Using Lifting Gear Safely

Posted : Thursday 15th September 2011

This Article takes a brief look at the most important safety factors to consider when using any type of lifting gear products.

Using any type of lifting gear, whether it is a small item like a shackle or chain sling, or a larger device like an electric hoist or jib crane can be hazardous if certain procedures are not followed. Some years ago new regulations were introduced regarding the safe use of lifting gear, this is known as LOLER; or lifting operations and lifting equipment regulations. These regulations also include inspection procedures for lifting devices to ensure they meet the requirements stipulated.

Here are some basic guidelines to follow to help ensure safety whilst using any lifting equipment.

The most basic but important factor to adhere to is the safe working load or SWL of the device, this should always be clearly marked on the device, if it is not clear then do not use it until the swl has been verified either via the supplier or testing by a certified engineer. The safe working load must NEVER be exceeded, and it is recommended not to load the device close to its limit, it is far safer to purchase a device with a swl quite a bit higher than you think you will need, this will allow for small weight calculation errors and will also possibly extend the working life of the device due to the fact that it will not be loaded to its maximum capacity on a regular basis and therefore reducing the stress on the device.

Probably the next most important aspect to consider will be looking after your lifting equipment, a visual check should be made before each use to check for defects, such as loose bolts, deformed chain or cracked weld joints. All types of lifting gear should be inspected by a qualified person at regular intervals, and load tested where appropriate, this procedure should be issued with a new test certificate for your records to show the device is safe to use. Most lifting devices should be inspected on a 6 or 12 monthly basis, a reputable lifting gear company will advise the appropriate testing period for your device. Remember that employers are responsible for making sure machinery and equipment meets all regulations.

Test lifts are recommended prior to the full lifting manoeuvre to ensure the lift is safely balanced and held securely, this is done simply by lifting the object just clear of the ground and held momentarily, if it seems unstable then corrections can be made, this is far better than going straight into a full lift which may not be balanced correctly and subsequently tip and fall, possibly causing serious injury.

All lifting procedures should be carried out in a cautious manner to minimise the risk of injury, especially if the user of the device is not experienced, for example if you are using a chain sling to lift your load, there a  variety of different types of hitches suitable for different loads, and it takes years of experience to know the best one to evenly balance your load about the centre of gravity so that it will not tip. Where possible it is best to have the users trained properly to use some lifting gear devices, or at least follow the user guidelines which should come with the product.

The above mentioned basic guidelines should always be followed, failure to do so could possibly result in injuries, leading to fines, or even worse, a severely disabling injury or even death. Remember, safety first.

 

 

Tagged as: lifting gear, lifting equipment,

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