1.10.1 Operative Training
All operatives are required by this code of practice to be trained in the use of the lifting equipment they will operate. This code of practice also imposes a duty on them to use only equipment for which they have received training or instruction and to use it only in the manner for which they have been trained or instructed. It is recommended that formal training be undertaken and a record kept that the operative reached a satisfactory standard. The following lists the general matters which the operative training should take into account. Each section of the code then refers to the product specific matters to be addressed.
They shall be informed of the specific use for which the item of lifting equipment is intended and have access to the manufacturers and any appropriate instructions for use.
They shall be shown the correct method of use of the item(s). Warning should be given as to incorrect methods of use and dangerous practices, together with an explanation of the possible outcome.
They should be instructed in the recognition of the marking on the equipment and its meaning, including any limitations this may impose on the use.
They should be instructed in the daily check procedure, including any requirements imposed by the manufacturer, supplier or Competent Person.
They should be informed of the pre-use inspections to be made, including load and angle estimation, where applicable, and the identification of basic equipment defects together with the procedure for reporting these to the Competent Person.
They should be instructed in the correct methods of attaching the load, slings and other accessories to the load hook of the appliance.
They should be informed of the pre-lift checks to be carried out, e.g. trial lift.
They should be instructed in the lifting and lowering procedures to be adopted. For complicated lifting operations, written systems of work, complete with diagrams, should be issued to operatives or be on permanent display in the vicinity of the lifting operation. Operatives should be familiar with their role within the lift plan.
Where applicable, they should be instructed in the signals to be used when more than one operative is involved in the lifting operation.
They should be conversant with the possible faults which can occur in use and understand the withdrawal from service and reporting procedures applicable to the site.
They should be instructed in the procedures to be adopted on completion of the lifting operation, including the correct methods of preparing portable items and accessories for transportation and storage.
They should understand the correct methods of storage and the need to ensure these requirements are observed.
Emphasis should be given to safe systems of work and operatives should be encouraged to seek advice when in doubt.