Lifting is a key part of almost all offshore and subsea operations. It can range from lifting of stores and spares handling through to complicated and heavy lifts and there could be in excess of 200 different lifting operations on a vessel. Each lift brings with it the possibility of injury to people and damage to equipment, but with proper planning hazards can be identified and risks reduced or eliminated. Regardless of whether a complex and perceived high-risk project or a comparatively straightforward, every day task, proper risk assessment, comprehensive lift planning and safety awareness throughout a lift team can help to avoid incidents.

These guidelines set out procedures and basic criteria based on the existing practices of members operating safely around the world. It is intended to show essential components that should be in included in company procedures for lifting operations and to offer advice on the steps within a lifting operation process that will promote safety. While primarily aimed at subsea lifting operations, the principles described are relevant to all offshore lifting operations and generally to lifting operations anywhere.

These guidelines are also available with the reference IMCA SEL 019.