Category: Lifting

Single-leg sling:

Vertical or straight lift (Fig-1) :

A vertical or straight lift is only suitable for lifting a load that will be stable when suspended from a single lifting point.

Basket hitch (Fig-2 ):

A basket hitch should only be used when the sling is passed through part of the load and the load is balanced on the sling. The lifting should not commence until a shackle is connected to the sling legs. The included angle of the sling should not exceed 90 degrees.

Simple Choker Hitch (Fig-3) and Double and Choked (Fig-4) :

These two slinging methods do not grip the loads completely and should be used only when the loads are easily stabilized or cannot slip out of the sling.

Choker hitch double wrapped (Fig-5) :

The general limitations for this sling method is similar with simple choker hitch, except that with the double wrapped choker hitch the load is gripped more fully, and hence is secured more effectively.

The simple choker hitch or choker hitch double wrapped method should not be used for handling composite loads such as loose bundles of tubes, or bars or wooden battens unless the friction grips between the parts is sufficient to prevent them slipping from the sling. As far as possible, such composite loads should first be tied up securely at their ends by steel wires or similar means of adequate strength.

Multi-leg sling:

A multi-leg sling may have two, three or four legs (Fig-6 to 12 ). It provides a more stable lifting arrangement than a single-leg sling.

Generally, multi-leg sling methods are :

• two-leg slings used with direct attachment (Fig. 6);

• two-leg slings used in choker hitch (Fig. 7);

• two-leg slings used in basket hitch (Fig. 8);

• two-leg slings used in double wrap choker hitch (Fig. 9)

• two-leg slings used in double wrap basket hitch (Fig. 10);

• three-leg slings used in direct attachment (Fig. 11); and

• four-leg slings used with direct attachment (Fig. 12).

When using multi-leg slings, care should be taken to ensure that:

1) the slings are of the same length;

2) where the slings have different safe working load ratings then the load that can be lifted is related to the least safe working load; and

3) the attachment points of a two-leg sling to the load are far enough apart to give stability without exceeding 90 degrees (Fig. 6, 7 & 9). In the case of two-leg sling used in basket hitch or a four-leg sling, the angle between any two diagonally opposite legs should not exceed 90 degrees (Fig. 8, 10 & 12) unless the sling is so marked. In no circumstances should the included angle exceed 120 degrees. For a three-leg sling, any one leg should make an angle of not greater than 45 degrees with the vertical.

The two-leg slings used in choker hitch, basket hitch, double wrap choker hitch and double wrap basket hitch should not be used for handling composite loads such as loose bundles or tubes, bars or wooden battens unless the friction grips between the parts is sufficient to prevent them slipping from sling. As far as possible, such composite loads should first be tied up securely at their ends by steel wires or similar means of adequate strength.

BASKET HITCHES -Right / Wrong:

Inverted basket hitches are referred to as equalizing hitches because the sling is free to slip through the hook based upon the load weight distribution. Be sure to employ the “four ends down”, North to South, load engagement system.

Slings “skipping” through hardware components can become damaged. Balancing the load is critical and necessary to prevent sling damage and failure . Extra care should be taken when using slings in a basket hitch to balance the load to prevent slippage. As with the choker hitch, more than one sling may be necessary to control the load.

As with the choker hitch, more than one sling may be necessary to control the load.If practical, take a full wrap around the load to grip it firmly; be sure when using multiple slings that they do not cross over each other. Wrapping the load is a legitimate method of minimizing excessive sling length. Other methods, such as, twisting and knotting radically reduce sling Work Load Limits. When the load is “wrapped” the sling Work Load Limit is not increased, but load control is.

CHOKER HITCHES – Right / Wrong:

The choke hitch should always be pulled tight before the lift is made, not pulled down during the lift. A sling rigged in a choker hitch (not double wrapped) does not make full contact with the load. Use multiple slings to balance the load, and wrap the load to ensure full contact. Ensure multiple slings do not cross. Choke on opposite sides of the load, if this action will not damage the load and maintain load control.

Always use a choker hitch when turning a load. If the sling is not rigged properly, the turning action will loosen the hitch, resulting in load slippage. Place sling eyes on top of the load, pointing the opposite direction of the turn. The body is then passed under the load and through both eyes. Blocking should be used to protect the sling and facilitate removal. Basket hitches should not be used to turn a load. Always downgrade the choker Work Load Limit when the angle of choke is less than 120°.

For a tighter choke hitch, which provides full, 360° contact with the load, take a full wrap around the load before choking the sling. Ensure that multiple slings do not cross. When the load is “wrapped” the sling Work Load Limit does not increase, but load control does.

Double Choker Hitch:

The Double Choker Hitch if applied properly will facilitate equalization of the loading on the sling legs over the lifting hardware. If applied improperly, one of the legs will share a greater portion of the load and equalization will not occur. The Double Choker Hitch Work Load Limit is twice the regular Choker Hitch Work Load Limit.

Sling tension – Different horizontal planes :

Sling Tension – Leg Length/Headroom:

Calculating the tension imposed on slings or individual legs of a multi-part sling system will enable the sling user to select slings with adequate work Load Limits.

Use the following steps to calculate the tension imposed upon the individual sling legs, when you know the leg Length (L) and Headroom (H).

1)Determine the Load Factor (LAF):

Divide the leg length (L) by the headroom (H)

L ÷ H = LF
Example: 20 ÷ 15 = 1.33 Load Factor (LAF)

2)Determine the Share of the Load (SOL) for the individual sling legs:

Divide the load weight by the number of sling legs.

Load weight ÷ number of legs = Share of the Load (SOL)

Example: 12,000 lbs ÷ 3 legs = 4,000 lbs. (SOL)

3) Multiply Load Factor by the Share of the Load to determine Sling Tension

Load Factor x Share of the Load = Tension

LAF x SOL = Tension

Example: 1.33 x 4,000 = 5,320 lbs.

Please Note: Tension calculations are based upon:

1. Sling attachment points being equidistant from the center of gravity
2. Sling attachment points being equidistant to each other.
3. Sling attachment points being on the same horizontal plane
4. Equal sling leg lengths

Planning all Lifts:

Lifting operations must be planned to ensure that lifts are carried out safely and efficiently. The following points must always be considered:

• Where loads are to be picked up

• Where loads are to be placed

• What areas are to be passed over

• Proximity of the public

• Any obstructions in the way

• How the load is to be slung

• How slings are to be removed and access to them

• How the crane driver will be directed

• The weight of the load

• The radius of the lift

• Any loads from a crane or outriggers and the capacity of the ground or slab to support them

• Weather conditions and light.

The Project Health and Safety Plan will record the overall project specific arrangements for the control of lifting operations. The Project Lifting Plan will detail the specific arrangements for lifting.

The Schedule of Common Lifts will define and describe the ‘common lifts’ on the project. Depending on the nature and complexity of the lift these could be categorized as:

• Basic

• Standard

• Complex.

Basic lifts involve:

Loads of established weight where there are no hazards or obstructions within the area of operation. Typical examples are pallets of bricks or blocks, bundles of re bar, scaffold tubes.

