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Posted on: 2 December 2017

When it comes to moving large, overweight objects at a job site, things can move a lot quicker, easier and smoother if you are utilizing an overhead hoist. However, when an overhead hoist is not used properly, it can result in injury or, sometimes even, death. With that being said, when a large piece of machinery is being used, safety should always be the top priority. This is particularly true when you are working with an overhead hoist due to the fact that the items on the move are normally heavy and can result in significant damage if they are dropped. Here are three tips to keep in mind when working with an overhead hoist:

Tip #1: Keep the Maintenance Current.

The key to safety with your overhead hoist is regular maintenance, especially load testing. With load testing, you will always know how much your hoist can safely handle. At the same time, maintenance will help you keep an eye out for any repairs that are necessary to the hoist. Maintenance is not optional; it is mandatory. Otherwise, if something wears out, gives out or breaks down, it could result in the injury of an employee, the injury of a passerby or the damage of property. 

Tip #2: Ensure All Attachments Are Properly Secured.

One of the many reasons that overhead hoist crane accidents occur is due to the attachments, such as slings, being improperly secured. If a sling is not secured properly, it could cause the object being lifted and carried to tip due to being off-balance, slip out, etc. and eventually fall and crash to the ground below. 

If your overhead hoist utilizes a hook latch, double-check to ensure that it is closed completely prior to moving the hoist. The attachment used needs to be sitting on the hook saddle securely before you move and it needs to be sized properly ahead of time. Otherwise, it could disconnect during the move.

Tip #3: Make Sure the Crane Operator Drives Sensibly.

It is important that the person operating the crane, and therefore the hoist, is properly licensed and is aware that he or she needs to be extra cautious with his or her actions while operating the crane and hoist. It is crucial that the hoist is never moved too quickly or jerked when a heavy load is in play, as this could result in the load swinging and potentially spilling. The operator needs to ensure that his or her attention is always fully on the task at hand.

Contact a company like Agin Crane Service for more information and assistance.