What Is

What Is Rigging
Rigging &
& Slinging?
Slinging?
Rigging & slinging is the transfer of a
wide variety of materials by using lifting
appliances and lifting / rigging gear.
This must be done safely with well
maintained equipment and trained
competent persons.
If an object is suspended, there is a
possibility that it may fall, especially if
it is lifted using faulty equipment or is
badly slung, the consequences can be
serious.

Rigging & slinging can be extremely

dangerous if not carried out correctly.

ANY FALLING LOAD CAN

KILL
 DUTIES OF
DUTIES OF
RIGGERS, CRANE
RIGGERS, CRANE
OPERATORS AND
OPERATORS AND DOGGERS
DOGGERS

It is the duty of riggers, crane

operators and doggers to safeguard
life and limb of both yourself and
others working in the vicinity of the
operation, or likely to enter the
vicinity.
RESPONSIBILITIES
RESPONSIBILITIES OF
OF RIGGERS
RIGGERS
1. To use the right equipment for the right job.
2. To make sure they know the lifting
procedures.
3. To use the equipment in the proper way.
4. To be able to select lifting appliances.
5. To be able to calculate the SWL
6. To be able to visually inspect the lifting gear
before use.
7. To direct the crane operator by giving hand
signals or radio communication.
 RESPONSIBILITIES
MANAGEMENT
MEN ON THE JOB
SUPPLY OF RIGGING EQUIPMENT
SUPERVISOR
RIGGING OPERATION
PLANNING THE BEST METHOD
RIGGER
USE THE EQUIPMENT CORRECTLY
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN:

A GOOD RIGGER & A BAD RIGGER?

RUSSIAN
ROULETTE
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
P.P.E. must be worn at all times, such as:
 safety helmets
 protective clothing
 safety footwear
 eye and ear protection
 gloves
 breathing apparatus (when appropriate)
Safety helmets:
Approved plastic or fibreglass
safety helmets shall be worn on
the job site.

Protective clothing:
Suitable protective clothing shall be worn, such
as:
o coveralls
o long trousers and shirts
Shorts or sleeveless T-shirts shall not be worn.
Safety footwear:
Steel capped safety boots / shoes shall be worn
on the job site to prevent crushing injuries.

Eye protection:
Safety goggles or glasses shall
be worn at all times.

Gloves:
Gloves will prevent minor injuries. Always wear
leather gloves when handling wire rope.
Hearing protection:
Hearing protection shall be worn in all high noise
areas.
There are basically 3 types of hearing protectors:
1. Aural Insert Protectors (Ear Plugs)
2. Semi-Aural Protectors (Canal Caps)
3. Circumaural Protectors (Ear Muffs)
Ear Plugs:
Disposable ear plugs shall only be used for 1
day. If they become contaminated with oil,
grease, dirt or sweat, they should be replaced
immediately.
If worn correctly, ear plugs can reduce noise
levels by 20 decibels.
Canal Caps:
Canal caps are molded to the exact
configurations of the individual ear. It can be
washed, sterilized and used again. If worn
correctly, it can reduce noise levels by 10-25
decibels.
Ear Muffs:
Ear muffs cover the whole ear. They can be worn
in addition to ear plugs in very high noise areas.
If worn correctly, ear muffs can reduce noise
levels by 15-25 decibels.
They must be regularly cleaned with a
disinfectant.

Breathing apparatus:
Self contained breathing apparatus shall be worn
in areas where a toxic atmosphere or an oxygen
deficient atmosphere exists.
 Permit To Work
Definition:
Permit to Work is a formal written system used to
control certain types of work that are potentially
dangerous. It specifies the work to be done and the
precautions to be taken. It is part of the safety
management system that provides communication
and coordination to control and mitigate those
hazards.
 Permit To Work
Purpose :
To control certain types of work that are potentially
hazardous. Which specifies the work to be done and
the precautions to be taken.
To ensure that all necessary steps are taken to
provide a safe working environment.
To ensure that everyone involved in the work is fully
aware of the nature of the work, any potential hazards
and how to carry it out in safe manner.
To prevent incidents, injuries to personnel and
damage to the equipment or the environment.
 Procedures

