7.11 SAFE USE OF WINCHES USED FOR LIFTING
In addition to the general requirements for the safe use of lifting equipment given in section 1.9 SAFE USE OF LIFTING EQUIPMENT and in the appropriate sections of this code relating to the specific equipment in use with the winch, the following recommendations should be followed:
When transporting, handling or lifting a winch, use only the means provided for that purpose. Never attempt to lift by the drum, operating handle or drive shaft, etc.
Ensure the rigging method used is adequate for the load to be lifted so that the winch, its fixings, suspension pulleys and the suspension points of pulley blocks are not overloaded by the imposed loads.
In the case of plate sided winches, never attempt to lift other than light loads in the fast gear as this may place excessive forces on the operating handles and shafts. The higher speed gears should only be used for rope extension/retraction when unloaded. If any doubt exists, use only the slow speed gears.
In the case of dual speed power operated winches, select a speed appropriate to the specific lifting operation in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Ensure that steps are taken to prevent water, oil or other foreign matter coming into contact with lined brakes. Where contamination has occurred, do not use the winch as the brake may have lost its effectiveness.
Where the direction of rotation is indicated on the operating handle, ensure the winch lifts the load when the handle is turned in that direction.
In the case of manually operated winches, ensure that operating handles are correctly fitted and secure before attempting to use the winch.
If the winch is fitted with sliding gears, ensure the gears are correctly in place and that the locking device is correctly applied to prevent the gears disengaging whilst in use.
In the case of winches with a manual gravity pawl, ensure that the pawl is engaged with the ratchet wheel when lifting. It must be out of engagement when lowering and the load controlled by the winding handles and brake. Never try to stop a falling load with the pawl.
Verify brake or sustaining mechanism integrity before lifting. Raise the load just clear of the ground and halt the lift. Ensure the load is sustained with no downward movement before proceeding with the lift.
Prior to operating the winch, ensure the wire rope is not twisted, is correctly positioned in pulleys, etc. and that it is able to move freely between pulleys. Where ropes are in positions which may be dangerous when movement takes place, ensure that they are guarded or that adequate steps are taken to protect personnel or property against any hazard which may arise.
Keep hands, feet, etc. away from ropes, winch drums, pulleys and similar danger areas so as to avoid trapping, laceration or similar injuries when the winch is operated. Remember even slow moving ropes can be dangerous. Stand in a safe place and be sure to keep out of the bight. Beware of flying equipment, particularly the rope, in the event of a failure.
Steps must be taken to ensure inadvertent or accidental operation of the winch cannot occur. Whilst in use, winches should always be attended.
For people carrying applications, use only winches specifically designed and intended for that purpose. Strictly follow the manufacturer’s instructions with regard to both the rigging and operation.
Care must be taken to ensure that too much rope is not wound onto or off the winch drum. Where limits or stops are fitted, they are a safety device intended for this purpose and should not be used as working stops for load positioning. It is more often the case that no such limits are fitted and that the overwind/underwind is controlled by the skill of the operative. In such cases, steps must be taken to ensure the operative is able to assess the rope position, such as colour markings on the rope to indicate when its fully extended or retracted positions are reached.