Parvez As long as it is managed properly i.e. risk assessment lifting plan (make sure the quick hitch attachment is taken into account on any lift plan) to ensure the 360 excavator can comfortably lift the weight of the pipe within in the SWL of the machine competent slingler signaller the HSE web site has some good information on lifting with excavators link attached http://www.hse.gov.uk/co...ction/faq-excavators.htm at the bottom of this page is a link to more info or pm me and I will forward on some information Chris

There is no reason why you can't use an excavator for lifting operations providing you follow the right procedures and ensure that the actual excavator as well as any attachments have been thoroughly examined as required under LOLER. This might give you some guidance: http://www.cpa.uk.net/as...20Cranes-Rev2-090301.pdf