21.6 INFORMATION WHICH SHOULD BE EXCHANGED BETWEEN THE USER AND THE DESIGNER OR SUPPLIER

The following is the minimum amount of information which should be exchanged between the user and designer or supplier of a lifting beam:

  1. The reason for using a lifting beam instead of other methods of handling the load.

  2. The total maximum weight of the load to be lifted together with any other forces which may be superimposed on the load.

  3. A detailed description or drawing of the load to be lifted together with principal dimensions which affect the lifting operation including information on the position of the centre of gravity and available headroom.

  4. Details of external obstructions to the use of the beam. Attention is drawn to the fact that a lifting beam could foul the structure of a double beam crane before the upper limit is reached.

  5. The exact type, dimensions and capacity of the crane hook and SWL of the crane. Particular attention should be paid to the safety catch fittings and guards.

  6. The speed and duty rating of the crane.

  7. Frequency of use.

  8. Environmental considerations such as extremes of temperature or corrosive atmospheres.

  9. The level of operatives’ skill and ergonomic considerations. It should be made clear if the beam is to be used by unskilled labour or if the design of the lifting operation requires the attention of a skilled fitter. If manipulation of the beam is necessary in order to carry out the lift, then the labour availability and requirements should be specified.

  10. Operating assembly and storage instructions.

  11. Any additional tests required by the purchaser.

  12. The weight of the lifting beam.