This GBCA Safety Toolbox Talk discusses safety issues when lifting and moving suspended loads. Click below to download the Toolbox Talk as a handout (includes Sign-In Sheet).

Lifting and Moving Suspended Loads

Lifting, suspending, and moving loads are common construction activities that can lead to struck-by incidents. Suspended loads often move over large areas and can be dropped onto workers or shift and fall.

SECURE ALL LOADS

  • Check that the load rating for rigging (slings, chains or straps) is adequate for the lift. All rigging MUST have a tag identifying its safe working load.
  • Inspect all rigging. Remove rigging that is worn or past its date of effectiveness.
  • Rig and secure materials so that the load is balanced and cannot shift during lift.
  • You may have to band, stack, and secure materials to a pallet, or put materials in a container before making the lift.

BEFORE LIFTING & MOVING A SUSPENDED LOAD

  • Always check first for overhead power lines and other obstructions.
  • Make sure all cranes or hoists making the lifts are rated for the loads they are lifting.
  • Walk the route before lifting the load. Mark all possible pinching and crushing hazards around the machine and the load landing area.
  • Clear the area below the lift by either using barricades or a ground person.
  • Put barricades around the swing radius of the crane so no one can get hit or park a vehicle within this area.
  • Follow a written engineered lift plan for all critical lifts. Deviations on critical lifts require new plans.

WHEN LIFTING & MOVING A SUSPENDED LOAD

  • Never work, or allow anyone to work, under a suspended load. Crane or hoist operators must always watch a load when it is in motion.
  • Notify all employees that a lift is going on. Use a horn or ground person to do this.
  • A trained signalman is required and must use the standardized hand signals. The equipment operator and signal man must have clear, unobstructed views of each other.
  • Only one person should control a lift or give signals to the equipment operator, except to warn of a hazardous situation.
  • Always capture the center of the load so it is level when lifting.
  • Use tag lines to control the load during the lift, and make sure the employee using the lines stays out from under the load as well.
  • When using a tag line never wrap the line around your hand. Be aware as to not let the line wrap around your feet.
  • When receiving the load, never remove straps or bands until the material is completely and safely set down.
  • If receiving the lift at a height, make sure fall protection is used.
  • Never raise a load higher than necessary, or leave a load suspended in the air.

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