Standard lifts involve:

The lifting of general, frequently handled items of established weight,with no special lifting accessories being required. This booklet describes the slinging of this type of load and the methods shown are to be used, unless stated otherwise by the appointed person.

Complex lifts may include:

Large pre-cast units, plant such as air handling units, generators etc.

Therefore, complex lift operations will require:

• Consultation with the manufacturer, supplier or designer regarding the correct way of slinging complex loads

• Careful planning

• The production of a specific method statement.

Do’s:

• Ensure that only authorized slingers / signalers attach or detach loads or signal the crane operator.

• Discuss operations with the crane operator.

• Ensure capacity of crane is sufficient to land load before lifting.

• Include the weight of the slings etc in the load on the lifting hook.

• Seek expert advice when using eyebolts, plate clamps, bull dog grips, chain blocks etc.

• Obtain confirmation that pre-fabricated rebar assemblies such as pad foundations and beams have been fabricated to allow safe lifting.

• Ensure that scaffold towers you are asked to move are designed to be lifted safely.

Don t’s:

• Wrap hand/tag lines around hand or body.

• Use tie wires or banding to lift loads.

• Leave a suspended load unattended.

• Pass loads over the public.

• Use lifting accessories for towing or pulling.

• Ride or climb on machines or suspended loads.

• Lift near power lines.

• Stand or walk beneath a load.

• Connect two or more independently slung loads at different levels on the same lift (sometimes known as chandelier lifts).

Click the below links to downloads rigging slings hitches documents

calculation-for-sling-loads

hand-signals

rigging-sling-hitches

Working Load Limit:

The maximum force that you should load a component is the working load limit (WLL). The WLL incorporates a safety factor (SF). The SF provides additional protection above the manufacturer’s design factor (DF). The design factor is the safety factor to which the manufacturer builds. The SF and DF do not provide added capacity. You must never exceed the WLL.

• Let’s calculate the WLL of a chain or gin wheel rated at 1000 pounds with a manufacturer’s DF of 3.

Note: Section 172 (1) (d) of the Construction Regulation requires a SF of 5.

This requirement is greater than our DF, so the capacity must be reduced accordingly.

WLL = 1000 pounds (rated capacity) x 3 (DF) / 5 (SF)

WLL = 600 pounds

In this example, the chain or gin wheel has a stamped capacity of 1000 pounds, but, in compliance with the Construction Regulation, it can safely lift a maximum capacity of 600 pounds.

Fiber Rope Selection:

Select the size and type of rope to use based on manufacturer’s information; conditions of use; and the degree of risk to life, limb, and property. The WLL of fiber rope is determined by multiplying the working load (WL) by the SF. The minimum breaking strength (MBS) is the force at which a new rope will break.

The manufacturer’s DF provides a layer of safety that has been determined by the manufacturer.
The SF, if greater than the DF, adds an additional layer of safety to meet the requirements of users and regulators. Together, these added layers of safety provide protection above the MBS to account for reduced capacity due to

• wear, broken fibers, broken yarns, age

• variations in construction size and quality

• shock loads

• minor inaccuracies in load weight calculations

• variances in strength caused by wetness, mildew, and degradation

• yarns weakened by ground-in or other abrasive contaminants.

If you notice rope that is defective or damaged, cut it up to prevent it from being used for hoisting.
Let’s calculate the WLL of a rope to lift a WL of 250 pounds.

Note: Section 172 (1) (d) of the Construction Regulation requires a minimum SF of 5.

For more critical lifts that could risk life, limb, or property, a SF of 10 to 15 may be necessary.

WLL = 250 pounds (WL) x 5 (SF)

WLL = 1,250 pounds

In this example, to meet the WLL you must use a rope with an MBS of 1,250 to hoist or lower a WL of 250 pounds. See manufacturers’ specifications to select the appropriate type of rope.

Care:

• To unwind a new coil of fiber rope, lay it flat with the inside end closest to the floor. Pull the inside end up through the coil and unwind counterclockwise.

• After use, recoil the rope clockwise. Keep looping the rope over your left arm until only about 15

feet remain. Start about a foot from the top of the coil and wrap the rope about six times around the loops. Then use your left hand to pull the bight back through the loops and tie with a couple of half hitches to keep the loops from uncoiling ( Figure 2.5).

( Figure 1.3)

• Remove kinks carefully. Never try to pull them straight. This will severely damage the rope andreduce its strength.

• When a fibre rope is cut, the ends must be bound or whipped to keep the strands from untwisting. Figure 2.4 shows the right way to do this.

Figure 1.4

Storage:

• Store fiber ropes in a dry cool room with good air circulation – temperature 10-21°C (50-70°F) humidity 40-60%.

• Hang fiber ropes in loose coils on large diameter wooden pegs well above the floor (Figure 2.5).

(Figure 1.5)

• Protect fiber ropes from weather, dampness, and sunlight. Keep them away from exhaust gases, chemical fumes, boilers, radiators, steam pipes, and other heat sources.

• Let fiber ropes dry before storing them. Moisture hastens rot and causes rope to kink easily. Let a frozen rope thaw completely before you handle it. Otherwise fibers can break. Let wet or frozen rope dry naturally.

• Wash dirty ropes in clean cool water and hang to dry.

Use:

• Never overload a rope. Apply the design factor of 5 (10 for ropes used to support or hoist personnel). Then make further allowances for the rope’s age and condition.

• Never drag a rope along the ground. Abrasive action will wear, cut, and fill the outside surfaces with grit.

• Never drag a rope over rough or sharp edges or across itself. Use softeners to protect rope at the sharp comers and edges of a load.

• Avoid all but straight line pulls with fiber rope. Bends interfere with stress distribution in fibers.

• Always use thimbles in rope eyes. Thimbles cut down on wear and stress.

• Keep sling angles at more than 45°. Lower angles can dramatically increase the load on each leg (Figure 1.6). The same is true with wire rope slings.

• Never use fiber rope near welding or flame cutting. Sparks and molten metal can cut through therope or set it on fire.

• Keep fiber rope away from high heat. Don’t leave it unnecessarily exposed to strong sunlight, which weakens and degrades the rope.

• Never couple left-lay rope to right-lay.

• When coupling wire and fiber ropes, always use metal thimbles in both eyes to keep the wire rope from cutting the fiber rope.

• Make sure that fiber rope used with tackle is the right size for the sheaves. Sheaves should have diameters at least six – preferably ten – times greater than the rope diameter.

(Figure 1.6)

Knots:

Wherever practical, avoid tying knots in rope. Knots, bends, and hitches reduce rope strength considerably. Just how much depends on the knot and how it is applied. Use a spliced end with a hook or other standard rigging hardware such as slings and shackles to attach ropes to loads.

In some cases, however, knots are more practical and efficient than other rigging methods, as for lifting and lowering tools or light material.

For knot tying, a rope is considered to have three parts (Figure 1.7).

