COURSE OVERVIEW:
Welcome to the Safe Multi-Lift Operations in High-Risk Rigging Worksites course. This program has been developed to equip you with the knowledge, risk controls, and procedural frameworks required to safely plan, execute, and supervise multi-lift operations in high-risk rigging environments, in full compliance with Australian WHS legislation and standards.
Multi-lift operations involve the simultaneous or sequential lifting of multiple loads or a single load supported by more than one crane or lifting device. These procedures are inherently complex and carry elevated risk, including potential for uncontrolled movement, equipment failure, and serious injury. This course begins by defining the scope and classification of multi-lift operations within the context of high-risk rigging, and highlights the critical importance of coordination, equipment compatibility, and regulatory compliance in preventing accidents and ensuring safe outcomes.
Strict regulatory requirements govern all aspects of high-risk rigging work. This section introduces the WHS Regulations, High Risk Work Licence obligations, and relevant Australian Standards such as AS 2550 (crane operations), AS 4991 (lifting devices), and AS/NZS 4801 (occupational health and safety management systems). You will also explore the responsibilities of PCBUs, lifting supervisors, and certified riggers in planning and executing safe multi-lift activities.
Proper planning is essential to minimise risk. This section outlines how to develop a Lift Plan that addresses load sequencing, lift geometry, exclusion zones, and ground conditions. You will also learn how to obtain appropriate authorisations, prepare Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS), and complete job safety analysis (JSA) specific to multi-lift operations.
Multi-lift activities present distinct hazards. This section identifies unique risks such as load swing, dynamic forces, communication breakdowns between teams, and shifting centre of gravity during lifts. You will explore strategies for managing these risks through structured controls and situational awareness.
Equipment selection directly affects lift safety. This section focuses on how to choose slings, spreader bars, shackles, and attachments that are fit for multi-lift use. It includes guidance on verifying lifting gear certification, checking compatibility of all components, and confirming crane lifting capacities before task commencement.
Understanding load characteristics is critical. This section explores how to assess combined load weights, balance points, and centre of gravity. You will also learn how to calculate lift angles, evaluate asymmetrical loads, and account for dynamic factors that affect lift stability.
Site setup must support safe execution. This section explains how to establish exclusion zones, mark lift paths, ensure stable terrain, and eliminate overhead or lateral hazards. Pre-lift inspection of ground conditions and access routes is emphasised as a key preparation step.
Clear communication is vital for multi-lift coordination. This section covers how to conduct pre-lift toolbox meetings, confirm agreed hand signals, allocate two-way radios, and establish fallback protocols. You will also learn how to review the lift sequence and assign emergency roles across the team.
Rigging technique must be precise and synchronised. This section explains how to manage load alignment using taglines, shared communication, and synchronised signal calling. You will also explore how to avoid shock loading, twisting, or unintended rotation—particularly in dual-crane or tandem lift scenarios.
Doggers and spotters are critical for observation and control. This section outlines their role in maintaining line of sight, relaying instructions, and identifying early signs of instability. They serve as the link between riggers and operators and are vital for maintaining situational awareness throughout the lift.
Lift sequencing must follow a structured approach. This section explores how to coordinate crane movement, control simultaneous lifts, and manage load adjustments in real time. You will also learn how to identify out-of-sync movements and initiate hold or reset procedures as required.
Dynamic movement must be actively managed. This section focuses on the impact of wind, vibration, and shifting structural loads. You’ll learn how to use hold positions, guide ropes, and countermeasures to stabilise suspended loads and maintain control throughout the lift cycle.
Emergency preparedness is non-negotiable. This section provides procedures for managing equipment failure, load drop, or worker injury. It includes evacuation protocols, communication with site emergency responders, and post-incident isolation of the lift area to prevent secondary harm.
Rigging gear must be inspected routinely. This section outlines how to conduct pre- and post-lift inspections, identify wear or damage, and tag out unsafe components. You will also learn how to maintain detailed inspection records to support traceability and compliance.
Environmental factors can rapidly alter lift safety. This section explains how to monitor wind thresholds, visibility, and surface conditions. You’ll learn how to plan around weather forecasts, respond to sudden changes during lifts, and temporarily suspend operations when limits are exceeded.
Documentation supports safety and accountability. This section covers the completion of lift checklists, supervisor sign-offs, and incident reports. You’ll also learn how to record changes to the lift plan and apply learnings from near misses to support continuous improvement.
Competency must be maintained at all times. This section reviews licensing and verification of competency (VOC) requirements for riggers, doggers, and crane operators. It also includes site-specific induction protocols and refresher training for high-risk multi-lift tasks.
Safety culture underpins all lift activities. This final section focuses on building a rigging environment where communication, accountability, and hazard reporting are prioritised. You’ll explore how to reinforce safe behaviours in daily pre-starts, recognise proactive team members, and embed lift safety as a core site value.
