Can anybody here advise me it it is ok to connect the retractable lanyard directly to crane hook. The activity is stacking pipes about 5 layers and there is no place to anchor the retractable lanyard except to the hook of the crane. Is this safe?. Any advice is appreciated.

In theory yes, however the practicalities can be a little more difficult. You need to ensure that operatives remain directly under the hook as a move to either side away from the vertical could lead to a pendulum effect should a fall happen. Another consideration is the potential for mis-operation of the crane or adverse weather conditions which could lead to the operative being dragged or lifted, also should the operative become suspended a recovery/rescue plan. With a good dose of risk assessment and a robust safe working procedure communicated to all involved parties I don't see any reason why you can't go ahead. Andy

I agree, it can be done if all of the correct controls are inplace. The crane / hook needs positioning and the crane contols need isolating locally so controls cannot accidentally be operated but allow power to be quickly restored if necessary. Ensure that nothing can collide with the crane or anything else that can adversly affect the operation. The crane will need a thorough examination by an independant competent person for lifting persons nb this is additional to the statutory exam. The crane may also require modifications to the hoist break, hoist limits and controllers to permit this type of use of the crane. Ask you Competent Person. This is all covered in LOLER somewhere. Although I do not understand how your pipe stacking is being done and why you need someone attaching to a crane hook; I would be trying to find a safer system of stacking that does not involve someone working at height Steve