12 May 25
There are times when an excavator is required to perform lifting work. It’s not ideal, and it’s not what they’re designed for—but on real sites, with real constraints, it happens.
RCI Lite is built for those situations. It’s a reliable, no-fuss system that provides overload protection for any hydraulic excavator, giving operators the tools they need to work safely without compromising control. The system delivers accurate load monitoring and, if required, motion control to prevent unsafe operation. It’s a simple way to stay within lifting limits while still utilising the machine to its full potential.
One of the advantages of RCI Lite is that it doesn’t get in the way. When lifting isn’t required, it can be switched to a basic digging mode, making it ideal for excavating level trenches or basements. That means there’s no need to remove or disable anything—just get on with the job.
The system comes as standard with a clear, easy-to-read display and an external audible alarm. It’s maintenance-free apart from periodic inspections, which helps keep downtime and running costs low. Where site conditions call for more control or visibility—such as busy jobs, shared machines or more complex lifts—optional features like a supervisor key switch, internal alarm, external warning light and telematics can be added to suit the way the machine is being used..
RCI Lite is ideal for general civil lifting activities where you need something practical, affordable and easy to use — not a full-blown lifting control system.
If your team is lifting with excavators, you’ll want to ensure they’re doing it safely and in compliance with regulations. The Strategic Forum Plant Safety Group has clear guidance on this, and using something like RCI Lite helps you stay on the right side of it.
The Strategic Forum’s guidance on lifting with excavators makes it clear that while an excavator isn’t the first choice for lifting, there are times when its use is justifiable. When that happens, the right safety systems must be in place, and the lifting operation has to be planned, supervised and carried out properly. RCI Lite helps you meet that standard.
Download the CPA’s official guidance here: Strategic Forum Plant Safety Group – Lifting with Excavators