General Requirements :
• Work must be planned in advance by the
respective line supervisor.
• All relevant personnel who will execute the work
and others who could be influenced or affected by
it, shall also be well informed of the work plan.
• The work area and necessary equipment to be
used shall be inspected thoroughly by the
supervisors and all the necessary safety
precautions shall be strictly adhered to.
 Procedures

• Work to be carried out shall be fully supervised to

ensure safe working practices are followed.
• Work areas are to be cleared of all unnecessary
items that may affect the safety of other personnel
after the completion of work.
• The person in charge of work execution must
convey all information relating to the work or the
plan to the next person in charge at least 30
minutes before changing shift.
Types of Work Requiring PTW
• Work and / or entry into a confined space.
• Blasting, except at the blasting ground.
• Painting, except at the painting chamber.
• Lifting of more than 50 tonnes or utilizing at
least two cranes.
• Lifting of special equipment or utilizing a
special lifting method.
• Radiography Test (RT) of welding joints.
• Scaffolding erection and dismantling.
• Flushing / Hydro-testing of pipelines.
• Excavating more then 1 metre deep.
• Skidding or weighing of a structure.
 Types of Work Requiring PTW

• Work over water.

• Chemical cleaning of pipelines.
• Lubrication oil flushing of equipment or pipelines.
• Energizing of mechanical or electrical equipment.
• Reinstatement of pipelines.
• Commissioning of equipment or systems.
• Any other activity within the areas of affect of the
above work that requires a Permit To Work.
GOOD & BAD SLINGING
PRACTICES
MAIN CAUSES OF ACCIDENTS:

 IMPROPER SLINGING
 INADEQUATE INSPECTION
 LIFTING IN UNSAFE ENVIRONMENT
 PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE NOT DONE
 WRONG LIFTING APPLIANCES USED
 LAPSE OF CONCENTRATION
 WRONG LIFTING TECHNIQUE
/PROCEDURE
 WEIGHT OF LOAD NOT ASCERTAINED
WHAT ARE THE UNSAFE ACTS AND
UNSAFE CONDITIONS HERE ?
(A) No crane hook safety clip (H) Insecure slinging
(B) Shackle between hook & ring (I) Safety helmet not worn
(C) Sling angle (J) Improper hand signal
(D) Knotted sling (K) SWL of sling
(E) Spare sling legs insecure (L) Tag lines not used
(F) Load not level (M) Outrigger on soft ground
(G) Insecure load
EXAMINE YOUR LIFTING GEAR
BEFORE USE
“THE GUESSING GAME IS NO GAME FOR
THOSE IN THE RIGGING GAME”
 USE TAG LINES TO CONTROL ALL
LOADS……

No Yes
SECURE ALL
UNUSED SLING
LEGS.
SUPPLY BOATS ARE HEAVY
MAKE SURE ALL SEA FASTENINGS
ARE REMOVED PRIOR TO LIFTING.

LIFTING MORE THAN ONE PLATE AT

A TIME…….
CAN SERIOUSLY DAMAGE YOUR
HEALTH.

BEWARE OF UNWANTED
MOVEMENT OF YOUR LOAD……….
 Severe bending

DO NOT PERMIT BENDING NEAR

ANY ATTACHED FITTING!

L
CHECK ON THE SLING ANGLE:
IF L IS GREATER THAN S THEN
SLING ANGLE IS OK.
S
S

DO NOT USE SREW PIN SHACKLES

IF THE PIN CAN ROLL UNDER THE
LOAD AND UNSCREW.
USE ONLY ONE SIGNALMAN.

DO NOT ALLOW ANYONE

TO RIDE ON THE HOOK
OR LOAD.

DO NOT LIFT OVER PERSONNEL.

 …PAY ATTENTION.
…PAY ATTENTION.

DO NOT
DO NOT DRAG
DRAG A
A LOAD.
LOAD.