(Figure 1.7)

The end is where you tie the knot. The standing part is inactive. The bight is in between.

Following the right sequence is essential in tying knots. Equally important is the direction the end is to take and whether it goes over, under, or around other parts of the rope.

There are overhand loops, underhand loops, and turns (Figure 1.8).

Overhand Loop             Underhand                        Loop Turn

WARNING – When tying knots, always follow the directions over and under precisely. If one part of the rope must go under another, do it that way. Otherwise an entirely different knot – or no knot at all – will result.

Once knots are tied, they should be drawn up slowly and carefully to make sure that sections tighten evenly and stay in proper position.

Bowline:

Never jams or slips when properly tied. A universal knot if properly tied and untied. Two interlocking bowlines can be used to join two ropes together. Single bowlines can be used for hoisting or hitching directly around a ring.

Bowline on the Bight

Used to tie a bowline in the middle of a line or to make a set of double-leg spreaders for lifting pipe.

Pipe Hitch:

Reef or Square Knot:

Can be used for tying two ropes of the same diameter together. It is unsuitable for wet or slippery ropes and should be used with caution since it unties easily when either free end is jerked. Both live and dead ends of the rope must come out of the loops at the same side.

Two Half Hitches:

Two half hitches, which can be quickly tied, are reliable and can be put to almost any general use.

Running Bowline:

The running bowline is mainly used for hanging objects with ropes of different diameters. The weight of the object determines the tension necessary for the knot to grip.

Make an overhand loop with the end of the rope held toward you

(1). Hold the loop with your thumb and fingers and bring the standing part of the rope back so that it lies behind the loop

(2). Take the end of the rope in behind the standing part, bring it up, and feed it through the loop

(3). Pass it behind the standing part at the top of the loop and bring it back down through the loop.

Figure-Eight Knot:

This knot is generally tied at the end of a rope to temporarily prevent the strands from unlaying.

The figure-eight knot can be tied simply and quickly and will not jam as easily as the overhand knot.
It is also larger, stronger, and does not injure the rope fibers. The figure-eight knot is useful in preventing the end of a rope from slipping through a block or an eye.

To tie the figure-eight knot, make an underhand loop

(1). Bring the end around and over the standing part

(2). Pass the end under and then through the loop

(3). Draw up tight.

Figure Eight Knot

Types of Eyebolts:

There are four specialized types of eyebolts.

• Forged eyebolts are forged instead of formed. These one-piece fasteners that offer higher load ratings.

• Screw eyes are screws with a head shaped into a loop or eye. They are often used in lifting and rigging applications, or to guide wire or cable.

• Shoulder eyebolts have a shoulder under the eye. Typically, the shoulder is installed flush with the mounting surface.

• Thimble eyebolts are designed with an opening that acts as a thimble for wire or rope to minimize wear.

• Pivoting eyebolts are designed to pivot 180°. The base of a swiveling eyebolt is designed to swivel 360°.

Shouldered:

Used for vertical and angular lifts; when used for angular lifts the Safe Working Load (SWL) is to be down rated . Angles less than 45 degrees are prohibited. Shoulder must be flush with the surface and screw.

Unshouldered – for vertical lies only, angular lifts will bend threaded shaft.

Shouldered eyebolts shall be used for all applications, except where it is not possible due to the configuration of the item. When unshouldered eyebolts are used, nuts, washers and drilled plates shall not be used to make shouldered eyebolts. Swivel eyebolts are also available in the tool crib.

Eyebolts shall have a minimum thread engagement between the eyebolt and its tapped hold of 1-1 /2 times the diameter of thread engagement. Nuts on through-eyebolts shall be self-locking types. The shoulders shall seat uniformly and snugly against the surface on which they bear.

Specifications:

Specifications for eyebolts include:

• Maximum load capacity – The maximum load which an eyebolt can handle.

• Shank length – For fully-threaded eyebolts, shank diameter equals the thread length.

• Threaded length

• Eye inside diameter (ID)

• Eye section diameter or eye thicknes

• Total weight

Material and Finish:

Eyebolts differ in terms of material and finish. Plastic eyebolts and rubber eyebolts may be suitable for some applications. Metallic eyebolts can be made of materials including:

• Aluminum

• Brass

• Bronze

• Steel

• Hardened steel

• Stainless steel

• Titanium

• Proprietary alloys

In terms of finish, eyebolts are often anodized, galvanized, or plated with gold, silver, tin, or zinc. Black oxide is an eyebolt coating that causes virtually no dimensional change. Phosphate coatings provide corrosion resistance and a better surface for the adhesion of primers and paints. Eye bolts with zinc chromate finishes are also available.

Operation Practices:

1) The size of the hole shall be checked for the proper size of eyebolt prior to installation. The condition of the threads in the hole shall be checked to ensure the eyebolt will secure, and the shoulder can be brought to a snug and uniformly engaged seat.

2) When installed, the shoulder of the eyebolt must be flush with the surface. When eyebolts cannot be properly seated and aligned with each other, properly sized washers or shims may be inserted under the shoulder to facilitate the eyebolts being tightened and aligned (firgure-1). However, minimum thread engagement must be maintained.

(firgure-1)

3) Angular loading of eyebolts should be avoided. Angular loading occurs in any lift in which the lifting force is applied at an angle to the centerline of the shank of the eyebolt. Angular loading of the eyebolt less than 45 degrees shall be prohibited. The eyebolt loading shall never exceed the values.

4) When more than one eyebolt is used in conjunction with multiple-leg rigging, it is recommended that spreader bars, lifting yokes, or lifting beams be utilized to eliminate angular loading. When these cannot be used, the values must not be exceeded.

5) To keep bending forces on the eyebolt to a minimum, the load shall always be applied in the plane of the eye, never in the other direction (figure-2).

(figure-2)

6) If the hook will not go completely into the eyebolt, a shackle will be used to avoid hoot tip loading.

7) Slings shall not be reeved through the eyebolt or reeved through a pair of eyebolts (firgure-3). Only one leg should be attached to each eyebolt. Reeving slings through eyebolts adds greater load tension in the eyebolt than normally calculated by using the sling angle.

(firgure-3)

INSPECTIONS:

a. Initial Inspection:

1. Prior to use, all new, altered, modified, or repaired eyebolts shall be inspected by a designated person to verify compliance with the applicable provisions of this chapter. Written records are not required.

b. Frequent Inspection:

1. A visual inspection shall be performed bythe user or other designated person each shift before the eyebolt is used. Semipermanent and inaccessible locations where frequent inspections are not feasible shall have periodic inspections performed.

2. Conditions such as those listed in section removal critieria  or any other condition that may result in a hazard shall cause the eyebolt to be removed from service. Eyebolts shall not be returned to service until approved by a qualified person.

3. Written records are not required.

c. Periodic Inspection:

1. A complete inspection of the eyebolt shall be performed by a designated person. The eyebolt shall be examined for conditions such as those listed in section removal critieria and a determination made as to whether they constitute a hazard.

2. Periodic inspection intervals shall not exceed one year. The frequency of periodic inspections should be based on:

Frequency of use.

