7.5.7 Service Conditions
Generally winches are manufactured to meet normal service conditions and assume:
Use under cover, i.e. not directly exposed to the elements.
Use at ambient temperatures between -10°C and 40°C with no sources of high local heating and cooling.
Use in clean air free from excess of humidity, contamination and deposits.
It should be noted however that some designs of winch may operate successfully in cold or damp conditions. In some other cases, special arrangements are possible to prevent the brake/brake linings being affected by such conditions. It is therefore necessary to discuss any service conditions, other than that deemed to be normal, with the supplier to ensure correct selection.
7.5.7.1 Environmental conditions
Examples of environmental conditions requiring special attention are:
Outdoor use.
Salt air.
High humidity.
Ambient temperatures above or below the normal range.
The presence of local heat sources, e.g. furnaces.
Dust/abrasives in the atmosphere.
7.5.7.2 Hazardous substances
If the winch is to be used in association with hazardous substances, special consideration is necessary. Hazardous substances fall into two main groups; those that would harm the winch and its associated equipment, e.g. corrosives; and those that may be affected by the operation of the winch, e.g. explosives. Examples of hazardous substances requiring special attention are:
Flammable or explosive gases, vapours or dust.
Corrosive vapours and liquids, acids and alkalis.
Volatile liquids.
Toxic substances.
Molten metal.
7.5.7.3 Other potential hazards
Other potential hazards may arise as the result of the work being carried out in the general location or be caused by the winch performing lifting operations over the heads of personnel or similar. Examples of such potential hazards requiring special attention are:
Use in mines and quarries.
Use in laundries.
Use in galvanizing, pickling and hot dipping processes.
Use in paint shops.
Use over work areas.
Use over walkways and footpaths.