Electric Chain Hoists are essential material-handling equipment that is widely used lift heavy objects easily and quickly. However, improper use of electric chain hoists can lead to damage and even death. This article tries to outline some of the safety issues concerning electric chain hoists. At the outset, these hoists should always be used in accordance with the applicable safety regulations. Under no circumstances should anyone try to hoist loads over or near people. Therefore, the operational area should be kept clear of people to avoid any untoward mishaps. At the same time, care should be taken that no one should be allowed to work under or near hoisted loads.
The manufacturer will always provide a safety and usage manual for the electric chain hoist. Organize a training session for the proper handling of the hoist. Also, ensure that the individual in charge of operating the hoist has understood and has demonstrated the capacity to operate this device safely and competently.
Care also should be taken to ensure that the operator is physically fit. Always ensure that the hoist is fitted with a torque-limiting device for hoist overload protection. It is essential that hoists be tested for overloading prior to shipping. Any good manufacturer will include built in safety features such as upper and lower limit switches and low voltage controls. There should be an emergency stop button in case of an undesirable situation.
Also, allow the hoist to be inspected periodically by authorized personnel. The hoist should be run through the daily mandatory checks before it is handed over for operation. Regarding operational concerns, the operator should also follow some basic steps to ensure proper functioning of the electric chain hoist. He or she should always check that the brake is functional prior to operating the hoist. Also, ensure that the gears are properly lubricated with the right type of oil. Moreover, the hoist should normally not be used in a moist or saline environment. If there is no alternative, then it is a good idea to inform the manufacturer and obtain proper guidelines for the operation of the same.
While using an electric chain hoists, never operate beyond the rated capacities. Typical lifting capacities of these hoists are from around 0.5 tons to 5 tons. They are also available in different speed capacities. This is because chain hoists have to endure a variety of handling procedures. Care should be taken that you do not end up buying hoist that does not meet your desired specifications. The thumb rule is that never violate the safety norms, otherwise you could be held liable for death or damage to your staff or property. Therefore, the key to safe operation is adherence to all the safety parameters along with proper training and guidance of your staff and operational personnel.
The manufacturer will always provide a safety and usage manual for the electric chain hoist. Organize a training session for the proper handling of the hoist. Also, ensure that the individual in charge of operating the hoist has understood and has demonstrated the capacity to operate this device safely and competently.
Care also should be taken to ensure that the operator is physically fit. Always ensure that the hoist is fitted with a torque-limiting device for hoist overload protection. It is essential that hoists be tested for overloading prior to shipping. Any good manufacturer will include built in safety features such as upper and lower limit switches and low voltage controls. There should be an emergency stop button in case of an undesirable situation.
Also, allow the hoist to be inspected periodically by authorized personnel. The hoist should be run through the daily mandatory checks before it is handed over for operation. Regarding operational concerns, the operator should also follow some basic steps to ensure proper functioning of the electric chain hoist. He or she should always check that the brake is functional prior to operating the hoist. Also, ensure that the gears are properly lubricated with the right type of oil. Moreover, the hoist should normally not be used in a moist or saline environment. If there is no alternative, then it is a good idea to inform the manufacturer and obtain proper guidelines for the operation of the same.
While using an electric chain hoists, never operate beyond the rated capacities. Typical lifting capacities of these hoists are from around 0.5 tons to 5 tons. They are also available in different speed capacities. This is because chain hoists have to endure a variety of handling procedures. Care should be taken that you do not end up buying hoist that does not meet your desired specifications. The thumb rule is that never violate the safety norms, otherwise you could be held liable for death or damage to your staff or property. Therefore, the key to safe operation is adherence to all the safety parameters along with proper training and guidance of your staff and operational personnel.