Some key safety tips while using any hoists:
Do not exceed the safe working load of the hoists
Keep wire ropes / chains lubricated
Hoist from directly over the load. If not centered, the load may swing when lifted
A straight-line pull / lift must always be maintained. Side pulling or lifting increases wear and sets up dangerous stress levels on hoist parts and result in damage and possibly accidents
Make sure everyone is away from the load before starting to hoist
Do not use hoisting equipment for lifting people and pass the load over workers
Hang hoists solidly in the highest part of the hook area
Only one person should pull on hand, chain and lever hoists – should not be used for tandem lifting
When loading the lower hook, place the load directly in line with the hook shank and seat the load properly in the hook. Loaded this way, the load chain makes a straight line from hook shank to hook shank
Stand completely clear of the load.
Move hoist controls smoothly. Avoid incessant inching, abrupt, jerky movements of the load. Remove slack from the sling and hoisting ropes before lifting the load.
Remove all loose materials, parts, blocking and packing from the load before starting the lift.
Do not tip a load. The load is unstable and harms the hook and hoist.
Do not insert the point of the hook in a link of the chain.
Do not hammer a sling into place.
Do not leave slings dangling from the load hook. Place sling hooks on the sling ring when carrying slings to the load.
Do not raise loads higher than necessary to clear objects.
Do not leave suspended loads unattended.
