Safe Lifting Practices & Load Handling
Pre-lift procedures, rated capacity compliance, side pull avoidance, load height during travel, jogging, plugging, sway control, and directional changes.
- Describe pre-lift procedures and rated capacity compliance
- Explain why side pull is prohibited and its effects on hoist rope
- Apply proper load height and travel techniques
- Identify hazards of jogging, plugging, and sudden directional changes
- Demonstrate sway control techniques
Leçon 1
Pre-Lift Procedures & Rated Capacity Compliance
Before Lifting Any Load
What is required before lifting a load is a pre-lift check that includes knowing the load weight, verifying it is within the crane's rated capacity, confirming the rigging is correct, ensuring the path of travel is clear, and checking that all personnel are clear of the lift zone. The operator must never lift a load without knowing its weight.
Rated Capacity Compliance
The reason to keep the load within rated capacity is to prevent structural failure of the crane, hoist, or rigging, which could cause the load to drop and injure or kill personnel. The rated capacity includes the weight of the hook block, slings, and all rigging hardware - not just the load itself. Exceeding rated capacity can cause wire rope failure, hook straightening, hoist brake failure, or structural collapse of the bridge or trolley.
Never Exceed Rated Capacity
The crane's rated capacity is the maximum load the crane is designed to lift safely. This includes the weight of all rigging gear. Exceeding it by even a small amount can cause catastrophic failure. If the load weight is unknown, do not lift.
Before every lift, verify the load weight is within rated capacity (including rigging hardware), inspect rigging, clear the area, and ensure a clear path of travel. Never lift a load of unknown weight.