21.10 SAFE USE OF LIFTING BEAMS, SPREADERS AND FRAMES

In addition to any specific instructions relating to the safe use of the lifting beam issued by the manufacturer, the following points should be observed. Reference should also be made to the individual sections of this code for the safe use of loose and detachable lifting accessories.

  1. Most lifting beams and spreaders are designed for a specific purpose and should not be used for other purposes without reference to a Competent Person.

  2. Lifting beams with lifting points designed for a particular crane hook size should always be used on the specified hook. Failure to do so can cause damage to both the hook and the lifting point.

  3. When using a lifting beam designed for operating with two cranes in tandem, the rules for multilifting and reducing the lifting capacities of the cranes must be observed. Refer to the equipment manufacturers instructions or suitable LEEA member organisation for guidance

  4. The use of load manipulation devices such as tag lines, Push/Pull Poles , etc is essential when manipulating long loads on a beam with a single suspension point. Where tag lines are used they should be of adequate length so that the personnel controlling the load can stand well clear of it. Tag lines must not be used to attempt to balance the load.

  5. The lifting beam should remain in its intended attitude during use.

  6. Lifting beams with multiple attachment points need particular attention to ensure that the SWL on the individual point is not exceeded.

  7. When lifting or setting the load down, care should be taken to ensure that individual load attachment points are not overloaded.

  8. The lifting beam should not be allowed to foul the underside of the crane structure. If this is possible then consideration should be given to adjusting the limit switch of the crane to a lower position.

  9. The weight of the beam must be added to the weight of the load when assessing the overall load on the crane hook.

  10. When using beams with adjustable lifting points, particular care must be taken to ensure that the manufacturer’s specified loadings for the centres chosen are not exceeded.