7.A1.6 SAFE USE OF SUSPENDED WINCHES

The general recommendations for the safe of winches will apply with the addition of the following:

  1. In the case of suspended winches using a top hook suspension, the hook should be fitted with a safety catch. The hook should be attached to its support in such a manner that the support fits freely into the seat of the hook. Care must be taken to ensure the support does not exert any side thrust upon the point of the hook or catch. Care is also needed to keep the axis of the hook cross section square to that of the support.

  2. In the case of suspended winches using a top shackle suspension, similar care is needed. Additionally, it is necessary to ensure that the shackle pin does not work loose. It is recommended that wherever possible bolt and nut pins fitted with cotter retaining pins are used.

  3. When lifting, it is important that the load is directly below the bottom hook so that no side loading occurs as the lift commences. Side loading can result in the wire rope rubbing against the top sheave mounting bracket causing damage both to the rope and the bracket and it can also cause the load to swing.

  4. When using suspended winches in association with trolleys to move suspended loads, care is needed to prevent the load or the winch from swinging. Not only will a swinging load impose greater forces on the equipment but there is also the danger of it striking personnel etc.