T0012 Signallers & Slingers

Overview This talk will cover: lifting gear, before lifting, during lifting and potential hazards

Lifting Gear

1 Check the lifting gear for kinks and frays each day.
2 Chains must not be joined by means of bolts or wire.
3 No lifting gear must be used unless its SWL is marked.
4 Don’t use improvised slings or single leg of a multiple sling.
5 Store chains, ropes, strops and slings in dry conditions.

Before lifting

1 Wear a safety helmet and high – visibility clothing.
2 Make sure you know the weight of the load to be lifted.
3 Ensure hooks are ‘C’ type or fitted with a safety catch.
4 Ensure you can see the crane driver – if you cant, use radios.
5 Ensure radios are fully charged at the start of the shift.

During lifting operations

1 Use approved hand signals clearly and distinctly.
2 Protect wire ropes and slings from sharp edges of the load with softwood or other suitable packing.
3 Ensure the correct pin in the shackle is used and screwed home.
4 Ensure the hook is central to stop the load swing when raised.
5 Ensure the load is lifted off the ground and is free and correctly slung before hoisting.
5: How do you protect lifting gear from sharp edges?
6 Always use a guide rope to steady the load.
7 Stand well clear of the load being lifted.
8 When the crane is in operation, don’t leave the area unless you are relieved by another signaller.
9 Warn the crane operator of any obstructions to the load.
10 To avoid damage to the lifting gear, loads should be landed on to timber or another suitable bearer.

Hazards

1 Never tie knots in chains to shorten them/
2 Riding on loads is strictly prohibited.
3 Don’t use lifting gear for other purposes, e.g. towing.
4 Keep all those not involved in lifting operations away from the vicinity, especially children and the general public.

Do you have any questions for me?
REMEMBER YOU ARE THE EYES OF THE CRANE DRIVER