Electric hoistsare powerful and efficient tools used for lifting heavy objects in various industrial and construction settings. Sin embargo, to ensure safe operation and to prevent accidents or damage to both the hoist and the environment, users must adhere to a set of safety guidelines. The following is a comprehensive set of safety precautions that should be followed when usingelectric hoists.
1. Familiarize Yourself with the User Manual and Nameplate
Before operating an electric hoist, it is crucial to thoroughly read and understand the user manual, along with any safety instructions provided on the nameplate of the hoist. The user manual contains essential information about the hoist’s operation, maintenance, and safety features. The nameplate, often located on the hoist’s body, provides specific details about the model, capacidad de carga, voltage, and other key operational data. Familiarity with these documents will help prevent misuse and ensure safe operation.
2. Adjust the Upper and Lower Limit Stops Before Lifting
Electric hoistsare equipped with limit stops designed to prevent the hoist from operating beyond a certain point in the upward or downward direction. Before lifting any load, make sure the upper and lower limit stops are properly adjusted and set according to the hoist’s operational range. This ensures that the hoist won’t accidentally lift the load too high or lower it too far, reducing the risk of mechanical damage or injury.
3. Check the Condition of the Brake System
Before use, always verify the condition of the hoist’s braking system. The brakes must function reliably to prevent the load from slipping or falling when the hoist is in use. A malfunctioning brake system can result in serious accidents, including injury or damage to property. If the brakes are worn or damaged, they must be repaired or replaced before the hoist is used.
4. Inspect the Steel Wire Rope for Damage or Wear
Steel wire ropes are a critical component of electric hoists, as they support the weight of the load being lifted. Before operating the hoist, carefully inspect the steel wire rope for any signs of bending, deformation, corrosión, or fraying. If the rope is found to be damaged, worn out, or showing excessive wear, it should be replaced immediately. Do not attempt to operate the hoist with a damaged rope, as this could lead to rope failure and cause the load to fall.
5. Conduct an Insulation Resistance Test
Before installation and use, the hoist’s motor and control box should be checked for insulation resistance using a 500V megohmmeter. The insulation resistance should be greater than 5MΩ under normal temperature conditions. This test is crucial to ensure the electrical components are properly insulated, preventing electrical shocks, short circuits, or fire hazards. If the insulation resistance is too low, the hoist should not be used until the issue is addressed.
6. Do Not Exceed the Rated Load Capacity
One of the most important safety rules when using an electric hoist is to never exceed the rated load capacity. The rated load capacity is clearly marked on the hoist’s hook or nameplate. Overloading the hoist can cause excessive strain on the motor, gearbox, and other mechanical parts, leading to premature wear or failure. It also increases the risk of accidents, such as the hoist tipping over, the rope breaking, or the load falling. Always ensure that the load does not exceed the specified weight limit for safe operation.
7. Do Not Lift People or Allow People to Ride on the Load
Electric hoists are designed for lifting materials, not people. Never attempt to lift people using an electric hoist, as the hoist is not designed to handle human loads. Además, do not allow workers to stand under or near the load while it is being lifted. People can easily be injured if the load shifts, falls, or is not properly secured. Always ensure that personnel are clear of the hoist’s operational path and that the load is adequately supported.
8. Ensure No Personnel Are Underneath the Lifted Load
To prevent injuries, it is essential that no one is positioned directly under a suspended load. If a load were to slip or fail, anyone underneath it could be seriously injured or killed. Always ensure that all personnel are at a safe distance from the lifting area, and establish a clear zone where no one should enter when the hoist is in use.
9. Do Not Operate the Hoist with Swinging Loads
Never attempt to lift or move a load if it is swinging or swaying. Swinging loads can be unstable and difficult to control, leading to accidents or damage to the load or hoist. If the load is swinging, gently stop the motion before proceeding with the lift. It’s crucial to ensure that the load is stable and secure before lifting.
10. Lift Loads Vertically and Avoid Slanting the Hoist
When lifting a load, always position the hoist directly above the load to ensure that it is lifted vertically. Never attempt to lift a load at an angle or slant, as this can cause the load to become unbalanced, potentially leading to accidents or damage. Make sure that the hoist is aligned with the load before activating it to ensure a stable lift.
11. Do Not Use the Limit Switches as Routine Operating Mechanisms
Limit switches are safety devices used to stop the hoist when it reaches its maximum upward or downward movement. Sin embargo, they should not be used as regular operating switches. Repeatedly using the limit switches as operational controls can lead to damage or malfunction. The limit switches are designed to serve as a backup to prevent the hoist from exceeding its safe operating range. They should only activate in an emergency or as a safety precaution.
12. Do Not Lift Objects Attached to the Ground
Electric hoists should never be used to lift objects that are physically connected to the ground or any other structure. This includes items like fixed machinery or structures that are bolted to the floor. Attempting to lift such objects could cause severe mechanical stress on the hoist and could damage both the hoist and the object being lifted. Always ensure that the load is free to be lifted before engaging the hoist.
13. Avoid Overuse of the “Jog” o “Momentary” Controls
Electric hoists are often equipped with a “jog” o “momentary” control, which allows the operator to move the load in small increments. While this feature is useful for precise positioning, overuse of this control can cause overheating and undue strain on the hoist’s motor and electrical components. Avoid excessive or continuous jogging and use the hoist’s standard control to raise or lower the load whenever possible.
14. Do Not Pull Other Objects with the Hoist’s Pendant Control
The pendant control or remote control used to operate the hoist should only be used to control the hoist itself. Never use the hoist’s pendant control to pull or move other objects. Doing so could cause the hoist’s components to become overloaded or damaged, and could lead to an unsafe operating condition.
15. Disconnect the Power Before Performing Maintenance or Inspection
Before conducting any maintenance, inspección, or repair work on the hoist, always ensure that the power is turned off and disconnected. This prevents the accidental operation of the hoist during maintenance, which could result in injury or further damage. Always follow proper lock-out/tag-out procedures to ensure the electrical supply is completely isolated.
16. Perform Maintenance and Inspections Only When the Hoist Is Unloaded
All maintenance and inspection activities should be performed when the hoist is not carrying any load. This reduces the risk of accidents and makes the inspection process safer. Always ensure that the hoist is in a non-operational state and that the power supply is disconnected before performing any tasks that involve working on the hoist.
17. Ensure the Wedge Block Is Securely Installed
The wedge block is an essential part of the hoist system, helping to secure the load. Before using the hoist, always verify that the wedge block is properly installed and securely fastened. An improperly installed wedge block can result in the load slipping or falling, leading to potential hazards.
Conclusión
Operating an electric hoist requires careful attention to safety precautions to prevent accidents, protect personnel, and ensure the hoist operates at peak efficiency. By adhering to these safety guidelines, operators can significantly reduce the risk of injury and damage to equipment. Regular inspections, proper training, and a thorough understanding of the hoist’s capabilities and limitations are essential for safe and effective hoist operation. Always prioritize safety and ensure that the hoist is used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and recommended safety standards.
