Engineering

An engineered crane lift plan is a detailed technical document that analyzes every aspect of a complex lifting operation to ensure safety and efficiency. At TNT Crane & Rigging, our in-house professional engineers use specialized software like AutoCAD, 3D Lift Planner, and Work Planner to create comprehensive plans including crane selection, load calculations, rigging specifications, and ground bearing pressure analysis. Each plan package includes all supporting documentation such as rigging certifications, crane load charts, equipment inspections, and personnel certifications.

A critical lift plan is required when the load exceeds 75 percent of the crane’s rated capacity or when the operation requires more than one crane, as defined by OSHA standards. At TNT Crane & Rigging, we also classify lifts as critical when they involve personnel lifting, non-routine rigging, loads outside the operator’s view, or situations where failure could result in serious consequences. Our engineering team evaluates each project individually to determine the appropriate level of planning required.

While federal OSHA regulations do not mandate a professional engineer stamp on lift plans, many projects have specific contractual requirements or local codes that do require PE certification. At TNT Crane & Rigging, we offer professional engineer review and stamp approval upon request. The decision typically depends on project owner requirements, lift complexity, local building codes, or whether custom-fabricated lifting devices are involved.

Ground bearing pressure analysis calculates the force exerted by crane outriggers or tracks on the ground to ensure the soil can safely support the load without failure or settlement. At TNT Crane & Rigging, our engineers evaluate soil conditions, calculate maximum outrigger loads at various boom positions, and specify the appropriate crane mats or cribbing needed to distribute the load safely. This analysis is critical because inadequate ground support is a leading cause of crane-related incidents.

Engineered lift plan timelines typically range from 2 to 5 business days for standard projects and up to 10 business days for highly complex operations. At TNT Crane & Rigging, critical lift plans requiring professional engineer review generally need 5 business days minimum, while simpler plans can often be completed within 48 hours. Timeline depends on factors including crane configurations required, ground bearing analysis needs, multiple crane involvement, and PE stamping requirements.

To develop an accurate lift plan, we need the weight and dimensions of the load, center of gravity location, lift points and attachment methods, pickup and set-down locations with distances, site layout showing obstructions, and ground conditions. At TNT Crane & Rigging, we also require information about crane access routes, proximity to power lines or utilities, environmental factors like wind exposure, and any special rigging requirements. Complete upfront information ensures accurate engineering analysis and prevents issues during crane operations.

A detailed rigging diagram provides a visual representation of the complete rigging configuration showing how the load will be lifted safely. At TNT Crane & Rigging, our diagrams include load dimensions with center of gravity marked, all rigging components specified by type, size, and capacity, sling angles and attachment points, load tension calculations, and any spreader bars or specialized devices with ratings. These precision drawings ensure clear communication among crane operators, riggers, and site personnel.

Standard lift plans are for routine operations using conventional equipment within normal capacity ranges, typically below 75 percent of crane capacity. Critical lift plans provide extensive engineering analysis for high-risk operations exceeding this threshold or involving complex configurations. At TNT Crane & Rigging, critical lift plans include comprehensive load calculations, detailed ground bearing analysis, specific rigging schematics, contingency planning, designated checkpoints, pre-lift meetings, and often professional engineer review to match the increased risk level.

Lifts exceeding 75 percent of the crane’s rated capacity require critical lift planning according to OSHA regulations and ASME guidelines established in 29 CFR 1926.751. At TNT Crane & Rigging, we note that some organizations use an 80 percent threshold, and individual companies may have more stringent internal policies. Additionally, any lift requiring multiple cranes is automatically classified as critical regardless of capacity percentage.