CPA Crane Hire or Contract Lift – What’s the Difference?
Mobile crane hire provides the equipment and operator, but splits responsibilities based on the type of agreement: CPA Crane Hire or Contract Lift. The primary difference is who manages the lift and takes legal liability for safety, insurance, and planning.
CPA Crane Hire (Standard Terms)
Under standard Construction Plant-hire Association (CPA) terms, you (the hirer) are completely responsible for the lifting operation.
- Your Responsibilities: You must supply the qualified Appointed Person (AP), plan the lift, write the Risk Assessments and Method Statements (RAMS), and provide slingers/signallers. You also hold the legal liability and insurance for any damage to the crane, the load, and third parties.
- The Crane Company’s Responsibility: Simply to provide a well-maintained crane and a competent operator who will work under your direct instructions.
- When to use: Choose this if you have in-house lifting expertise, your own Appointed Person, and proper insurance in place.
View the CPA Model Conditions for the Hiring of Plant
CPA Contract Lift
In a Contract Lift, the crane company acts as a turnkey lifting contractor and manages the entire process “cradle to grave”.
- The Crane Company’s Responsibilities: The supplier takes full legal liability and control. They will conduct site visits, create the lifting plan, provide the crew (Appointed Person, supervisor, slingers), and hold specific Goods Lifted and Public Liability insurance.
- Your Responsibilities: You are only required to provide site access and verify that the ground conditions are suitable for the crane’s load.
- When to use: Choose a Contract Lift if your business lacks qualified lifting personnel or if the lift is highly complex, protecting you from legal and insurance burdens.
View the CPA Standard Terms and Conditions for Contract Lifting Services