• Severity of service conditions.
• Nature of lifts being made.
• Experience gained on the service life of eyebolts used in similar circumstances.

3. Guidelines for the time intervals are:

i. Normal service – yearly.
ii. Severe service – monthly to quarterly.
iii. Special service – as recommended by a qualified person.

4. Written records are not required.

REMOVAL CRITERIA:

Eyebolts shall be removed from service if damage such as the following is visible, and shall only be returned to service when approved by a qualified person:

a. Missing or illegible manufacturer’s name or trademark and/or rated load identification.

b. Indications of heat damage including welding spatter or arc strikes.

c. Excessive pitting or corrosion.

d. Bent, twisted, distorted, stretched, elongated, cracked, or broken load-bearing components.

e. Excessive nicks or gouges.

f. A 10% reduction of the original or catalog dimension at any point around the body or pin.

g. Excessive thread damage or wear.

h. Evidence of unauthorized welding or modification

i. Other conditions, including visible damage, that cause doubt as to continue use.

REPAIRS:

a. Repairs, alterations, or modifications shall be as specified by the eyebolt manufacturer or a qualified person.

b. Replacement parts shall meet or exceed the original equipment manufacturer’s specifications.

EFFECTS OF ENVIRONMENT

a. When alloy steel eyebolts are to be used at temperatures above 400°F (204°C) or below- 40°F (-40°C), the eyebolt manufacturer or a qualified person should be consulted.

b. Carbon steel eyebolts shall not be used at temperatures above 275°F (135°C) or below 30° F (-1°C) unless approved by manufacturer or a qualified person.

c. The strength of eyebolts can be affected by chemically active environments such as caustic or acid substances or fumes. The eyebolt manufacturer or a qualified person should be consulted before eyebolts are used in chemically active environments.

Eye bolt identification markings:

Shoulder Nut Eye Bolt – Installation for In-Line and Angular Loading:

A.The threaded shank must protrude through the load sufficiently to allow full engagement of the nut

B.If the eye bolt protrudes so far through the load that the nut cannot be tightened securely against the load, use properly sized washers to take up the excess space BETWEEN THE NUT AND THE LOAD

C.Place washers or spacers between nut and load so that when the nut is tightened securely, the shoulder is secured flush against the load surface

D.Thickness of spacers must exceed this distance between the bottom of the load and the last thread of the eye bolt

Regular Nut & Shoulder Nut Eye Bolt – Installation for In-line Loading with a tapped hole:

• More than one eye bolt diameter of threads, only (1) nut is required

• Tighten hex nut securely against load

• One eye bolt diameter of threads or less, use two (2) nuts

• Tighten hex nut securely against load

• Minimum engagement depth is 2 x Diameter

• One eye bolt diameter of threads or less is not allowed

Machinery eye bolts must be used with great care:

• Working load limits for eye bolts are based on a straight vertical pull “in a gradually increasing manner”

• Angular pulls will significantly lower working load limits (see Shoulder Pattern) and should be avoided whenever possible

• If an angular pull is required, a properly seated Shoulder Pattern eye bolt must be used

• Loads should always be applied to eye bolts in the plane of the eye, not at an angle to this plane

• Angular pulls must never be more than a 45° pull

Loads must always be applied to eye bolts in the plane of the eye:

• Side pull in the plane of the eye.

• Sling angle must not exceed 45 °.

• Side pull out of the plane of the eye. This configuration must not be used.

Do not reeve slings between attachment points:

• Reeving introduces side pull.

• Although the upper sling angle is 60°, the resultant sling angle is 30°.

• For 1 lbf at 60° there is also a 1 lbf lateral load. The resultant load on the eye bolt is 1.73 lbf at 30°.

How should you use eye bolts safely:

• Orient the eye bolt in line with the slings. If the load is applied sideways, the eye bolt may bend.

• Pack washers between the shoulder and the load surface to ensure that the eye bolt firmly contacts the surface. Ensure that the nut is properly torqued.

• Engage at least 90% of threads in a receiving hole when using shims or washers.

• Attach only one sling leg to each eye bolt.

• Inspect and clean the eye bolt threads and the hole.

• Screw the eye bolt on all the way down and properly seat.

• Ensure the tapped hole for a screw eye bolt (body bolts) has a minimum depth of one-and-a-half times the bolt diameter.

• Install the shoulder at right angles to the axis of the hole. The shoulder should be in full contact with the surface of the object being lifted.

• Use a spreader bar with regular (non-shoulder) eye bolts to keep the lift angle at 90° to the horizontal.
  • Use eye bolts at a horizontal angle greater than 45°. Sling strength at 45° is 71% of vertical sling capacity. Eye bolt strength at 45° horizontal angle drops down to 30% of vertical lifting capacity.
  • Use a swivel hoist ring for angled lifts. The swivel hoist ring will adjust to any sling angle by rotating around the bolt and the hoisting eye pivots 180°.

Dangerous alterations:

• In general, a lifting eye must never be altered by such means as grinding, machining, or cutting. Dangerous alterations of eyebolts that can contribute to catastrophic failures include:

• Machining an undercut in a shoulder lifting eye if a noncounterbore/countersunk hole is used.

• Cutting undersized threads on a blank lifting eye to make it fit.

• Welding another piece of metal to the eye or heating it in any way.

• Rapidly loading the lifting eye in shock, especially at ambient temperatures below 30 F.

• Grinding the eye to make it fit a tight space.

Machinery eye bolt Do’s:

• Visually inspect eyebolts for any damage or corrosion on threads and body

• Always be sure threads on the shank and receiving holes are clean

• Insure the eyebolt has proper identification markings

• Always countersink receiving hole or use washers to seat the shoulder properly

• Always screw the eye bolt down completely for proper seating

• Always tighten nuts securely against the load

• When using blind tapped holes, make sure thread engagement is more than 1.5 times the diameter of the thread in steel and 2.5 times in aluminum

Machinery eye bolt Don’ts:

• Do not use the eyebolt if it is bent, damaged, or has been modified.

• Do not use if the eyebolt if it does not have proper identification markings.

• Do not use shouldered eyebolts at angles between 45 and 90 degrees to bolt axis.

• Do not repair, replace, or modify an eyebolt.

• Do not use if a gap exists between the part and eyebolt.

• Do not use a hook larger than the diameter of the eyebolt opening.

• Do not use a plain pattern eye bolt for angular pulls

• Shock loading must be avoided.

• Never machine, grind, or cut an eye bolt.

• Never use eye bolt that shows signs of wear or damage.

• Never use eye bolt if eye or shank is bent or elongated.

• Never exceed the load rating.

Examples of non-load rated eyebolts that should never be used for rigging:

Click the below link to download for rigging hardware safety check sheet and pep talk

 rigging_hardware-check-sheet

 rigging-hardware-pep-talkpdf

Lifting Safety:

Lifting equipment is any work equipment for lifting and lowering loads, and includes any accessories used in doing so (such as attachments to support, fix or anchor the equipment).

