Throughout this article the topic of safety as regards to lifting gear products will be examined.

Utilizing any sort of lifting gear, regardless of whether it's a small item like a shackle or chain sling, or a larger piece of equipment like an electric hoist or jib crane can be dangerous if specific procedures aren't adopted. Some time ago new regulations were released regarding the safe use of lifting gear, it is referred to as L.O.L.E.R; or lifting operations and lifting equipment regulations. These regulations in addition include inspection processes for lifting devices to ensure they meet the requirements stipulated.

We will now look at perhaps the most important aspects of safety regarding utilizing any lifting gear product.

The safe working load (SWL) of any lifting gear is crucial to its safety, and needs to be easily noticeable on every product, if not then it will need testing to evaluate the SWL and a test certificate should be issued to substantiate this. The safe working load is the utmost weight the device can lift safely, and so must never be loaded in excess of this limit, it is usually advised to utilize a device with added capacity to what you might be likely to need to allow for mistakes yet providing better safety.

Almost certainly the next most essential issues to think about is going to be looking after your lifting equipment, a check should be completed prior to each use to check for problems, for example slack bolts, deformed chain or cracked weld joints. Every kind of lifting gear must be inspected by a qualified person at regular intervals, and load tested where appropriate, this process should be issued with a new test certificate for your records to indicate the device is safe to use. Most lifting devices should be inspected on a 6 or 12 monthly basis, a reputable lifting gear company will recommend the suitable testing period for your device. Remember that employers are responsible for ensuring machinery and equipment meets all regulations.

One more excellent safety practice to carry out prior to each use is the trial lift, highly recommended by experienced lifting gear operators. This practice is done by securely connecting the item to the chosen lifting device and then very gradually and gently raise it just off the ground, the object may then be assessed to ensure it is held securely and is well balanced, at this stage it can be effortlessly lowered and corrections made if necessary. Carrying out this practice before the entire lift will greatly decrease the risk of the lift failing and causing injury.

Experience in the mechanics of lifting practices is of huge benefit to the safety of the application, it can therefore be a very good idea to obtain training for inexperienced users to minimise the risk of accidents. Manufacturers user guidelines and all safety procedures must be adopted at all times.

The above talked about basic guidelines should always be followed, failure to take action could possibly result in accidents, leading to fines , or even worse, a severely disabling injury or even death. Always remember, safety first.