CPCS Appointed Person: What They Do and Why You Need One

The CPCS Appointed Person (A61) qualification is the gold standard for lifting operations planning in UK construction. This comprehensive guide explains everything contractors need to know about Appointed Persons.

What is a CPCS Appointed Person?

An Appointed Person is someone designated to plan lifting operations under LOLER 1998. The CPCS A61 card is the industry-recognized qualification demonstrating competence to fulfill this critical safety role.

CPCS A61 Qualification

The qualification is structured in two levels:

• A61 Basic - Qualifies holders to plan routine lifts with mobile cranes, excavators, and telehandlers
• A61 Advanced - Extends competence to tower cranes, tandem lifts, and complex operations requiring detailed engineering

When Do You Need an Appointed Person?

BS 7121-1 provides clear guidance. An Appointed Person must plan lifts when:

• Risk to persons exists from the load or equipment
• Specialist knowledge is required for load calculations or ground assessment
• Mobile cranes are used
• Multiple lifts are planned as part of a project

On active construction sites, these criteria apply to almost all lifting operations.

What Does an Appointed Person Actually Do?

The role extends beyond writing lift plans. Responsibilities include:

• Pre-planning assessment - Site visits, information gathering, resource assessment
• Creating lift plans - Equipment specification, load details, site layout, procedures, risk assessment
• Supervision and oversight - Pre-lift briefings, monitoring compliance, authority to stop work

Benefits of Using a CPCS Appointed Person

Legal Protection

• Lifts planned by someone demonstrably competent
• Documentation meets regulatory requirements
• Evidence available for HSE inspections

Technical Expertise

• Proper load calculations prevent overloading
• Ground conditions correctly assessed
• Appropriate equipment specified

Practical Experience

An experienced Appointed Person brings industry knowledge, problem-solving ability, and a professional network for specialist support.

How to Select an Appointed Person

Look for:

• Valid CPCS A61 card (blue or red)
• Relevant sector experience
• Clear communication and professional attributes
• Proactive safety culture

In-House vs Contracted Appointed Persons

Many contractors use a hybrid approach: in-house Appointed Persons for routine work with consultants for complex operations or peak demand periods.

The Future of Appointed Person Services

Technology is changing how Appointed Persons work through lift planning software, 3D modeling, and remote collaboration. Despite technological advancement, core skills—technical judgment, risk assessment, and practical planning—remain fundamentally human activities.