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HK Builder's Lift Operator (CIC) study materials
HK Builder's Lift Operator (CIC) study resources

HK Builder's Lift Operator (CIC): Builder's lift types, structures and components

HK Builder's Lift Operator (CIC) · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.

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Builder's lift types, structures and components

This domain tests recognition of builder's lift configurations and how the structure carries load. You need to name components correctly and explain what happens when a component is missing, worn or wrongly used.

Common configurations

  • The rack-and-pinion construction hoist is the common builder's lift. A drive pinion on the cage meshes with a vertical rack fixed to the mast.
  • Single-mast and twin-mast arrangements exist. Twin-mast hoists use a wider cage and two mast lines; the load path must be complete on both sides.
  • Passenger/goods hoists may carry people if rated and authorised. Material-only hoists must not carry people.
  • Inclined hoists and wire-rope hoists exist, but the inspection points differ. Always identify the drive type before applying a checklist.

Structure and load path

  • Foundation or base frame receives the load and must be sound, drained and protected.
  • Mast sections are bolted together and tied to the building by tie-in anchors at specified levels. The load path is cage to guide rollers, mast, ties and structure.
  • The cage has guide rollers, gates, a rating plate and a drive unit containing motor, gearbox, brake and pinion.
  • Landing gates, cage gates and interlocks protect the landing edge. Buffers and final stops limit travel.
  • The rating plate and load chart state rated load and any passenger limitation. Do not rely on memory.

Worked example

A twin-mast hoist is found with one tie-in anchor missing at level 6. The cage still runs smoothly and the remaining tie looks tight. Decision: stop use. Smooth running does not prove the load path is complete. A missing tie changes the structural behaviour and may overload adjacent ties and mast sections. Report it, barricade the area if needed, and do not restart until the tie is reinstated and the hoist is checked by the responsible competent person.

Traps that cost marks

  • Calling a builder's lift a crane and applying crane terminology such as counterweight or slewing.
  • Assuming a builder's lift has a counterweight. Most rack-and-pinion hoists do not.
  • Treating mast ties as optional or as mere alignment fittings.
  • Confusing a material-only hoist with a passenger/goods hoist because the cage looks similar.