Typical hazards from lifting equipment
Material handling is essential in a wide range of applications like agriculture, construction, warehouse, factories etc. and workers are often exposed to heavy loads and other hazards on these job sites. Lifting equipment always needs to be handled with precautionary measures in place or they can cause several work-related hazards. Whether it is a chain sling, shackle or mooring equipment, Dutest advocates for safe lifting operations that should be planned and performed by qualified workers.
Let us look at some hazards associated with lifting gear that can increase the risk of injury on job sites
Hazard from wrong selection of equipment
Before lifting a load, a risk assessment of the area and load dimensions should be taken to choose the right sling for the job. A wrong selection can cause external obstructions and damage to the loads edges or surfaces and can also cause the sling to break. Overloading a sling can also lead to shock loading and exposing it to certain chemicals can damage the equipment.
Electrical Hazards
When electrical tools are in operation there exists a complete circuit between the tool and source of energy. If the tool is damaged a worker may encounter the electricity & get shocked. Improper grounding with exposed electrical parts, inadequate wiring, overloaded circuits, wet conditions and damaged insulation can all be potential electrical hazards.
Equipment malfunction
Equipment malfunction will vary considerably according to the type of equipment like cranes, lever block or drum lifters and the kind of failure that can happen. Some of the most severe injuries that result from a malfunction are traumatic brain & spinal cord injuries. Equipment failures can cause the drop of a bucket, boom swings and flying debris. Defective drills and pumps and failed cables and bolts can all be examples of equipment failure.
Other risks in heavy lifting operations can include:
- Machine handling by unskilled employees who have not been given proper instructions, training and information on how to protect themselves from hazards.
- Poor housekeeping that involves clutter that blocks fire & emergency exits and over-stacking loads on racks that can lead to falling loads. Water leakages or clutter can also cause trips and falls.
- Lack of wearing personal protective equipment can present several tragedies to employees like respiratory diseases from exposure to toxic chemicals or head injuries from falling debris.
As leading Lifting Equipment Suppliers In UAE, Dutest delivers a range of lifting solutions as per clients need which are compliant with safe occupational standards and dimension sizes adhering to specific sites.
Visit our website for more information.
Comments
Post a Comment