Hi all Can anyone clear this up for me with a point in the direction of legislation if possible. During my site inspection I noticed that pre cast concrete units that will be installed to form part of a bridge had "Lifting pins" cast into concrete units. On questioning the Site Manager for valid test certification for the "Lifting pins" he replied that the "Lifting pins" were part of the load and would normally come under his PUWER regime rather than LOLER. I found it strange that we require test certification for the ground that the crane (used to lift the units into place) will sit on, the crane , lifting chains & lifting clutch but not for the item that they are ALL connected to. Further inspection of the concrete units QA documentation only identified that the "Lifting pins" were located as per the design on the construction drawing. QA documentation was also available for the actual "Lifting pins" from the supplier. Further investigation required me to contact the concrete unit supplier to enquire if they tested the "Lifting pins" after casting and before the units left the factory. Their reply was that the "Lifting pins" are installed in line with the manufacturers installation instructions and there is no requirement for them to be tested. My thoughts are, should there be any human error when installing the lifting pins (e.g. air pocket around the pin(s) there is a potential for the pins to be pulled out of the concrete unit as it is being lifted into position, this may then introduce shock load onto the crane. No one else seems concerned: with replies like "its been alright till now" or "nothings never happened before" I am starting to think that maybe I am making a mountain out of a mole hill. I welcome any thoughts,advice & guidance

Hi, I too have heard stories of lifting pins or swift lifts failing, so reckon you are right there with the introduction of testing. The cost would be minimal for the manufacturer.