3 Keys to Safe Lifting and Mistakes to Avoid
Lifting heavy loads is one of the most delicate and dangerous tasks in any industrial operation. Lifting maneuvers not only involve the handling of large volumes and weights but also require a thorough understanding of techniques, equipment, and regulations that protect both personnel and facilities.
Below, we will address the most important aspects for performing a safe lift and the practices that should be avoided to ensure a safe and efficient work environment.
According to OSHA, approximately 39% of crane lifting accidents are due to contact with power lines, 12% to errors in assembly or disassembly, and 8% to mechanical failures, such as crane arm collapse.
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1. Planning
One of the fundamental pillars for carrying out a proper lift is adequate planning. This includes identifying all associated risks and selecting the correct methods to carry out the task. Before lifting any load, it is vital to calculate its exact weight and center of gravity, ensuring that the lifting equipment can support the weight without compromising its integrity.
The selection of lifting equipment also plays an essential role. Slings, hooks, and other components must be in optimal condition. Additionally, every worker involved should be trained and equipped with the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as helmets, gloves, harnesses, and reflective vests.
2. Communication
Lifting loads not only involves crane or forklift operators, but also requires precise coordination among all team members. One of the most effective methods to ensure this coordination is the use of clear and standardized hand signals. A good lift always includes a supervisor or signalman who, with full visibility of the process, guides the operators through visual or auditory signals. It is important to remember that during the maneuver, no worker should be positioned underneath a suspended load. Keeping restricted areas properly marked is crucial to avoid accidents. The selection of lifting equipment also plays an essential role. Slings, hooks, and other components must be in optimal condition. Additionally, every worker involved should be trained and equipped with the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as helmets, gloves, harnesses, and reflective vests.
3. Equipment Quality Control and Safety
Each item used in the lifting operation must be thoroughly inspected beforehand. This includes cranes, rigging, and any other machinery involved. Regular equipment inspections are part of a preventive safety policy. A good practice is to perform daily inspections, especially before the operation, to identify any potential failures or wear in the components. Common mistakes such as using damaged slings, hooks without safety latches, or twisted chains can lead to serious accidents. A safe procedure requires that these items be in optimal condition before use. The selection of lifting equipment also plays an essential role. Slings, hooks, and other components must be in optimal condition. Additionally, every worker involved should be trained and equipped with the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as helmets, gloves, harnesses, and reflective vests.
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4. What NOT to do in a lifting operation?
Now that we’ve discussed the best practices, it’s important to highlight what should not be done to avoid dangerous situations:
Inclined or Lateral Lifts
All lifts should be vertical. An inclined lift can cause dangerous oscillations that compromise the stability of the load.
Passing loads over areas with personnel
Loads should not pass over areas where workers are present. This poses an unnecessary risk in case the lifting system fails.
Improvising equipment repairs
Welding parts of the equipment, or using bolts or cables to temporarily repair a damaged chain, is an extremely dangerous practice. Damaged parts must be completely replaced.
Ignoring the center of gravity of the load
Incorrect weight distribution can overturn the load and cause an accident. It is always necessary to balance the load before lifting.
Overloading the equipment
Each crane, sling, or chain has a maximum load capacity. Overloading the equipment not only causes accelerated wear but can lead to a catastrophic system failure.
International standards and best practices are designed to protect both workers and facilities, and it is everyone's responsibility to follow them to the letter. In summary, a successful lift is based on adhering to procedures, effective communication, and implementing strict safety controls. Doing it wrong can have devastating consequences; doing it right is a matter of professionalism and responsibility.
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