Rigging devices should not be used without a proper and well thought out plan of action. The time required to create this plan will allow for successful lifting. It may seem unnecessary to create a plan for inconsequential and small loads, but you should never underestimate the importance of being smart about rigging supplies and devices. The damage that can be caused by an insignificant load can outweigh the time saved by not creating and strictly following a lifting plan.
Creating a detailed plan takes time because you must consider
- Training employees
- Engineering services
- Equipment and lift capacity
- Rigging considerations
- Environmental factors
The moist important aspect of creating a plan is understanding rigging factors. You must know:
- The approximate load weight. Will your rigging hardware be able to lift the loads adequately?
- The distribution of that weight. If a load is uneven, it will put excessive weight on a single sling leg.
- Sling length. Proper length will ensure proper lifting without injury or damage.
- Load control. Slings must be rigged in a way to give the sling user full control of a balanced load.
- Center of gravity. Is your lifting mechanism positioned directly over the center of gravity?
Creating a detailed plan for lifting is the only way to ensure you purchase the proper rigging hardware. It will also allow your machines to last for extended periods of time while having no damage to property or injury to employees.
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