CHAINS AND LIFTING GEAR

CHAINS AND LIFTING GEAR

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

The term 'lifting gear' or 'lifting tackle', covers any piece of equipment used for lifting, that is between the load to be lifted, and the lifting appliance's hook. This covers items such as chain slings, wire rope slings, fibre strops, eye bolts, and shackles, All these items must be in perfect working order, color coded inspected and hold a current test certificate. A large proportion of the accidents that arise from lifting operations stem from faulty slinging, therefore a competent person, ie a rigger, must be appointed to carry out all activities concerning the use of lifting gear

HAZARDS

• Falls of material due to poor slinging
• Overloading of lifting gear in excess of its SWL
• Failure of lifting gear through poor maintenance

HEALTH AND SAFETY POINTS

Chains

• You must elect the right chain for the job and check for deformity, cracked or cut links
• Make sure it is marked with the safe working load which must not be exceeded
• Never tie a knot in a chain to shorten it
• Use only for their intended purpose, do no abuse

Shackles

• Use the right type for the job and make sure it is marked with its safe working load which must not be exceeded
• Carefully examine for damage and distortion
• Always screw the pin right in and check that it does not come loose in use
• Only use proper pins to secure the shackle
• Defective shackles should be destroyed to prevent further usage

Slings

• Select the right sling for the job. Ensure it is marked with the safe working load and suitable for the load to be lifted
• Reject slings if there is any sign of wear or damage
• Protect slings with suitable packing from the sharp edges or corners of the load

Hooks

• Check for distortion, cracks, cuts and dents
• It the hook has opened more than 1/5th of its original dimensions it should be destroyed
• Ensure safety catches operate freely
• Never use anything other than a safety hook or "C" hook

Eye Bolts

• When using an eye bolt make sure it is the right type for the lift you propose
• Examine for damaged threads, cuts, cracks or dents
• Check for wear, if 1/10th or more of the original dimensions it should be destroyed
• Use a shackle if the hook does not fit into the eye bolt

QUSTIONS

• What does SWL stand for?
• How often should we physically check lifting gear?
• Use a shackle if the hook does not fit into the eye bolt?

SAFETY REMINDER

Never use home made hooks or eye bolts. A chain is only as strong as its weakest lind. Never 'bodge' a shackle by using anything other than the proper bolt.