Hoist Equipment Safety Factors

Hoist equipment is effective for transporting large materials or vehicles in the air from one point to another. However, hoist equipment also has the potential to be dangerous when precautions are neglected. The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration has safety standards in place to minimize hoist equipment risks.

Capacity

• Hoist equipment can become unsafe when the maximum capacity of weight is exceeded by the materials being hoisted. To eliminate this type of safety hazard, machine operators should inspect the hoist equipment to determine what the maximum capacity is and make sure the materials are at a safe weight.

Condition

• A hoist that is in poor condition poses safety hazards because it exposes workers to the potential for the hoist equipment to malfunction. Prior to using hoists, make sure the equipment is in good condition and is free from damage, severe wear or torn parts.

Personal Protection

• Workers who operate or work proximal to hoist equipment must wear appropriate personal protection to avoid injuries. Hardhats are essential for construction zones, especially when it comes to working in environments where heavy materials are lifted overhead.

Operation

• Operating hoist equipment requires workers to pay strict attention to the machinery. They must ensure that the materials being hoisted are in their view at all times so that the equipment does not collide into other structures.