Factors That Affect Rigging and Hoisting Safety

Rigging and hoisting operations are a crucial part of any industry. Examples include the construction and shipping industry where hoisting structures and heavy cranes enable workers to move around heavy loads. However, many workplaces tend to ignore rules and regulations when it comes to rigging safety which usually results in burns, cuts, serious injuries, physical impairments, and even deaths.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, around 220 workers were killed in crane-related operations from 2011 to 2015, and all of them involved a failure to abide by safety protocols.

In this article, we share a few factors that affect rigging and hoisting safety.

The Weather Conditions

Before we even talk about proper rigging methods, it’s necessary to consider external factors such as weather conditions that affect rigging safety.

Poor visibility, dust, darkness, high winds, and rain should all be taken into account when executing and planning, lifting operations.

Rigging equipment can become brittle during extremely cold temperatures and applying a sudden force can cause it to break. Also, heavy loads can be frozen to the ground they are resting on due to the extreme cold.

During windy conditions, crane operators need to exercise a good deal of judgment when moving heavy loads. Cranes can tolerate up to a certain amount of wind speed but anything beyond that is risky business.

It’s good practice to consult the crane manufacturer to determine the maximum speed limit within which the machine can be safely operated.

Proper Rigging Equipment

Selecting the right equipment is the first and most crucial step to ensuring worker safety. Only a knowledgeable and competent person should be consulted when choosing which rigging and hoisting equipment to work with. Doing so is necessary because different rigging equipment is used for different loads and purposes.

Other factors that go into selecting the proper rigging equipment include knowing relevant storage techniques. Also, an experienced rigger has the knowledge to consider important factors such as grade, diameter, and strength when deciding which equipment to use for the rigging job.

Proper Work Procedures

Sticking to the standard way of performing rigging and hoisting tasks not only ensures workers’ safety but also maximizes work efficiency. Using improper methods to perform work procedures increases the probability of making mistakes that eventually lead to serious injuries.

It’s also important to not drag slings from under the load and ensure that all sling angles are maintained to prevent a load imbalance. Avoid sudden swinging, stopping, and snatching of suspended weights that may lead to load failure.

Making mistakes is an inevitable part of moving heavy loads but with the right safety procedures, you greatly reduce the risk of severe injury and death.

Hovair produces air-powered machine rigging equipment that is safe to use and powerful in its application. Contact them today for more information.