Construction hoists are essential equipment used to transport personnel and materials vertically in construction sites. They are designed to move heavy loads to different floors of a building with ease. However, their use comes with some risks, and accidents can happen if safety measures are not followed. In this article, we will discuss safety operating procedures for construction hoists and analyze some accident cases that have occurred in the past.
Safety Operating Procedures for Construction Hoists
- Proper Equipment Selection Before selecting a construction hoist, it is essential to ensure that it is suitable for the intended purpose. The hoist should be selected based on the weight and size of the materials and personnel to be transported. The equipment should also be regularly inspected and maintained to ensure that it is in good condition.
- Proper Installation and Use The construction hoist should be installed and used in strict adherence to the manufacturer’s instructions. This includes ensuring that the hoist is set up on a stable surface, that it is properly secured, and that the load capacity is not exceeded. Only trained and authorized personnel should operate the hoist.
- Load Safety It is crucial to ensure that the load being transported is secure and stable. construction hoist lift.The load should be evenly distributed to prevent the hoist from tipping over. The load should also be secured to prevent it from slipping or falling during transportation.
- Pre-Use Inspections Before operating the construction hoist, a pre-use inspection should be conducted to ensure that all components are in good condition. This includes checking the brakes, cables, ropes, and safety devices.
- Regular Maintenance Regular maintenance is essential to ensure that the hoist remains in good condition. The hoist should be inspected and maintained according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This includes regular checks for wear and tear, lubrication of moving parts, and replacement of worn out or damaged components.
Accident Case Analysis
- Hoist Operator Crushed to Death In 2018, a construction hoist operator was crushed to death after the hoist he was operating fell from the fifth floor of a building. Investigations revealed that the hoist had not been properly secured, and the load being transported exceeded the hoist’s capacity. The accident could have been avoided if the safety operating procedures had been followed.
- Hoist Malfunction In 2016, a construction worker was injured when a construction hoist malfunctioned, causing him to fall from the hoist. Investigations revealed that the hoist’s safety devices had not been properly maintained, and the hoist had not been inspected before use. The accident could have been avoided if the safety operating procedures had been followed.
Conclusion Construction hoists are essential equipment used in construction sites. However, their use comes with some risks, and accidents can happen if safety measures are not followed. It is essential to follow safety operating procedures when using a construction hoist, including proper equipment selection, installation, load safety, pre-use inspections, and regular maintenance. Failure to follow these procedures can result in accidents that can cause injuries or even fatalities.
