Tips for developing a safety programme:
1 Safety programmes need to be tailored to the type of hoists being used and their unique applications. Hoists are generally offered with either chain or wire rope as the lifting median. Types of hoists include:
– Manual hand chain and ratchet lever hoist
– Powered hoist
– Air/pneumatic
– Electric
– Hydraulic
Consult with a qualified supplier for the proper ANSI and OSHA standards that apply to your specific product and application.
2 One size or programme does not fit all applications.
– Reference the MHIA and the HMI website for a list of do’s and don’ts for each type of product and application resource information.
3 Proper programmes are not a burden or costly to execute.
– Additional information is available from your full line supplier of quality material handling equipment.
The number one item to any good safety programme is the proper selection of the material handling equipment.
Selecting a hoist
Safe practices begin with selecting the proper hoist. When selecting a hoist for a particular application, ask yourself the following questions:
How much will the load weigh?
The largest load the hoist will handle, as well as the weight of any attachments that facilitate the handling of loads – things like slings, grabs, spreader beams, vacuum lifts and manipulators – need to be carefully considered as you define the hoist’s capacity.
Carefully match these loads to the tonnage capacities of the hoists you are considering. A hoist that is under or over-rated in terms of capacity required introduces inefficiencies as well as safety issues into the material handling system.
How frequently will the hoist be used?
If a hoist will lift and move loads frequently, an electric or pneumatic hoist is probably the best choice. On the other hand, if the hoist will only be used occasionally, a hand chain or lever hoist should suffice. Many manufacturers offer a wide variety of options including pneumatic chain hoists, electric chain hoists and manual hand chain and lever chain hoists.
Will the hoist be used solely to lift materials and equipment?
If so, a hoist alone will perform the task at hand. If, on the other hand, the hoist will be used to lift and move items horizontally, you need to suggest one of two hoist combinations: a hoist/trolley system that will lift and move a load in one direction or axis, or a hoist/crane system that will lift and provide movement in two horizontal directions.
Both of these systems increase the versatility of the hoist. When a trolley is required, select one that correlates with the frequency of use. A plain or geared trolley requires the operator to start and stop the movement by hand and is usually satisfactory for occasional lifts and intermediate loads. Motorized trolleys are the appropriate choice for more frequent, heavy loads.
What is the required lift speed?
Lift speed and positioning capabilities also dictate the type of hoist for an application. Traditionally, manual hoists have offered more precise positioning load capabilities because they operate at slower speeds. However, today’s advanced controls have enhanced precision, enabling faster electric and air-powered hoists to meet exact positioning requirements.
The proper hoist and safety programmes go hand in hand. To achieve the most from your system choose a quality manufacturer and distributor that can support you in the proper selection and implementation for your facility.
