Planning Safe Lift and Shift Projects with FESS Equipment
FESS Group’s practical guide to safer, smarter equipment movement on site
Whether you’re installing new machinery, repositioning plant, or relocating an entire production line, lift and shift projects come with serious risks – from injury and equipment damage to costly downtime.
At FESS Group, we’ve managed hundreds of safe lift and shift operations across factories, warehouses, and food production sites. Our secret? Planning, precision, and the right equipment.
We’ve written this guide to help you understand the key steps and highlight how FESS Hire’s equipment range supports each one.
🟧 1. Start with a Site & Risk Assessment
Before anything moves, you need eyes on the job. Assess:
- Entry and exit points
- Floor loadings and ceiling heights
- Obstructions (pipes, pits, power lines)
- Working at height or in confined space risks
- Manual handling restrictions
At FESS Group, we handle this phase as part of our consultancy service, ensuring nothing gets missed.
🟧 2. Define the Lift Plan
Every project is different. Your lift plan should clearly outline:
- What’s being moved (spec, weight, fragility)
- Route from A to B
- Lift method (manual, powered, or combination)
- Required equipment and accessories
- Safety controls (barriers, signage, permits)
- Timeline and contingency plan
Tip: Don’t guess–plan. A rushed lift is a risky one.
🟧 3. Choose the Right Equipment from FESS Hire
FESS Hire provides a comprehensive range of lift & shift tools to support safe, efficient on-site movement. Popular options include
• Pallet Trucks & Toe Jacks – for low-level lifting and positioning
• Machine Skates – for heavy-plant movement across smooth floors
• Hoists & Winches – ideal for vertical lifting in tight spaces
• Manual Stackers – compact and perfect for low-clearance lifting
• Forklifts & Reach Trucks – available with gas, electric or diesel power
• Telehandlers – when you need height, reach and load flexibility
• Truck Cranes – for full outdoor lifting and off-loading
• Access Platforms – work at height safely while repositioning services
👉 Download the brochure for equipment specs and safe usage advice
Why Planning is the Best Risk Control
According to HSE, most lift & shift injuries occur due to poor planning, rushed decision-making, or the wrong equipment choice.
At FESS Group, we work alongside your internal teams to:
- Create method statements and RAMS
- Manage suppliers, transport and logistics
- Provide on-site lift supervisors or full contract lift services
- Ensure compliance with LOLER and PUWER
Your reputation – and your team’s safety – depend on getting this right.
Why We Trust FESS Hire
We recommend FESS Hire to our clients because:
- Equipment is LOLER tested and compliant
- Delivery is on time, nationwide
- The team offers real technical support, not just drop-offs
- Flexible hire options suit planned and reactive work
Get the Tools and Support You Need
👉 Download the New FESS Hire Brochure
👉 Book a call with our Lift & Shift specialists at FESS Group
Need help planning your next lift? We’re here to take the pressure off.
FESS Hire – Smart Hire, Hassle-Free
Your project. Our expertise.
📞 Questions? Contact FESS Hire here:
Or call us now 0345 257 2007
Do you need advice?
Contact FESS Group now about your project. Our dedicated Project Management Team has a wealth of experience and uses a process developed and refined over 35 years working on projects of all sizes.