Guidelines for Hoist Using on Construction Site

Only authorized employees may use hoists to move heavy objects and equipment. When using construction hoists, remember to follow the five safety guidelines for working with heavy equipment. In addition, follow the guidelines below:

General Hoisting Guidelines For Working With Hoist

•  Never walk, stand, or work beneath a hoist.
• Isolate hoisting area with barriers, guards, and signs, as appropriate.
• Never exceed the capacity limits of your hoist.
• Wear gloves and other personal protective equipment, as appropriate, when working with hoists and cables.
• Ensure that hoists are inspected regularly before each use.
• Ensure that hoists are inspected annually by a certified inspector through EHSD
• Always hold tension on the cable when reeling it in or out.
• When the work is complete, always rig the hoist down and secure it.
• When the load block or hook is at floor level or its lowest point of travel, ensure that at least two turns of rope remain on the drum.
• Be prepared to stop operations immediately if signaled by the safety watch or another person.

Picking Up Loads with Hoists

Ensure that the hoist is directly above a load before picking it up. This keeps the hoist from becoming stressed. Picking up loads at odd angles may result in injury to people or damage to the construction hoist. Do not pick up loads by running the cable through, over, or around obstructions. These obstructions can foul the cable or catch on the load and cause an accident.

Avoiding Electrical Hazards with Hoists

Do not hoist loads when any portion of the hoisting equipment or suspended load can come within 6 feet of high-voltage electrical lines or equipment. If you need to hoist near high-voltage electrical lines or equipment, obtain clearance from your supervisor first.

Inspecting Hoists

Hoists should be inspected daily. If there is any question about the working condition of a hoist, do not use it. Hoist inspectors should note the following:

• The hooks on all blocks, including snatch blocks, must have properly working safety latches.
• All hooks on hoisting equipment should be free of cracks and damage.
• The maximum load capacity for the hoist must be noted on the equipment.
• Cables and wiring should be intact and free of damage.