Scout's Toolbox Talks

Personnel Lifts (Man Baskets)

Toolbox Talk:

Follow All Crane Capacity Limits

June 22, 2025

The crane’s load chart must include the basket, occupants, and rigging.

Why It Matters:

Lifting personnel requires tighter safety margins. Even small overloads or miscalculations can lead to tipping, structural failure, or fatal accidents.

Key Points:

  • Use the dedicated personnel lift load chart, not the standard chart.
  • Include the weight of the basket, all tools, personnel, and rigging.
  • Account for boom angle, radius, and wind speed.
  • Use rated capacity reductions as required by OSHA and the crane manufacturer.
  • Never “guess” — stop the lift if calculations are uncertain.

Crane limits aren’t suggestions — they’re safety boundaries.

Ask the Crew:

  • Are we using the correct load chart for personnel lifting?
  • Have we verified the total lift weight, including rigging and tools?
  • Who double-checked our setup today?