There are three key terms used in reference to the Regulations: ‘lifting equipment’;’lifting operations’; and ‘the load’.

Examples of lifting equipment include:

• overhead cranes and their supporting runways
• patient hoists
• motor vehicle lifts
• vehicle tail lifts and cranes fitted to vehicles
• a building cleaning cradle and its suspension equipment
• goods and passenger lifts
• telehandlers and fork lifts
• lifting accessories

Lifting accessories are pieces of equipment that are used to attach the load to lifting equipment, providing a link between the two. Any lifting accessories used between lifting equipment and the load may need to be taken into account in determining the overall weight of the load.

Examples of lifting accessories include:

• fibre or rope slings
• chains (single or multiple leg)
• hooks
• eyebolts
• spreader beams

The load includes any material, people or animals (or any combination of these) that is lifted by the lifting equipment. Loads are often provided with permanent or semi-permanent fixed or attached points for lifting. In most cases, these are considered to be part of the load.

Examples of loads include:

• loose bulk materials
• sacks, bags, pallets and stillages
• discrete items (such as a large concrete block)
• machinery and any permanently attached lifting eyes
• a skip and the lugs fixed to its side

Different types of lifting equipments and its sub class :

1 ) Chain hoist.

• Liver hoists / Pull lift
• Hand chain hoise(Chain block /block and jackles)
• Electrical chain hoise
• Compressed air hoise , pneumatic chain hoist
• Hydralic chain hoist

2 ) Wire rope hoist

• Scaffold hoist
• Hand operated wire rope winches & hoist
• Electrical winches & hoist
• Over head wire rope crane hoist
• Hydralic wire rope winch/hoist
• vehicle mounted winches
• Cable pullers / Hoist
• Tractel wier rope

3 ) General Lifting equipment

• Synthetic sling
• Shackles
• Eye bolts & eye nuts
• Chain slings
• Wire rope slings
• Lifting chain
• Lifting & pulling clamps
• Runway beam mono , mono rail crane trolley
• Lifting magnet, permanant, battery electric and manual.
• Equipment identification tags

4 ) Rigging Equipment

• Cros by lifting & rigging
• Material rigging & load suspension eyes
• Lifting & rigging hooks
• Tumbuckles & rigging screws
• Wire rope accessories & fitting
• Snatch block, sheave block & crane pulley blocks.
• Load restraint equipment
• Lifting & rigging swivels.

5 ) Cranes & Ganty system

• Counter balance floor workshop cranes
• Portable garge
• Swing jib cranes
• Davit arm portable jib cranes
• Aluminium gantries
• Steel gantries
• Portable mobile swing jib cranes
• Over head cranes system

6 ) Material Handling & Jackey equipment

• Machinery, Load moving skates & material skates
• Lifting jacks
• Hydraulic Lifting Cylinders & Pumps
• Lifting beam & spreader beams
• Hand operate paller trucks
• Stacker trucks
• Genie industrials materials handling equipment
• Scrissor lift
• Gas cylinder handling equipment
• Drum Handling equipment
• Crane forks
• Platform trucks & trolley

7 ) Fork lift truck attachment

• Fork Mounted Man Riding Baskets
• Environment & Waste Handling Attachments
• Fork Lift Truck Mounted Drum Handling Attachments
• Fork Mounted Jib and Hook Attachments
• Fork Truck Scoop Attachments
• Snow Plough Fork Lift Truck Attachments

Chain Hoist :

There are three types of chain hoist. Differential, Lever Ratchet and Hand chain.

The most important thing to remember is that heavy items have mass and mass equals energy. It may not be obvious but you know if you drop something heavy on your foot it will hurt. But it may do more than hurt. An anvil, sewage block or milling vise dropped on one’s foot could break numerous bones, disable and cause considerable expense.

Differential Hoists

These use a continuous loop of chain and a double chain wheel at the top with different number of pockets on the two sides. The lower “hook” wheel has grooves to ride on the chain but no pockets. As the chain is pulled around the inner load loop gets smaller or larger by the difference in the number of pockets on the chain wheel (the differential). As the lifting loop gets shorter the hand loop gets longer and vise versa. This is a bit of an inconvenience but the mechanism is as simple as they get.

Lever Ratchet Hoists

These are small portable units with capacities up to 5 tons but the common ones are rated 1/2 or 1 ton. The ratchet handle operates simple gears that pull a short load chain. The load is supported by a disk type friction brake similar to an automotive clutch disk held by a paw and sprocket (ratchet). Lifting rotates the brake/clutch on the ratchet. Lowering releases the pressure on the brake via a multi-lead screw similar to a brake Bendix.

Hand Chain Hoists (standard chain hoists)

These operate like the ratchet hoists above except a chain wheel and loop of hand chain turns the gearing. A brake holds the load and a ratchet prevents the brake from rotating one direction. The chainwheel rides on a screw that loosens the brake when the chain is pulled in the lowering direction. Most have planetary gearing on the brake wheel. Chain hoists are made with straight pulls and compound pulls up to 10 tons or more. Chain hoist are made in steel, portable aluminium housings, spark proof materials and corrosion resistant materials.

Common Features and Problems

• High quality hoists have ball thrust bearings in the hook to allow rotating the load.
• Load hooks have openings parallel to the back. Properly rated load hooks that have been overloaded will spring open and not be parallel.
• The brakes in industrial duty hoists are large and sufficient to support the load. A two ton hoist has an 8″ to 10″ diameter brake. Small import 2 ton hoists have small 3 to 4 inch brakes that are patently dangerous. They will slip under partial load without operation then due to heat rapidly slip more. These are dangerous junk that have no place in a safe shop.

Hoist Maintenance and Inspection

Chain hoists are durable and long lasting. The only regular maintenance is inspection, cleaning and lubricating. Chains should be kept clean and rust free. There are only a few bearing points that require oiling but these often require dismantling the hoist. Depending the use this should be done once a year or two. Since these devices have gears it is important to keep them sand and grit free. To clean the gears requires dismantling. Afterwards they should be greased with a tacky high pressure lube like Never Seize or gear grease.

Hoists that slip should be tagged “out of order” and repaired if possible. If not they should be scrapped. Chains that are worn, kinked or stretched should be replaced. Load chains have gently curved sides that when overloaded become straight and sometimes stiff to flex. Stretched, straightened chains should be scraped and replaced. Load chains on hoists that have been stretched will not run smoothly on their blocks. Snapping or popping chains are an indication of overloaded chains.

Annual Inspection:

The Annual inspection may be performed with the hoist in its normal location and do not require the hoist to be dismantled. Covers and other items normally supplied to allow inspection of components should be opened or removed for these inspections.

Inspection Items

1.Operating mechanisms checked for maladjustment and listened to for unusual sounds that may indicate problems.

2.Tightness of bolts, nuts, and rivets.