DO NOT
DO NOT OVERLOAD
OVERLOAD THE
THE
CRANE.
CRANE.
LIFT ONE LOAD AT A
TIME

KNOW THE LOAD AND

THE CAPACITY

DO NOT LEAVE
SUSPENDED LOADS
 Always keep the hooks and chain in a straight
line.

Stretching
 Good and bad rigging practices Good
Goodand
andbad
badrigging
riggingpractices
practices

Use of chokers Hook slings Eye bolts Hoisting structural steel

Good – hooks are

turned out

Good – no cutting action

on running lines Good-use Bad – can
space bend
Bad - hook openings blocks and flanges and
should be turned pad corners cut rope
Vertical lifts on eye bolt
out Eye splices:
is good practice
Bad – Bad – bolt
cutting on running
action of eye line can Double slings shall be used Good – note use of
splice on work loose when hoisting 2 or more thimble in eye splice
running line pieces of material over 12’
long
Suspending Needle Good – use thimble in
Beams or Scaffolds eye splice

Bad-wire rope knot with

clip. Efficiency 50% or less
Right-load over 12’ long

Good – sharp Bad-lifting on eye bolts from

Bad – Bad-thimble should be used
corners padded an angle reduces safe loads
steel can to increase strength of eye
Wrong-load over 12’ long as much as 90%
cut rope and reduce wear on rope
……MAKE
……MAKE SURE
SURE THAT
THAT ALL
ALL
EQUIPMENT
EQUIPMENT HAVE……
HAVE……
RIGGING &
RIGGING & SLINGING
SLINGING
EQUIPMENT
EQUIPMENT
 FIBRE ROPE TYPES
FIBRE ROPE:
Fibre rope can be made from natural fibres or synthetic
fibres. The natural fibre rope is derived from plants and
the synthetic fibre rope is made from chemicals.
NATURAL FIBRE ROPE:
The length of the fibres in natural fibre rope is at most
a few feet and the effectiveness in this state is very
limited.
CONSTRUCTION USES:
The only type of natural fibre rope that is used in the
construction industry is Number One Grade Manila.
Other types of natural fibre are not strong enough or
deteriorate too quickly.
 FIBRE ROPE TYPES
MANILA ROPE
Number One Natural Manila is strong and
durable. It is recognized by its yellow color. As
the grade and strength decreases, the color
darkens. A low grade Manila is dark brown. The
minimum breaking strength of a one inch diameter
Manila rope is 9,000 lbs. (4.082 kg.)
 TYPES-CHARACTERISTICS
TYPES-CHARACTERISTICS
The following types of natural fibre ropes are not used
in the construction industry due to various undesirable
qualities.
HEMP
Hemp is the strongest of the natural fibre ropes. It
deteriorates quickly when wet.
SISAL
Sisal is approximately 75% strength of untarred hemp.
It will stand exposure to sea water.
COIR
Coir is made from coconut husk fibres. Very elastic and
about one quarter the strength of hemp. It will float on
water.
COTTON
Cotton is approximately 60% as strong as hemp.
SYNTHETIC FIBRE ROPE
Synthetic ropes have individual threads and fibres that
run continuously through the rope. All synthetic ropes
have a common characteristic and that is a resistance to
rot, mildew and more strength than natural fibre rope.
NYLON
Nylon is the strongest rope available. It will absorb
greater shock load than any other and outlasts all
natural fibre ropes by a wide margin. Nylon is flexible,
has high abrasion resistance, can be stored wet, resists
most alkalis and organic solvents. It will not rot.
POLYESTER (TERYLENE)
Polyester is not as strong as nylon, but it is twice the
strength of manila. It stretches far less than Nylon but
slightly more than Manila. It has excellent resistance to
abrasion, chemicals and weather.
POLYPROPYLENE
Polypropylene is the lightest, most economical and widely
used, rope on the market. The strength is far greater
than Manila. Other characteristics are long life, ease of
handling, flexibility in cold temperatures, excellent
resistance to most acid and alkalis and very good impact
loading. And it floats! It is supplied in many colors and
color combinations.
POLYETHYLENE
Polyethylene has 50% the strength of nylon and resist
acids and alkalis.
 SAFETY FACTORS DEPENDENT ON THE
CONDITION OF USE

FIBRE ROPE USED FOR ROPE FALLS OR HOISTING

PERSONAL HAS A SAFETY FACTOR OF 10.

