Dianne Pajo
When you and your workers transport heavy loads on your jobsite, you should do it while closely monitoring safety. Otherwise, your actions may result in detrimental or even fatal accidents. Review these five tips for staying safe when using lifting equipment so that you and your staff can avoid future incidents.
Examine Your Equipment Ahead of Time
It’s a good idea to have your employees examine your lifting equipment before they use it. They may discover damage or wear from the last use that makes it unsuitable for lifting. You will be glad that they spotted it ahead of time and prevented a possible accident from occurring.
Check the Safety Factor on Lifting Chains
Make sure to learn the safety factor of your lifting chains before you use them. This critical information can prevent you from overloading your load and causing the chains to snap. You will have to go through multiple steps to learn the safety factor, but protecting your employees will be worth it.
Create a Plan for the Lifting Process
Take the time to discuss the lifting process with your employees ahead of time and create a plan. Together, you can discuss every worker’s role in the process and anticipate any challenges you may encounter. It will make the move go more smoothly.
Don’t Let Anyone Stand Beneath the Load
You may think that it’s safe to have a worker stand beneath the load so that they can adjust it. But that is an incorrect and even dangerous assumption. No one should ever be underneath the load at any time since you never know when the load may break.
Keep Your Workers Trained
Ensuring your employees have the most up-to-date training is another good tip for staying safe when using lifting equipment. Companies regularly add innovations to their jobsites, so keeping your workers safe when using them is essential.
Otherwise, they may fall prey to dangers that they did not know about. You’ll be doing them a favor by keeping them aware.
These tips can ensure that your workers move loads more safely on your jobsite. You will be able to get work done with fewer incidents and take comfort in knowing that your employees are keeping themselves out of harm’s way.
