Precision Lift Operation in Shropshire – Handling 3.5 Tonne Concrete Blocks with Zero Compromise on Safety

At Jim Wise Demolition, we pride ourselves on handling some of the UK’s most complex and heavy-duty site clearance and demolition challenges — and our recent project in Shropshire was no exception.

As part of a wider demolition phase at a large industrial facility, our team was tasked with the removal and safe transportation of 474 reinforced concrete blocks, each weighing an impressive 3.5 tonnes and measuring 4 metres by 1 metre.

🏗️ The Lift Challenge

The operation required strategic planning and flawless coordination to meet tight timescales while adhering to the strictest health and safety standards. The site layout posed access challenges, and the weight and size of the blocks meant there was zero margin for error.

To achieve this, our method included:

• Four 6-ton forklifts working in sync to remove each block
• A carefully calculated lift radius of 38 metres
• Use of certified lifting gear including FLA5 forklift attachments, duplex slings, and 4.75-ton bow shackles
• Controlled handover from forklifts to a 13-ton telehandler
• Secure loading onto flatbed transport vehicles

🦺 Safety First, Always

Every operative on-site was briefed through toolbox talks led by our Site Supervisor, Brian Hall. Full exclusion zones were set up, with banksmen ensuring no unauthorised access during active lifts. All lifting gear was thoroughly inspected and certified, in line with LOLER and PUWER regulations.

Our emergency protocols, manual handling assessments, and weather monitoring procedures were all in place — with documentation updated daily and all risk assessments signed off prior to execution.

🚚 On-Site Sequence

1. Blocks were carefully lifted and moved from the ground to skid supports
2. Transferred to the loading area by forklift
3. Accepted by the telehandler and safely loaded onto flatbeds under banksman control
4. Loads were checked, strapped, and dispatched from site

✅ Results

✔️ 474 lifts completed with no incidents

✔️ Delivered on time and to spec

✔️ Trusted by principal contractors for reliability and safety

If your project involves complex demolition logistics, heavy lift operations, or tight access work zones, the Jim Wise team can deliver.

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📞 01782 437066

🌐 www.jimwisedemolition.co.uk

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