First, describe the work and worksite
A specialist facade crew will crane-set a factory-glazed unitized curtain-wall module at a released upper-floor position on a stabilized steel-frame building. Installers receive the module from protected floor-side positions. This fictional learning example describes planned controls; it records no actual inspection or work authorization.
- Module weight, proprietary lifting points, anchors and connection sequence are defined in approved facade/erection documents.
- The employer establishes applicable steel-erection and fall provisions, protected receiving access and rescue arrangements for this operation.
- Loose-pane glazing, field structural-silicone bonding, suspended-platform erection and using the module as fall protection are excluded.
Questions before work
- Which document verifies the complete glazed module’s lifting attachment?
- How are installers protected while the module enters the facade opening?
- What confirms anchor engagement and stability before crane release?
Build the analysis one step at a time
What will the worker do? How could someone be harmed? What prevents or reduces that exposure? Who checks the control, and when?
1. Release the facade bay
Hazard: Unready anchors or an unstable receiving structure can permit module collapse.
Control: Facade lead verifies frame/bay release, anchors and the approved setting sequence. Identify interfaces with edge protection and floors below; keep work on hold for incomplete supports.
Verification: Lead compares the bay and module marks with current facade documents.
Why this belongs in the analysis: A factory-glazed unit still depends on site anchor readiness.
2. Protect receiving positions
Hazard: An open facade or crane load can expose installers to falls and crushing.
Control: Establish the planned protected positions, fall system and rescue arrangements before any edge protection changes. Separate lower levels and keep installers out of the approaching module’s path.
Verification: Erection/facade lead checks receiving access and protection before pickup.
Why this belongs in the analysis: The module’s arrival changes the facade opening but does not remove fall exposure.
3. Rig the complete module
Hazard: Glass, frame or lifting attachments can fail if used outside their design.
Control: Qualified rigging personnel verify module condition, weight and the proprietary lifting arrangement. Lift through the specified points; do not assume a vacuum device rated for a loose pane can lift the entire framed module.
Verification: Rigger matches attachments and module identification with the lift instructions.
Why this belongs in the analysis: The framed assembly has a different load path from its glass pane.
4. Bring the module into position
Hazard: Wind can rotate a large module into workers or the building.
Control: Use the agreed crane signals and planned orientation controls within the specified wind limits. Keep people clear of the suspended assembly and receive it from protected positions without reaching through crush gaps.
Verification: Signal person and receiving lead monitor control and clearance throughout approach.
Why this belongs in the analysis: Large glazed modules present substantial wind area.
5. Engage and verify anchors
Hazard: A partially engaged bracket can release after the crane disconnects.
Control: Complete the documented bearing, anchor engagement and restraint checks while crane support remains. Verify the required hold points and obtain designated release before unrigging; do not rely on appearance or one engaged corner.
Verification: Facade lead records actual anchor checks against the approved setting criteria.
Why this belongs in the analysis: Connection completion must be confirmed before support transfer.
6. Secure and hand over the bay
Hazard: Unfinished joints or missing edge protection can expose later crews.
Control: Maintain required protection, identify unfinished joints and restrict loading/access under the facade stage release. Transfer module and anchor status to the weatherseal and inspection teams.
Verification: Receiving lead confirms protection and open actions at handover.
Why this belongs in the analysis: Module setting does not settle weatherseal or final facade acceptance.
What does a useful control look like?
| Needs improvement | More useful for this scenario |
|---|---|
| Work carefully and wear PPE. | Qualified rigging personnel verify module condition, weight and the proprietary lifting arrangement. Lift through the specified points; do not assume a vacuum device rated for a loose pane can lift the entire framed module. |
| Check that everything is ready. | Facade lead verifies frame/bay release, anchors and the approved setting sequence. Identify interfaces with edge protection and floors below; keep work on hold for incomplete supports. |
Decisions that change the analysis
Can a pane-rated vacuum lifter handle a complete curtain-wall module?
Only if the actual device and complete-module arrangement are specifically approved for that load and surface. This example uses the module’s defined lifting points; it does not extend the ground-level loose-pane lifting example.
What must the crew record for actual use?
Identify the actual equipment and work boundaries, responsible people, applicable criteria, inspection findings and open actions. Resolve changes with affected crews and obtain required project authorization before work.
Agree when the crew will pause
- Module damage, lifting uncertainty or lost wind control.
- Unready anchor, unexpected fit or incomplete engagement.
- Receiving protection, crane communication or lower-level exclusion fails.
After a pause, correct the condition, reassess the work, and obtain required authorization before restarting. Keep unresolved actions visible.
Download the worked example and free template
No account or paid membership required. The worked example contains planned controls. The blank template is for your own work; neither includes fabricated inspection results, signatures or approval.
Your editable working copy
Build and download your draft
Start blank or load the learning example. Replace its assumptions with your actual conditions and involve the people doing the work. Your entries stay in this browser tab; download a copy before leaving or refreshing.
1. Describe your work and site
2. Work through each task
Describe an observable step, how someone could be harmed, and the control that acts on that hazard. Identify who checks it and what evidence is needed.
3. Record changes, checks, and open actions
Walk the work area, review with the crew, and resolve missing controls. Follow the required approval process. This tool does not judge completeness, verify signatures or authorize work.
Open the downloaded file in a browser, then use Print → Save as PDF for a printable copy.
Training needs to confirm
- Module-specific erection, anchor engagement and crane-release instruction with applicable lift qualifications.
- Applicable steel-erection/fall training and facade receiving/rescue responsibilities.
Confirm applicable qualifications, task instruction and actual training evidence for the people assigned. Related toolbox talks support crew discussion; they do not establish competence.
Common questions
Can this example be used as a JSA?
Adapt its Task | Hazard | Control analysis to the employer’s format and actual conditions. The example is a teaching aid, not evidence that controls were checked.
What changes if the project requires an AHA?
Use the governing AHA format, risk method, supporting records and acceptance process. The published formwork AHA demonstrates that additional structure; changing a JHA title does not supply it.
Are these resources part of a paid course?
This walkthrough, browser draft builder and downloads are free public resources, separate from Academy course enrollment.
References and source note
- OSHA 1926.761 Steel erection training
- OSHA 1926.760 Steel erection fall protection
- OSHA 1926.21 Safety training and education
Original instructional scenario with planned controls. Primary references support hazard planning. Use actual equipment and product instructions, project design and employer requirements to establish field criteria. Use actual equipment instructions and site requirements alongside these references. Reference review: October 9, 2026.