Posted By Steve Appleton There's no need for someone to be on top of the container - it's just come about because it's the easy option, but with a bit of effort the lifting chains can be attached to each corner by a person on a portable ladder. (Some kind of device to retrieve chains dangling over the centre of the container may be necessary) MEWP's could also be used. I have seen men on top of containers wearing a safety harness (attached to jib of crane) but I wouldn't consider this a good idea. Don't forget, until the new work at height regs come in, the 2m rule applies to work platforms, scaffolds, trestles, MEWP's etc), though the general duties of the HSWA such as prevent injury & safe place of work would apply to your containers