3.Excessive wear, corrosion, cracks, or distorted parts in the following:

• load blocks
• suspension housings
• hand chain wheels
• chain attachments
• clevises
• yokes
• suspension bolts
• shafts
• gears
• bearings
• pins
• rollers
• locking and clamping devices

4. Damage or excessive wear on hook-retaining nuts or collars and pins and welds or rivets used to secure the retaining members.

5. Excessive wear or damage on load sprockets, idler sprockets, hand chain wheel, and drums or sheaves shall be checked for damage or excessive wear.

6. Hand chain-operated hoists checked for evidence of worn, glazed, or oil-contaminated friction disks; worn pawls, cams, or ratchets; and corroded, stretched, or broken pawl springs in braking mechanism.

7. Evidence of damage to supporting structure or trolley.

8. Presence of legible warning labels.

9. End connections load chains shall be checked for evidence of wear, corrosion, cracks, damage, or distortion.

10. Welded link hoist chain.

11. Hooks

Safety Factors and Testing

Traditional European and North American load lifting equipment has always had significant safety factors. Most steel crane and hoist parts are rated to be loaded to a maximum of 10,000 PSI at 1.5 to 2 times the rated load. This allows almost all parts to be safely made of mild steel. But then the parts are often made of steels that have five to ten times the strength of mild steel thus having huge safety factors. These 15 to 20 to one safety factors are what allows load lifting equipment to snag or catch a dropping load and safely absorb the inertia of such over loading.

These safety factors should never be assumed or taken advantage of. The basic 1.5 rating is the amount of test load that is periodically put on industrial cranes to test them. Private owners and small shops should also periodically inspect and test their equipment to full or 1.5x capacity and record the test.

On our large 10 Ton crane a 30,000 pound test load was not often available but occasionally we would have large assemblies that we normally did not lift. We would take advantage of these occasions and carefully lift them a few inches, have folks in the shop witness the lift then carefully put the load down. One thing we would have to be wary of was that at test load conditions the crane bridge would deflect more than that 1/4″ or less and the trolley would try to roll to the center of the beam.

The above applies to real honest industrial duty equipment. There is a LOT of imported junk on the market sold by the big discount tool houses. Many of these items have ZERO safety factor and are based on ultimate failure values rather than conservative engineering values. This means they break or fail without warning if overloaded. I’ve seen popular “2 ton” Taiwanese hoists that had chains 1/5th the size of American hoists with load brakes that could not support half the devices rated load. I’ve seen many hydraulic presses with frames advertising 30 TON capacity sporting 20 ton jacks that were clearly bent from overloading. I’ve also seen shop floor cranes with bent arms and faulty hydraulic cylinder valves that were difficult or nearly impossible to gently lower a load. None of these devices are built to conventional safety standards. They will not withstand common load tests and should be avoided at all costs.

Hanging Hoists

Hoists can be hung statically using a loop of chain or shackle. Movable hoists are hung on a trolley. In either case the support method should be rated for the capacity of the hoist.

Trolleys should be hung on an appropriate beam. Crane or hoist beams are rated by deflection. Deflection should be 1/4″ or less at the middle of the beam when fully loaded. This rule does two things. At 1/4″ deflection trolleys do not roll down hill. At 1/4″ deflection the strain on most beams is well within a safe range.

Calculating deflection can be daunting if you do not know how. You start with the beam specification (type, size, weight per unit length). Then look up the section modulas and plug it into the equations. Engineering handbooks have some of the data, the AISC Steel Construction manual has data on almost all beams as well as deflection formulas. Some engineering programs have the information as well.

One thing to remember about deflection is that it increases by the cube of the increase in length. So the span of the beam makes a huge difference.

Hanging hoists from wood is difficult to rate. Hanging hoists from roof trusses can be rated roughly by the roof rating but is NOT included in codes and this is NOT an engineering recommendation. Use at your own risk!

Low load utility building roofs are rated as low as 10 to 20 pounds per square foot. Standard structures are usually rated 30 to 40 pounds per square foot. Only in high snow load areas are roofs rated 50 to 50 pounds or more. If you take the area supported by a pair of trusses, say 20 by 4 feet, this is 80 square feet. Multiply by 20 and you have 1600 pounds. This is the total load those trusses may be expected to support including wind and snow. Add a third truss and you have 2400 pounds, a forth and its 3200 pounds. Your hoisting load should never be more than 50% of the rated load.

If you are hanging a shop monorail from wooden trusses the lower joist should be doubled up for at least 50% of the span or more. Gluing, nailing and bolting is recommended. A wooden beam in the trusses above the crane rail can help spread the load and add strength to the whole. If you are hanging a short steel beam a longer wood beam will help spread the load across more trusses. A bridge truss perpendicular to the roof trusses will increase the roof strength as well as spread the load.

The following are the different types of chain hoist

Ratchet lever hoists	Hand chain hoist	Electrical chain hoist	Compressed air hoist	Hydraulic chain hoist

Available wide choice of hoists which can either lift or pull a load by means of a wire rope. There are two main differences with wire rope devices, some are designed to lift and pull (hoists) and some are designed just to pull (winches). The main factor that decides if a wire rope machine can be used to lift, pull or both is the factor of safety that it required and the unit is built to; to lift a load there is a FOS (factor of safety) requirement of 5:1, whereas to pull a load the requirement on only 3:1 FOS. Options are available for manual, electric, pneumatic or hydraulic cable pulling and lifting devices. All of which have their own unique features and specifications which can make one more suitable than another.

Wire rope scaffold hoists:

Scaffolding wire rope hoists are simply wire rope hoists that are designed to be used on construction sites for lifting building materials tools and equipment from the ground level to the working area above. Lifting equipment like scaffold hoists are also referred to as builders hoists;they as basically a wire rope lifting hoist that are suitable for outdoor use and usually supplied with a bracket and claps for attachment to a scaffolding or to a scaffold tower; the bracket will cantilever out from the scaffolding on a pivot arm that rotates to allow the load once raised to swing above the working platform. There are many different brackets and fixing methods including a counterweight gantry system, this is totally free standing scaffold tower and requires no fixings or fasteners.The lifting capacity for scaffold hoists varies from 100 – 500kg.

Scaffold / builders hoists tend to be fast lifting speeds in the region of 18 metre per minute and long heights of lift up to 100 metre. When looking for a suitable scaffold hoist the key features are HOL height of lift as you need to be able to reach your working platform from the floor.

ALWAYS:

• Store and handle grip/pull machines correctly.
• Inspect the machine, rope and accessories before use and before placing into storage.
• Ensure mounting and suspension points are secure and suitable for the full loads that will be imposed.
• Ensure the machine is free to align correctly with the rope and the rope is free of any obstructions.
• Use only the correct rope supplied for the machine.

NEVER:

• Use kinked, damaged ropes or ropes with broken wires.
• Extend or force operating levers.
• Operate raising and lowering levers at the same time.
• Use grip/pull machines if the rope is twisted or trapped.
• Use grip/pull machines for man-riding applications unless they are specifically designed/adapted for that purpose.