By the end of this course, you will be equipped with the skills, compliance understanding, and practical procedures required to safely coordinate and execute multi-lift operations in high-risk rigging environments—ensuring the protection of personnel, assets, and project outcomes.
Each section is complemented with examples to illustrate the concepts and techniques discussed.
LEARNING OUTCOMES:
By the end of this course, you will be able to understand the following topics:
1. Introduction to Multi-Lift Operations in Rigging
- Defining multi-lift operations in the context of rigging work
- Understanding why multi-lift procedures are classified as high-risk
- Overview of safety, coordination, and legal obligations
2. Regulatory Requirements and Compliance Standards
- WHS Regulations and Safe Work Australia’s High Risk Work Licence requirements
- Australian Standards (AS 2550, AS 4991, AS/NZS 4801)
- Roles of PCBUs, lifting supervisors, and certified riggers
3. Planning and Permitting for Multi-Lift Activities
- Developing a Lift Plan including load sequencing and lift zone control
- Obtaining authorisation from site managers or engineers
- Ensuring task-specific SWMS and JSA are in place and reviewed
4. Identifying Risks Unique to Multi-Lift Rigging Work
- Load swing, tag line interference, and overloading
- Miscommunication between multiple riggers and operators
- Equipment failure, miscalculation, or shifting centre of gravity
5. Selecting the Right Lifting Equipment and Gear
- Choosing slings, spreader bars, and shackles suited to multi-lifts
- Ensuring lifting points and attachments are certified and compatible
- Verifying the lifting capacity of cranes and hoisting gear
6. Assessing Load Characteristics and Lift Geometry
- Understanding combined load weights and centre of gravity
- Assessing load symmetry, balance, and shape
- Calculating lift angles and dynamic load factors
7. Preparing the Worksite for Safe Multi-Lift Operations
- Establishing exclusion zones and marking lift paths
- Ensuring stable ground conditions and clear access
- Removing overhead and lateral obstructions
8. Pre-Lift Meetings and Communication Protocols
- Conducting toolbox talks with crane operators, riggers, and doggers
- Confirming hand signals, two-way radio channels, and fallback systems
- Reviewing load sequence and emergency stop procedures
9. Rigging Techniques for Coordinated Multi-Lift Procedures
- Using taglines and synchronised signal calling
- Managing dual crane lifts or shared loads
- Avoiding twist, rotation, or shock loading
10. Role of Doggers and Spotters in Multi-Lift Scenarios
- Directing crane movements with precise, clear instructions
- Watching for load instability or interference
- Acting as an intermediary between riggers and operators
11. Managing Lift Sequencing and Load Synchronisation
- Lifting in a coordinated and pre-determined sequence
- Ensuring simultaneous control when using two cranes
- Monitoring real-time movement and adjusting as needed
12. Controlling Dynamic Loads and Unexpected Movement
- Addressing load swing and vibration during lifts
- Responding to wind, equipment flex, or structural shifts
- Using guide ropes, buffers, and hold positions safely
13. Emergency Procedures and Incident Response
- Lowering loads safely during equipment failure or instability
- Evacuating personnel from the exclusion zone
- Notifying site emergency services and logging the incident
14. Inspection and Maintenance of Rigging Equipment
- Pre- and post-lift inspection of all rigging gear
- Identifying wear, deformation, or fatigue in components
- Keeping inspection records and tagging unsafe equipment
15. Environmental and Weather Considerations
- Assessing safe wind speed thresholds for multiple lift operations
- Planning around rain, lightning, or limited visibility
- Monitoring changes during lift operations and adjusting accordingly
16. Documenting and Reviewing the Multi-Lift Operation
- Completing lift checklists and operational sign-offs
- Recording changes to the lift plan or control measures
- Submitting incident reports, near miss logs, and continuous improvement notes
17. Training and Competency Requirements for Multi-Lift Work
- Licensing and VOC requirements for riggers and crane operators
- Site-specific inductions and refresher training
- Ensuring only qualified personnel participate in multi-lift setups
18. Embedding a Safety Culture in High-Risk Rigging Work
- Promoting team communication and peer accountability
- Recognising workers who identify and act on lift hazards
- Reinforcing safe lift practices in daily pre-starts and safety meetings
COURSE DURATION:
The typical duration of this course is approximately 2-3 hours to complete. Your enrolment is Valid for 12 Months. Start anytime and study at your own pace.
COURSE REQUIREMENTS:
You must have access to a computer or any mobile device with Adobe Acrobat Reader (free PDF Viewer) installed, to complete this course.
COURSE DELIVERY:
Purchase and download course content.
ASSESSMENT:
A simple 10-question true or false quiz with Unlimited Submission Attempts.
CERTIFICATION:
Upon course completion, you will receive a customised digital “Certificate of Completion”.