Whether you work in construction, shipbuilding, automotive, loading, or any other industrial venture that requires lifting heavy materials, you’re likely familiar with rigging and hoisting. For those who are unaware, rigging is the hardware that goes into hoisting (or lifting) an object. While hoisting is an efficient and useful method for lifting heavy materials, it can also be very dangerous. No one wants a shipping crate falling from the sky, and if you’re not using the correct rigging hardware, that could very well happen. To help your business rig and hoist materials safely, we put together a guide with some safety tips for industrial rigging. Read on to learn more.
Plan accordingly and know what you’re lifting
Successful planning leads to successful rigging and hoisting, but you can’t plan appropriately until you identify what you’re lifting. There are two factors to consider before you can accomplish a hoist: you have to know the item’s texture and how much it weighs. Both the texture and weight determine the hardware you’re going to use. For instance, some items will require a general nylon strap, but if the item you’re lifting has a rigid texture, the nylon could tear. A better option would be a chain or wire rope strap.
Inspect your hardware and environment before every lift
Once you know exactly what you’re lifting and how much it weighs, you should double- and triple-check all your hardware. Make sure the hardware you’re using is high quality and in good shape. There are several different types of rigging hardware that you’ll need to inspect or replace. While you’re inspecting the wire rope, slings, and hooks, don’t forget to consider the environment—both surrounding objects and the weather. You should never attempt to hoist an object in windy conditions or inclement weather. Finally, be sure you’re aware of any surrounding objects like power lines, lights, or buildings.
Always have at least one spotter
How do you help your buddy at the gym when he’s trying to bench more weight than he can handle on the barbell? You spot him, right? A spotter helps the person lifting maintain a consistent motion, guides them, and helps them if they need a hand. The same goes for rigging and hoisting objects. There should never be a circumstance where someone has to rig or hoist an object on their own. You always need at least one spotter.
As the business owner or manager, you’re responsible for your crew’s safety, so you must take the time to implement safety measures. With our safety tips for industrial rigging, your company will have less downtime from injuries, safer employees, and ultimately more revenue.
