Construction shows no signs of slowing down and, used for some of the biggest infrastructure projects in the UK, cranes are set to continue dominating the skyline in 2020. If you’re going to be adding to that view, are you clear on the differences between CPA crane hire and contract lifts?

When hiring a crane, it’s essential to choose the service that best suits your requirements and ensures the safety and well-being of all those involved. Most reputable crane hire companies will offer CPA crane hire and have the skill and expertise to arrange a full contract lift. But how do you know which suits your needs best?

What is CPA crane hire?

If you’ve hired a crane for projects before, CPA (Construction Plant Association) crane hire is a great choice. A  crane hire company will simply provide the crane and an operator who works to your strict instructions on-site – leaving you to plan the lift, select a suitable crane and arrange slinging and signalling.

With CPA hire, you’re also liable for supervising the crane and appointing qualified personnel to oversee the lift. When the crane is on your site, you are responsible for it and must carry out a risk assessment and create a method statement to ensure compliance with BS7121 and LOLER regulations. However, CPA hire provides extra flexibility – allowing you to work under your own steam and at your own pace.

What is a contract lift?

A contract lift is an excellent alternative to CPA crane hire agreements and is ideal if you’ve little experience of crane hire. 

With contract lifts, a suitable crane and qualified operator are supplied by the crane hire provider, and most of the risks and responsibilities lie with them – rather than you.

A reputable crane hire company, such as Bryn Thomas Cranes, will take care of every aspect, from planning the lift and selecting the right crane for the job to designating an appointed person and supervising the entire lift.  Providing you with the peace of mind that your lifts are completed safely.

Deciding between CPA crane hire and contract lift

Both crane hire and contract lifts have their advantages but one of the biggest deciding factors can be how much budget you have to work with, as well as the resources available and insurance.

Contract lifts are more expensive than CPA crane hire, however you won’t incur costs hiring your own team. Crane hire is the cheaper option and is recommended for people who have full infrastructure for carrying out lifts.

If you’re swaying towards CPA crane hire, you must be fully insured against injury and damage to equipment and third parties. However, by arranging a contract lift, you pass the responsibility to the crane provider and they insure the site against damage and are held liable for injury, loss or damage to the goods being lifted.

Still unsure? Give Bryn Thomas Cranes a call on 01352 733 984. They are always on hand to help and will be more than happy to guide and advise you.