Carrying people using cranes is one of the most sensitive and strictly regulated activities in lifting operations. While cranes are primarily designed to move materials and equipment, certain situations—such as rescue operations, temporary access to high locations, or structural inspections—may tempt contractors to consider lifting personnel using a crane. However, in Hong Kong, this practice is generally prohibited unless strict conditions are met. Under the *Factories and Industrial Undertakings (Lifting Appliances and Lifting Gear) Regulations (FIU LALG)* and related codes of practice, the use of lifting appliances for transporting persons is allowed only under very specific, controlled, and justified circumstances.
As a baseline principle, Regulation 2.3.13 of the FIU LALG states that lifting appliances shall not be used to carry persons unless the equipment is specifically designed for that purpose or has been adapted in compliance with legal and safety standards. This means that ordinary crane lifting platforms, buckets, or suspended cages cannot be used to carry people unless they have been properly engineered, tested, certified, and authorized. Any unauthorized use of cranes to lift persons may result in legal penalties for the site controller, crane owner, and competent person involved.
When carrying persons is deemed necessary and no safer alternative is available, the operation must follow a stringent set of safety protocols. First and foremost, a full *risk assessment* must be conducted, identifying why alternative means (such as scaffolding, mobile elevating work platforms, or permanent access structures) are not viable. The risk assessment must address hazards such as sudden crane movement, mechanical failure, power loss, environmental exposure, and emergency evacuation. A detailed *method statement* must also be prepared, outlining every step of the operation, from preparation and communication to post-lift checks.
Only specially designed *man-riding cages* or platforms may be used to carry personnel. These platforms must be purpose-built, equipped with guardrails, toe boards, anchorage points for safety harnesses, anti-slip flooring, and overhead protection. According to the *Code of Practice for Safe Use of Tower Cranes*, these cages must be securely attached to the crane hook using certified slings and locking devices that prevent rotation or tipping. The entire lifting configuration must be tested and certified for both structural strength and lifting safety by a competent examiner before use. A *certificate of fitness for man-lifting* must be issued and kept on-site.
The crane to be used must have precise and smooth control systems, including functioning Safe Load Indicators (SLIs), limit switches, and emergency stop functions. Only cranes with a proven record of reliability and recent maintenance clearance should be considered for personnel lifting. It is strictly prohibited to use cranes with jerky, inconsistent, or partially functioning hoisting systems. Moreover, the crane operator must be competent, certified, and familiar with the specific demands of lifting persons.
Communication is critical during any man-lifting operation. A two-way radio system must be used between the crane operator and a designated ground supervisor or signaler. Hand signals alone are not sufficient. In some cases, the person inside the cage may also need a communication device to speak directly to the crane operator in the event of unexpected movement or discomfort. No lift should begin without confirming that communication systems are tested and fully operational.
Weather conditions must also be considered. Carrying persons with a crane is strictly prohibited during high winds, heavy rain, thunderstorms, or poor visibility. Even minor gusts can cause cage swaying or crane instability, which presents serious risks to the lifted individual. Wind speed should be monitored using an anemometer, and operations should cease when conditions exceed manufacturer or safety code recommendations—generally around 9 m/s for man-lifting scenarios.
According to Labour Department guidance, all such operations must be authorized by the site’s *competent person* and approved in writing by the *Principal Contractor*. Additionally, they may require notification to or consultation with the Labour Department, especially on public or high-risk sites. The competent examiner responsible for issuing the fitness certificate must have knowledge of man-riding safety criteria, and the certificate must clearly state the number of persons to be lifted, maximum duration, and operational limitations.
Post-lift inspections are mandatory. The lifting gear, man cage, and crane components must be checked immediately after the operation for any signs of stress, wear, or malfunction. A report should be generated and signed by the lifting supervisor and operator, confirming that the lift was completed without incident and that all systems are functioning as required.
Legal consequences for unauthorized person-lifting using cranes are severe. If an accident occurs involving a person lifted by a non-compliant crane system, the responsible parties may face fines of up to HK$400,000 and imprisonment for 12 months under the *FIU LALG*. Additionally, they may face criminal charges under the *Occupational Safety and Health Ordinance* and civil liabilities for injury or death. Even in the absence of an incident, Labour Department inspectors may issue immediate suspension notices and prosecute for unsafe practices if lifting persons is attempted without proper approval and certification.
In summary, while cranes are capable of lifting heavy loads, carrying people is a regulated exception—not a routine practice. The law is clear: unless the crane, lifting gear, and platform are specifically designed, tested, and certified for personnel lifting, such operations are strictly prohibited. By adhering to the legal framework provided in the *FIU LALG*, and following the detailed procedures in the *Code of Practice* and Labour Department safety guidelines, construction professionals can ensure that when man-lifting is absolutely necessary, it is done with the highest level of safety and compliance.
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