The Safe Use of Lifting Points and Lifting Eyes

The safe use of lifting points and lifting eyes in industry is essential to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of personnel and equipment while improving productivity in the workplace.

FAD Equipment Store provide a number of Kito Crosby and RUD lifting products so to help the users of these products here are some guidelines for safely using lifting points and lifting eyes.

Inspection and Maintenance:

• Regularly inspect lifting points and lifting eyes for wear, damage, or deformation. This should be done before each use.
• Ensure that the lifting equipment is in good condition and properly maintained.

Load Rating:

• Determine the safe working load (SWL) or rated capacity of the lifting point or lifting eye. This information should be clearly marked on the device.
• Never exceed the SWL of the lifting point or lifting eye. Overloading can lead to failure and accidents. Consider using a dynamometer or loadshackle to monitor loads.

Proper Installation:

• Ensure that the lifting point or lifting eye is securely attached to the load and that the load is properly balanced.
• Use the appropriate hardware, such as shackles or hooks, to connect the lifting point or lifting eye to the lifting equipment.

Angle of Use:

• Be aware of the angle at which the lifting point or lifting eye will be subjected to the load. As the angle increases, it can reduce the effective SWL.
• Use a suitable angle factor chart or calculation to determine the reduced SWL when lifting at an angle.

Avoid Shock Loads:

Avoid sudden jerks or shock loads when lifting. These can cause stress on the lifting point or lifting eye and lead to failure.

Positioning: 

• Ensure that the lifting point or lifting eye is positioned directly above the center of gravity of the load.
• Make sure the load is stable and will not shift during lifting.

Use Appropriate Hardware:

Select the appropriate lifting hardware, such as slings, chains, or cables, based on the characteristics of the load and the lifting point or lifting eye.

Operator Training:

• Ensure that operators are trained and competent in the safe use of lifting points and lifting eyes.
• Provide training on load handling techniques, proper rigging, and safe lifting practices.

Communication:

• Establish clear communication between the operator and any personnel involved in the lifting operation.
• Use hand signals a crane camera system or two-way radios to coordinate movements and ensure everyone's safety.

Environmental Factors:

• Consider environmental factors, such as temperature, wind, weather, and visibility, when planning lifting operations.
• Postpone lifting operations in adverse conditions that may compromise safety.

Documentation:

Maintain records of inspections, maintenance, and load calculations for lifting points and lifting eyes.

Regulatory Compliance:

Ensure compliance with relevant industry standards, such as OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), LEEA (Lifting Engineers Association) or other local safety regulations.

Emergency Procedures:

Always have emergency procedures in place in case of equipment failure or accidents during lifting operations.

Always prioritize safety when using lifting points and lifting eyes in industrial settings. Regular inspection, proper equipment selection, and operator training are key components of a safe lifting operation. When in doubt, consult with a qualified engineer or safety expert for guidance on specific lifting scenarios.