A lifting method comprising supporting a payload (20) using a first lifting apparatus (18); and activating an emergency lifting apparatus (14) to raise the payload a predetermined distance in response to an emergency signal. The emergency lifting apparatus is configured to be activated to lift the payload a predetermined distance in response to an emergency activation signal. The method and apparatus are particularly useful in the event of a failure of the first lifting apparatus: the emergency lifting apparatus may be activated to lift the payload a relatively small distance sufficient to clear adjacent structures. This may be particularly advantageous in offshore operations, where the first lifting apparatus is supported on a floating vessel which will experience heave.