Storing and Handling Grip/pull Machines

Never return damaged grip/pull machines, ropes etc to storage. They should be dry, clean and protected from corrosion. Rope should be carefully coiled onto a suitable drum or frame for storage, taking care to avoid any twists. Store machines and ropes on a suitable rack, not on the floor where they may be damaged.

Using Grip/pull Machines Safely

Do not use defective grip/pull machines, ropes, pulleys etc.
Check the rigging arrangement, that anchorage and suspension points are secure and adequate for the imposed loads. Ensure the correct rope is fitted and that it is not twisted or kinked. The machine must be free to align with the rope. For lifting operations do not exceed the marked SWL. The line pull must not exceed that stated for pulling applications. Only use the operating lever provided with the machine and do not extend this with tubes etc. Undue force will damage the machine or cause safety pins to shear. Do not attempt to operate the raising and lowering levers at the same time. For man-riding applications only use a machine which has been designed or specially adapted for that purpose, following the suppliers specific instructions. Additional safety equipment will be necessary.

Hand Operated Wire Rope Winches and Hoists:

How do you intend to mount the hand operated winch, floor mounted, wall mounted or as a portable wore rope hoist? When fitting, consider the handle position on the winch to ensure that it will be operable in the area to be installed and not interfere. What environment is it to be used in, do you need corrosion resistance or made from stainless steel.

A wire rope hand operated hoist is designed to primarily lift a load though it is also safe for a hoist to pull a load whereas a hand operated wire rope winch can only pull a load and never be used to lift a load. The main reason being that the factor of safety (FOS) for both types is different, for lifting the FOS is 5:1 whereas with pulling winches only 3:1 FOS is required.

Electric Winches and Hoists, AC (Mains Powered):

Motor – Typically the winch motor is powered by the vehicle’s battery. The motor provides power to the gear mechanism, which turns the winch drum and winds the wire rope.

• Winch Drum – The winch drum is the cylinder onto which the wire rope feeds. The drum is driven by the motor and drive train. Its direction can be changed using the remote control.
• Wire Rope – The wire rope’s diameter and length are determined by the winch’s load capacity and design. Wrapped around the winch drum and fed through the fair lead, the wire rope is looped at the end to accept the hook’s clevis pin.
• Fair lead- When using the winch at an angle, the fair lead (or wire lead) acts to guide the wire rope onto the spooling drum. It minimizes damage to the wire rope while it goes through the winch mount or bumper.
• Gear Train – The reduction gear converts the winch motor power into a large pulling force. The gear train design makes it possible for the winch to be lighter and more compact.
• Braking System – The brake is automatically applied to the winch drum when the winch motor is stopped and there is load on the wire rope. The brake prevents the winch from paying out line, which in turn holds the vehicle in place.
• Clutch – The clutch allows the operator to manually disengage the spooling drum from the gear train, enabling the drum to rotate freely (known as “free spooling”). Engaging the clutch “locks” the winch drum back onto the gear train.
• Control Box – Using electrical power from the vehicle’s battery, the control box solenoids switch power to the motor, enabling the operator to change the direction of the winch drum rotation.
• Remote Control – The remote control plugs into the winch control box, allowing the operator to control the winch direction, as well as stand well clear of the wire rope while operating the winch.

GENERAL WINCH MAINTENANCE:

Inspect the wire rope before and after each winching operation. If the wire rope has become kinked or frayed, the wire rope needs to be replaced. Be sure to also inspect the winch hook and hook pin for signs of wear or damage. Replace if necessary.

• Keep winch, wire rope, and switch control free from contaminants. Use a clean rag or towel to remove any dirt and debris. If necessary, unwind winch completely (leaving a minimum of 5 wraps on spooling drum), wipe clean, and rewind properly before storage. Using a light oil on the wire rope and winch hook can keep rust and corrosion from forming.
• Operating your winch for a long period of time places an extra burden on your vehicle’s battery. Be sure to check and maintain your battery and battery cables according to manufacturer guidelines. Also inspect switch control and all electrical connections to be certain they are clean and tight fitting.
• Inspect the remote control for damage, if so equipped. Be sure to cap the remote socket to prevent dirt and debris from entering the connections. Store remote control in a protected, clean, dry area.
• No lubrication is required for the life of the winch.

Overhead Wire Rope Crane Hoists:

Hoists can provide lifting and lowering motions in an overhead material handling system. When a hoist is mounted to a trolley on a fixed monorail, two directions of load motion are available: forward or reverse, up or down. When the hoist is mounted on a crane, three directions of load motion are available: right or left, forward or reverse, up or down. These systems can achieve straight-line moves, reduce material damage, reduce noise, minimize energy cost, reduce floor-based traffic, improve worker ergonomics, and accomplish other operational objectives.

In an overhead material handling system, hoists provide vertical movement of below-the-hook load supporting and positioning devices.

In any material handling system, the hoist is used to accurately position a load.

Types of Overhead Hoists:

• Mounting Type – There are eight suspension/mounting methods for overhead hoists: Hook Mounted, Clevis Mounted, Lug Mounted, Trolley Mounted, Deck Mounted, Base Mounted, Wall Mounted, and Ceiling Mounted.
• Lifting Medium – Four types of lifting medium for overhead hoists: Welded Link Chain, Roller Load Chain, and Wire Rope, synthetic web or rope material.
• Power Application – Three methods of applying power for overhead hoists: Manually by Hand Chain, Electric Power, and Air Power.

Hydraulic Wire Rope Winches / Hoists (Lifting and Pulling):

The Hydraulic Winch Machine has a hydraulic driving unit and is driven by a turbo charged diesel engine.The winch operates by deriving mechanical power from a turbo charged diesel engine and this power is fed to a hydraulic pump, which in turn feeds the pressurized hydraulic oil to a hydraulic motor and to the capstan unit via a planetary gear box, thereby offering a step less speed regulation. The wire rope on the drum is also laid evenly using a rope guide unit.

Application:

• Oil & Gas Industry
• Rigging & Recovery Process Industry
• Power Generation Plants
• Pipeline Fabrication Industry
• Construction Industry
• Heavy Manufacturing Industry
• Process & Pipeline Industry

Features:

• Easy maintenance owing to open type design facilitating case of maintenance.
• Step-less speed control.
• Powerful display that shows load, speed and pulling length.
• The machine featured auto cut off function when set to designated speed/load.
• Suitable for rough conditions owing to robust construction
• Loaded with mechanical anchors.
• The machine is operated on No other electrical power is required as the controls are operating on 12 Volts DC drawn from the batter.

Synthetic lifting slings:

Natural and synthetic fiber rope slings are used primarily for temporary work, such as construction and painting jobs, and in marine operations. Fiber rope slings are pliant, grip loads well, and do not mar the surface of the load.

The most common constructions for fiber rope slings are 3-strand laid, 8-strand plaited, and hollow braided nylon and polyester. Fiber rope slings have the following properties in common:

• Strength,
• Safety,
• Convenience,
• Load protection,
• Long life,
• Economy,
• Shock absorbency, and
• Temperature resistance.

