Hoist-Safety Training

Construction is a high hazard industry that requires workers to operate dangerous types of machinery, according to the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Hoist-safety practices apply to construction workers who will be lifted by planks or elevators to perform their jobs in inaccessible places.

Manufacturer Compliance

• According to OSHA, construction workers must adhere to the safety standards (and warnings) that the manufacturer of the hoisting device puts on the machinery. If safety standards are not present, the safety standards must be developed by an engineer. Hoist-safety training educates workers about where to locate the safety standards on the equipment.

Motion and Movement

• When hoists are in motion, workers must maintain their positioning on the plank and limit their physical movements. It is dangerous to dangle arms or legs outside of hoists while in motion.

Materials and Personnel Hoists

• Material hoists are for lifting materials and equipment, and personnel hoists are designed for lifting workers. Hoist-safety training distinguishes between material and personnel hoists as defined by OSHA, and ensures workers understand that they are not to ride on material hoists. Doing so can result in a collapse of the hoist, which can lead to serious injuries or fatalities.

Inspection

• Workers should always inspect equipment before operating it. Hoist-safety training teaches employees how to test the brakes and other controls for hoists, as well as how to identify equipment hazards or defects.