Support
Continued from page 41 • Not operate a chain block that is tagged out of service or
certain hazards that cannot be met by mechanical means , but only by the exercise of intelligence , care , common sense , and experience in anticipating the motion that will occur as a result of operating the chain block .
PRE-USE INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS Pre-use inspections are to be conducted on the equipment and site by a designated person who shall determine whether conditions found constitute a hazard and that the equipment is suitable for use .
IDENTIFICATION OF CHAIN BLOCKS The chain block shall be marked with the manufacturer ’ s name , model , serial number , and rated load capacity attached on a plate or label , or cast , forged , or stamped on the load block .
WARNINGS AND LABELS Warnings shall be affixed to the hoist or block with labels displaying information concerning operating procedures .
Labels shall be in compliance with SANS codes of practice .
PRE-USE INSPECTION CHECKLIST The following items shall be inspected :
• Operating mechanism for proper operation , proper adjustment , and unusual sounds .
• The chain block ’ s , braking system for proper operation .
• Hooks and latches , if used .
• The chain block ’ s , load chain , for compliance with manufacturer recommendations .
• The load rating of the chain block is verified as sufficient for the load to be lifted . has not been inspected .
• Not use the chain or rope as a welding ground .
• Not allow welding electrodes to contact the chain block .
• Operate only manually ( hand powered ) by one operator .
LIFTING OPERATIONS
• The chain block chain must not be wrapped around a load .
• Before load movement , the operator shall be sure chains and slings are not kinked or twisted around each other .
• The chain block shall not be operated unless chain is seated properly on the drum , sheaves , or sprockets .
• The chain block shall not be operated unless centred over the load .
• The load should not be lifted higher than necessary .
• The operator shall not pick up a load in excess of the rated load bearing capacity , load block or the gantry if used .
• Each time a load approaching load capacity is handled , the operator shall check the chain block ’ s , brake action by lifting the load just clear of supports and continuing only after verifying the brake system is operating properly .
• No person may stand under the load .
And finally , good housekeeping practice should be followed once the lift has been completed and the equipment should be securely stored in a clean , dry environment .
Mpho , I hope that this answers your question with regards to the basic use of chain blocks .
REFERENCES : 1 . ACRA
PRE-LIFT CHECKS The operator must :
• Be trained .
• Not make adjustments or repairs unless qualified .
• Report substandard conditions .
Thank you for all your questions . Send your problems ( and sometimes your creative solutions ) to acra @ netactive . co . za with ‘ Solutions Page ’ in the subject line . You may include pictures . RACA
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