6 Common Issues (and How to Avoid Them)

Lifting equipment like cranes, hoists, and slings plays a critical role across many industries. When used correctly, it improves efficiency and safety. When it’s not, the consequences can be serious.

Under Australian Work Health and Safety (WHS) legislation, the business responsible for the work must ensure lifting activities are properly planned and carried out safely.

At Certex Lifting, we support our customers by supplying compliant equipment, providing inspection services and offering practical guidance aligned with Australian Standards.

Most lifting incidents aren’t caused by equipment failure, they come down to planning, setup and usage.

Here are six of the most common issues we see and how to avoid them.

1. Using the Wrong Equipment

The issue
Equipment that doesn’t match the load or lifting setup can lead to overloading or instability.

How to avoid it
Always check the Working Load Limit (WLL) and make sure the equipment suits the load, lift type, and environment.

Certex can help you select suitable equipment, but final selection should always be confirmed by someone familiar with the specific lift.

2. Not Properly Assessing the Load

The issue
Incorrect weight estimates or unknown centres of gravity can cause uneven loading and loss of control.

How to avoid it
Before lifting, make sure the load has been properly assessed, including weight, balance and how it will behave when lifted.

Where needed, this should be handled by a competent person such as a dogger or rigger.

3. Poor Rigging Practices

The issue
Incorrect sling use, bad angles, or damaged gear can lead to failure during the lift.

How to avoid it

• Use the right gear for the job
• Keep sling angles as wide as practical
• Protect slings from sharp edges
• Never use damaged equipment

Rigging methods should always align with site procedures and relevant standards.

4. Lack of Planning and Communication

The issue
Unclear roles or poor communication can quickly lead to unsafe situations.

How to avoid it
Every lift should be planned. That includes:

• Clear roles and responsibilities
• Agreed communication methods
• A defined lift path

Good coordination is especially important when the operator can’t see the load.

5. Ignoring Site Conditions

The issue
Wind, ground conditions, and nearby structures can all impact lifting safety.

How to avoid it
Assess conditions before you lift and monitor them as work progresses. If conditions change, stop and reassess.

6. Skipping Inspections or Training

The issue
Using uninspected equipment or untrained personnel increases risk significantly.

How to avoid it

• Inspect equipment regularly
• Keep maintenance up to date
• Make sure personnel are trained and competent

Certex Lifting can support with inspection and certification services, helping you stay compliant and confident in your equipment.

Safer Lifting Starts Before the Lift

Safe lifting isn’t just about the equipment, it’s about how it’s selected, inspected and used.

Certex Lifting is here to support you with:

• Equipment selection
• Inspection and certification
• Practical, standards-aligned guidance

Final responsibility for safe lifting sits with the business carrying out the work, but having the right equipment and support makes all the difference.

Need help with your lifting equipment?

Get in touch with our team to make sure your setup is safe, compliant and fit for purpose.