Identification:

New slings are marked by the manufacture to show:

• The rated load for the types of hitches, and the angle upon which they are based,
• The name or trademark of the manufacturer,
• The manufacturer’s code or stock number, and
• The type of material and construction.

Inspections:

This qualified person also performs additional periodic inspections where service conditions warrant, as determined on the basis of:

• Frequency of sling use,
• Severity of service conditions,
• Nature of lifts being made, and
• Experience gained during the service life of slings used in similar circumstances.

Lifting shackles -D shackles and bow:

A shackle has two main paths, the body and the pin. The body can have the anchor shape (bow) or a chain shape (D type). Each body shape can be used, depending on the specific application, with a screw pin or bolt-type pin.

• When selecting the right shackle, refer to manufacturers’ tables for the safe working loads of the shackles. The rated capacity should be imprinted on the shackle and be visible.
• Shackles are sized according to the diameter of the bow section rather than the pin size. Never use a shackle if the distance between the eyes is greater than listed in the manufacturer’s tables.
• Consult with the manufacturer if using shackles in extreme conditions (e.g., temperature higher than 204°C or lower than -40°C, or exposure to corrosive fumes).

inspect shackles:

• Inspect shackles regularly.
• Inspect the shackle eye and pin holes for stretching (elongation) and wear. Elongation means the metal is being overloaded.
• Inspect the shackle body for bending. A bent shackle indicates excessive side-loading.
• Inspect all shackle pins for distortion, surface blemishes, wear and fractures.
• All pins must be straight and all screw pins must be completely seated.
• Replace shackles that are bent, show excessive wear by more than 10% of the original diameter, or have an elongated eye or shackle pin holes.

Lifting Eye bolts & Eye Nuts, Lifting and Lashing Points:

Eye bolts are marked with their thread size NOT with their rated capacities. Make sure you select the correct eye bolt based on its type and capacity for the lift you are conducting.

• Use plain or regular eye bolts (non-shoulder) or ring bolts for vertical loading only. Angle loading on non-shoulder bolts will bend or break them.
• Use shoulder eye bolts for vertical or angle loading. Be aware that lifting eye bolts at an angle reduces the safe load.
• Follow the manufacturer’s recommended method for angle loading.

Use eye bolts safely:

• Orient the eye bolt in line with the slings. If the load is applied sideways, the eye bolt may bend.
• Pack washers between the shoulder and the load surface to ensure that the eye bolt firmly contacts the surface. Ensure that the nut is properly torqued.
• Engage at least 90% of threads in a receiving hole when using shims or washers.
• Attach only one sling leg to each eye bolt.
• Inspect and clean the eye bolt threads and the hole.
• Screw the eye bolt on all the way down and properly seat.
• Ensure the tapped hole for a screw eye bolt (body bolts) has a minimum depth of one-and-a-half times the bolt diameter.
• Install the shoulder at right angles to the axis of the hole. The shoulder should be in full contact with the surface of the object being lifted.
• Use a spreader bar with regular (non-shoulder) eye bolts to keep the lift angle at 90° to the horizontal.
• Use eye bolts at a horizontal angle greater than 45°. Sling strength at 45° is 71% of vertical sling capacity. Eye bolt strength at 45° horizontal angle drops down to 30% of vertical lifting capacity.
• Use a swivel hoist ring for angled lifts. The swivel hoist ring will adjust to any sling angle by rotating around the bolt and the hoisting eye pivots 180°.

Chain Slings Assemblies & Components:

Alloy steel chains are often used because of their strength, durability, abrasion resistance and ability to conform to the shape of the loads on which they are used. In addition, these slings are able to lift hot materials.

Alloy steel chain slings are made from various grades of alloy, but the most common grades in use are grades 80 and 100.  These chains are manufactured and tested in accordance with ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) guidelines.  If other grades of chain are used, use them in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations and guidance.

Identification:

New slings are marked by the manufacture to show:

• Size,
• Grade,
• The rated load, and
• Length (reach).

In addition, slings may be marked to show:

• Number of legs,
• Individual sling identification (i.e., serial number), and
• The name or trademark of the manufacturer.

Make periodic inspections of alloy steel chains slings at intervals no greater than 12 months.  A good guide to follow includes:

• Yearly for normal service use,
• Monthly to quarterly for severe service use, and
• As recommended by a qualified person for special and infrequent service use.

Wire Rope Lifting Slings & Assemblies:

Wire rope is often used in slings because of its strength, durability, abrasion resistance and ability to conform to the shape of the loads on which it is used. In addition, wire rope slings are able to lift hot materials.

Wire rope used in slings can be made of ropes with either Independent Wire Rope Core (IWRC) or a fiber-core. It should be noted that a sling manufactured with a fiber-core is usually more flexible but is less resistant to environmental damage. Conversely, a core that is made of a wire rope strand tends to have greater strength and is more resistant to heat damage.

Wire rope may be manufactured using different rope lays. The lay of a wire rope describes the direction the wires and strands are twisted during the construction of the rope. Most wire rope is right lay, regular lay. This type of rope has the widest range of applications. Wire rope slings may be made of other wire rope lays at the recommendation of the sling manufacturer or a qualified person.

Wire rope slings are made from various grades of wire rope, but the most common grades in use are Extra Improved Plow Steel (EIPS) and Extra Extra Improved Plow Steel (EEIPS).  These wire ropes are manufactured and tested in accordance with ASTM guidelines.  If other grades of wire rope are used, use them in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations and guidance.

When selecting a wire rope sling to give the best service, consider four characteristics: strength, ability to bend without distortion, ability to withstand abrasive wear, and ability to withstand abuse.

Lifting Clamps (Lifting & Pulling Applications):

Clamps in this category are designed for lifting application, for pulling equipment, tensioning loads and for holding items in place. Basic design styles include cam locking, screw lock clamps, scissor action lifting and suspension clamps. The main application for clamps  is to handle steel plates and all types of steel profile and therefore he main lifting clamp categories include, vertical & horizontal plate clamps and beam clamps (lifting and suspension) though there are many other categories including offered in the online catalogue and these include: pulling clamps, non-marking clamps, drum handling clamps, groundworks/construction clamps, coil handling, rail and drop test clamps.

Runway Beam Monorail Crane Trolleys, Push, Geared & Electric:

With a monorail system, the hoist and trolley run on a single stationary beam. Because of their inherent speed and efficiency, monorail systems are an effective method of moving and positioning loads to specific locations. They are available in capacities up to 150 tons.

Monorails are often used for repetitive production jobs, such as paint booths and water treatment plants. Monorails are best used in applications where materials are to be transported from one fixed point to another fixed location, or through a process; e.g., painting, blasting, delivering hot metal from the furnace to a fixed pouring location. The monorail allows two axes of hook movement: up/down and forward/back along the monorail beam. There is no lateral motion under the monorail beam.

Click the below link to know download lift equipment safety check sheet & guidelines

HMI_HOISTBASICS_AND_STANDARDS

WARN_Guide_to_Safe_Winching

hoistingChecklistHandOperated

synthetic sling

electric-chain-hoist