According to Regulation 5, cranes must be examined at least once every 12 months, while lifting gear such as slings or hooks must be examined every 6 months. Each examination must result in a written certificate (Form 1 or 2), signed by the examiner and maintained by the owner. These certificates must be kept on-site and be available for inspection by officers from the Labour Department.
The definition of a *competent examiner* is strictly regulated. As outlined in the regulations, the person must be either a registered professional engineer or an authorized person approved by the Commissioner for Labour, with extensive experience in the testing and evaluation of lifting appliances. Any competent examiner found guilty of negligence, such as issuing false certificates or failing to deliver reports, can face a fine of up to HK$200,000 and imprisonment for 12 months, as per Section 2.6.3 of the guide.
Equally important is the appointment of a *competent person* for the operation, maintenance, and supervision of lifting appliances. This person must be trained, qualified, and experienced in handling the specific equipment in use. Under Regulation 7A, it is illegal to operate a lifting appliance unless it is under the control of a competent person. The competent person is responsible for ensuring that equipment is properly installed, stable, correctly marked with its safe working load (SWL), and used within that limit. Failure to comply can result in heavy penalties for both the individual and the employer.
Marking of the Safe Working Load is another core requirement of the FIU LALG. Every lifting appliance must be clearly and permanently marked with its SWL in kilograms or tonnes. Where the SWL varies based on the configuration or operating radius—as in the case of tower cranes or mobile cranes—a chart must be provided showing the allowable load for each configuration. Regulation 2.3.15 specifies that no load may be lifted that exceeds the rated capacity, and doing so constitutes an offence subject to prosecution.
The regulations also mandate the use of *automatic safe load indicators* (ASLIs) on certain cranes, particularly tower cranes and mobile cranes with a lifting capacity exceeding one tonne. These devices provide real-time feedback to the operator about the current load and alert them when the safe limit is being approached or exceeded. Regulation 2.3.3 states that it is illegal to operate such cranes without a functioning ASLI, and operators must be trained to interpret and respond to these indicators appropriately.
In addition to routine testing and inspection, the FIU LALG also covers special scenarios such as the erection and dismantling of cranes. Regulation 2.3.9 requires that these tasks be carried out under the direct supervision of a competent person, using safe systems of work and adequate mechanical support. Where cranes are used with traveling or slewing motion, precautions must be taken to prevent accidental movement, collision, or loss of control.
The FIU LALG further imposes strict duties on owners, contractors, and workers. Owners who fail to comply with testing, maintenance, or certification requirements can be fined up to HK$400,000, especially where offences are committed without reasonable excuse or involve negligence. Workers who intentionally endanger themselves or others during lifting operations—such as by tampering with safety devices or ignoring instructions—can also be fined under Section 2.6.2.
To support enforcement, the Labour Department conducts regular site inspections and audits. Non-compliance may result in immediate suspension notices under the *Occupational Safety and Health Ordinance* or prosecution under the *Factories and Industrial Undertakings Ordinance*. Site contractors must maintain full documentation of all lifting appliances and gear in use, including test certificates, maintenance records, operator training logs, and incident reports.
In practice, compliance with the FIU LALG means integrating lifting safety into the core of site management. From pre-use inspections and maintenance schedules to lifting plans and supervision protocols, every element of crane and lifting gear operation must align with the regulatory framework. Training must be provided to operators, signalers, slingers, and maintenance staff, and only qualified personnel should be involved in critical lifting operations. The *Code of Practice for Safe Use of Tower Cranes* reinforces that no lift should proceed unless all checks are completed and all personnel are briefed on their roles and responsibilities.
In summary, the FIU LALG under Cap. 59J is the cornerstone of lifting safety legislation in Hong Kong. It establishes clear duties for equipment owners, operators, examiners, and contractors, supported by mandatory certification, inspection intervals, and usage controls. Understanding and complying with these regulations is not only a legal obligation—it is a fundamental part of responsible construction management. By adhering to the framework provided by the *FIU LALG*, Hong Kong’s construction industry can continue to elevate safety standards and prevent lifting-related accidents across all types of projects.
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