Tip 1: Look at the lifting situation
For starters, it is important not only to analyze the lifting job beforehand, but also to scan the environment carefully. Safe hoisting requires your full attention, so don't get started in a chaotic workplace situation. Never hoist a person as a load over a load over a person. Always look at the weight of the load and the maximum allowable working load of the lifting equipment before you start. This is listed on th.e label. You will also find the date of the last inspection on it. Is information missing or not legible? Do not use the hoisting equipment. Always inspect the hoisting equipment visually before use and make sure that your colleagues can no longer use the hoisting equipment if it is rejected.
Tip 2: Save time with safety
The time saved by hoisting "just quickly" can cost you dearly. When the workload is high, people tend to take risks. Never be influenced by time or haste around you and make sure you are consciously working on your hoisting job. This will keep not only yourself but also your colleagues as safe as possible. Always apply the hoisting instructions as described in the manual of your hoisting equipment.
Tip 3: Certificate your lifting gear
A certificate assures you that a hoisting device is certified according to the guidelines of the Erkende Keurbedrijven Hijsmiddelen (EKH). So you know whether the hoisting equipment is up-to-date in terms of testing and inspections. The certificate contains all the details of the specific hoisting equipment. The certificate can be used to verify that the hoisting equipment is in its original condition during an inspection. Certification brings many advantages. For example, you are always insured in case of accidents. Re-inspections with certification are usually cheaper than without certification.
Tip 4: Have your lifting equipment inspected in a timely manner
Having your lifting and hoisting equipment inspected annually by an expert is mandatory. It is important that this is done on time. Once the deadline is exceeded and an accident occurs, this can have serious consequences. Despite the fact that annual inspection works well preventively, it does not fully guarantee that lifting equipment is safe at all times. To reduce risks, always visually inspect the lifting equipment before use. Are there any visible rust spots? See cracks or other signs of wear? Are the electronic controls present working properly? When in doubt, always make the decision to be sure and, if necessary, have an inspection performed by an expert!
More information about the current inspection deadlines per lifting equipment? Then look here!