When it comes to modern construction, infrastructure projects, and industrial operations, the use of heavy lifting machinery is indispensable. While many large firms own their own fleets, a vast number of businesses, from small-scale builders to event organisers, rely on crane hire to get the job done. Understanding the options available is crucial for ensuring a safe and efficient lifting operation.
The lifting industry typically offers two primary methods of hire, each with its own level of responsibility and suitability for different projects. The first is CPA (Construction Plant-hire Association) hire, also known as a ‘bare hire’. Under this agreement, the client is responsible for all aspects of the lift. This includes providing a qualified and competent Appointed Person to plan the lift, a crane operator, a slinger/signaller, and a lift supervisor. The client also takes on full legal liability and insurance for the duration of the hire. This option is generally preferred by experienced contractors with their own trained personnel and an in-house understanding of lifting operations.
In contrast, a contract lift offers a complete, all-inclusive service.1 This is ideal for those who lack the in-house expertise or prefer to outsource the entire lifting process to the professionals. With a contract lift, the hire company assumes full responsibility for the lift, from the initial site visit and risk assessment to the creation of a detailed method statement.2The company provides all the necessary personnel, including the crane, a qualified operator, and the required site supervisors and slingers. All insurance and legal liabilities are managed by the hire company, providing peace of mind and a single point of contact for the entire operation. This approach ensures all lifting procedures are carried out in full compliance with British Standard codes of practice, such as BS 7121.
Beyond mobile crane hire Peterborough, the world of lifting and access equipment extends to a variety of other useful machinery. For jobs requiring straight vertical lifts, scissor lifts provide a stable platform for workers and equipment, making them perfect for indoor or outdoor applications where working at height is necessary.3 For tasks that require reaching up and over obstacles, cherry pickers or boom lifts are the go-to solution. These versatile machines come in articulated forms, offering excellent sideways outreach and access to confined spaces. Many modern indoor machines are also battery-powered and fitted with non-marking tyres, ensuring they can be used safely in sensitive environments without damaging finished flooring.4
The range of cranes themselves varies significantly to meet diverse project needs. A modern fleet can include cranes with lifting capacities from a modest 30 tonnes up to a powerful 200 tonnes.5 The choice of crane is determined by the weight and size of the load, the required lifting height, and the available space on site. Many firms update their fleets with cutting-edge machinery to ensure high performance and safety.6
Ultimately, whether you require a simple crane for a single lift or a comprehensive contract lift for a complex project, understanding the distinction between the two main hire options is the first step towards a successful and safe operation. Selecting the right equipment and service for the job ensures efficiency and compliance, making every lift as smooth as possible.