What this template includes
This template covers every section of a compliant Lifting Operations Permit to Work, designed around UK regulatory requirements and the standard expected by insurers and the HSE.
- Permit details — permit number, site, lift location, permit issuer, Appointed Person (AP), Crane Operator/CP, validity period
- Lift description — load description, load weight, lift height, radius, lift category (simple/complex/critical)
- Lifting equipment — equipment type, make/model, serial number, safe working load (SWL)
- LOLER examination record — last thorough examination date, examination due date, examiner, certificate reference
- Appointed Person (AP) designation — name, competency confirmation, Lift Plan reference number
- Ground conditions — ground bearing pressure confirmed, outrigger mat size and type, soft ground/voids assessment
- Exclusion zone — radius, barriers/banksmen in place, overhead lines clearance
- Wind speed assessment — maximum wind speed for operation, current forecast, anemometer reading
- Weather conditions — visibility, precipitation, temperature considerations
- Identified hazards — standard lifting hazards pre-populated (pre-filled version)
- Safety controls & precautions — standard controls pre-populated (pre-filled version)
- AP authorisation — formal sign-off that Lift Plan has been approved and conditions are met
- Crane Operator / CP acknowledgement — confirmation of briefing and Lift Plan receipt
- Lift closure record — lift completed, equipment secured, exclusion zone removed
Pre-filled vs blank — which should I use?
The pre-filled version is the best starting point for most uses. Standard hazards, controls, and procedures are pre-populated — you review them, add or remove items to reflect your specific job and site, and fill in the job-specific details. Think of it as an AI-drafted permit you review and adjust, rather than a form you fill in from scratch.
The blank version has all the same sections but with empty fields throughout. Use this if you prefer to populate everything yourself, or if your organisation has its own standard content you want to use.
How to use this template
- Open the .docx file in Microsoft Word or Google Docs. All sections are clearly labelled.
- Fill in the permit details, work description, and validity period for your specific job.
- Review the hazards and controls. Add site-specific items and remove anything that doesn't apply.
- Complete all checklist fields and inspection records before authorising the permit.
- Print and obtain authorisation and permit holder acknowledgement signatures in person.
- Keep a copy on file. Complete the closure section once work is finished.
Legal requirements
Lifting operations permits are required under the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER). Regulation 8 requires that every lifting operation is properly planned by a competent person, appropriately supervised, and carried out in a safe manner. For complex or critical lifts, a formal Lift Plan and permit are standard industry requirements.
The Appointed Person (AP) is the competent person responsible for planning, organising, and controlling the lifting operation. They must hold a recognised qualification (such as CPCS AP card or LEEA-accredited training) and must approve the Lift Plan before any lift begins. The AP is distinct from the crane operator and does not operate the equipment.
All lifting equipment must be thoroughly examined under LOLER — cranes every 12 months (or 6 months if used to lift people), hoists every 6 months, accessories (slings, shackles) every 6 months. Evidence of current thorough examination must be on site before any lift is authorised.
→ Read our full guide to Lifting Operations permits
Want permits without the paperwork?
Lifting incidents — crane overturns, dropped loads, and outrigger failures — are typically caused by inadequate planning, ground condition failures, or equipment used outside its examination interval. Paper permit processes frequently lack a formal LOLER examination record check before the lift begins.
PermitDesk generates lifting operations permits digitally, with the LOLER examination record, Appointed Person sign-off, and lift plan reference built in, with a full timestamped audit trail from permit issue to lift closure.