Lifting Devices, Cranes & Hoists PSR Requirements in Ontario (Regulation 851 Guide)
Lifting Devices, Cranes & Hoists PSR Requirements in Ontario (Regulation 851 Guide)
Lifting devices such as cranes, hoists, and material handling systems can trigger a Pre-Start Health & Safety Review (PSR) under Ontario Regulation 851 – Industrial Establishments, Section 7.
Any system used to lift, lower, or move materials must be evaluated to determine whether it introduces a regulated hazard requiring engineering review.
Start with the full trigger determination guide:
Regulation 851 PSR Trigger Determination
How Lifting Devices Trigger a PSR
A PSR may be required when lifting equipment introduces hazards related to structural capacity, load handling, or system failure.
Related trigger categories include:
- Machine Guarding Systems
- Combustible Dust Systems
- Flammable Liquid Systems
- Imported Machinery
- Racking Systems
Compliance Snapshot – Lifting Devices PSR
- Legislation: O. Reg. 851, Section 7
- Trigger Category: Lifting / material handling hazards
- Typical Equipment: Overhead cranes, hoists, gantry systems
- Engineer Requirement: Ontario-licensed Professional Engineer
- Timing: Before operation or modification
What Equipment Falls Under This Category?
- Overhead cranes (bridge cranes)
- Jib cranes
- Chain hoists and electric hoists
- Gantry crane systems
- Custom lifting devices
These systems must be evaluated for structural capacity, load control, and operational safety.
When Does Lifting Equipment Require a PSR?
- Installation of new lifting devices
- Modification of existing systems
- Changes to load capacity
- Integration into production systems
The determining factor is whether the system introduces a hazard under Section 7.
Common Compliance Issues
- Unknown or unverified load ratings
- Structural supports not designed for lifting loads
- Improper installation of hoists or cranes
- Lack of engineering documentation
- Modifications without engineering review
These issues can result in serious safety risks and regulatory enforcement.
Engineering Review in a Lifting Device PSR
- Structural capacity verification
- Load rating validation
- Support structure assessment
- Connection and anchorage review
- System configuration evaluation
PSR Services for Lifting Systems
HITE Engineering provides PSR services and engineering review for lifting devices across Ontario.
Pre-Start Health & Safety Review Services
Need a Lifting Device PSR?
Contact HITE Engineering to assess your lifting system before operation.
FAQ: Lifting Device PSR Ontario
Do cranes and hoists require a PSR in Ontario?
They may. If the system introduces a lifting hazard under Section 7, a PSR is required.
Does increasing load capacity trigger a PSR?
Yes. Changes to load ratings must be evaluated by a Professional Engineer.
Who must approve lifting systems?
A Professional Engineer licensed in Ontario must review and approve applicable systems.
Can HITE Engineering assess existing lifting systems?
Yes. We provide assessment, verification, and PSR services for lifting equipment.
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