FOR OTHER USES THE SAFETY FACTOR IS 5.

SAFETY FACTORS ARE USED TO ALLOW FOR THE

REDUCED CAPACITY OF ROPE DUE TO NORMAL
WEAR, INCLUDING EXPOSURE TO SUN AND
MOISTURE, OR THE EXTRA LOAD IMPOSED BY
JERKY LIFTING AND STOPPING.
Rules of thumb for new ropes when load
tables are not available.
MANILA ROPE:
– Change the rope diameter into eights of an inch.
– Square the numerator and multiply by 20.

Example:
– 1/2 inch manila rope = 4/8 inch diameter.
SWL = 4 x 4 x 20
= 320lb.
– 5/8 inch manila rope.
SWL = 5 x5
x 20 = 500 lb.
– 1 inch manila rope = 8/8 inch diameter.
NYLON ROPE:
– Change the rope diameter into eights of an inch.
– Square the numerator and multiply by 60.

Example:
– ½ inch nylon rope = 4/8 inch diameter.
SWL = 4 x 4 x 60 =
960 lb.
POLYPROPYLENE ROPE:
– Change the rope diameter into eights of an inch.
– Square the numerator and multiply by 40.

Example;
– ½ inch polypropylene rope = 4/8 inch diameter.
SWL = 4 x 4 x 40 =
POLYESTER ROPE:
– Change the rope diameter into eights of an inch.
– Square the numerator and multiply by 60.

Example:
– ½ inch polyester rope = 4/8 inch diameter.
SWL = x 4 x 60 = 960
lb.
POLYETHYLENE ROPE:
– Change the rope diameter into eighths of an inch.
– Square the numerator and multiply by 35.

Example:
– 1 inch polyethylene rope = 8/8 inch diameter.
SWL = 8 x 8 x 35 =
2240 lb.
 FIBRE ROPE BREAKING STRENGTH
REDUCTIONS
 Knots tied in fibre ropes reduce the strength by
approximately 50%.
 An eye splice reduces the strength of fibre rope by
20%.
 Fibre rope bent over sharp edges reduces the strength
by 50%.
 Fibre ropes tied around each other in a “U” reduce the
strength by 50%.
 Manila rope guylines should be slackened off if they
become wet as manila swells and become shorter.
 Approximate efficiency of polypropylene rope knots
and connections as compared to Safe Load on ropes.

Clove Hitch Bowline (outside) Bowline (inside)

75% 50% 53%

Square or Reef Knot Timber Hitch & Half Sheepshank

Hitch

43% 72% 50%

Short Splice Long Splice Eye Splice

80% 70% 85%

Straight length of rope without knots or splices represents 100% strength.

FIBRE
FIBRE ROPE
ROPE KNOTS
KNOTS &
&
HITCHES
HITCHES

CROWN KNOT
(BACK SPLICE)

2)
1)

3)
FIGURE EIGHT KNOT

REEF KNOT

TIMBER HITCH

NOT RECOMMENDED FOR

LIFTING LOADS

BOWLINE ON THE BIGHT

 SHEEPSHANK

CLOVE HITCH

CATSPAW

CARRICK BEND

ROUND TURN &

TWO HALF HITCHES
 BOWLINE

RUNNING
13 BOWLINE
SLIPPERY
CLOVE HITCH

15
ROLLING
1
HITCH Long

Short

2
SPANISH
3
BOWLINE
5 4
 FIBRE ROPE TERMINOLOGY

WHIPPING:
When cutting a natural fibre rope, the ends
must be taped or whipped with a small twine to
prevent the rope from untwisting.

MELTING:
As whipping will not stay in position on synthetic
fibre rope, the common practice is to melt the
strands together after cutting, with a torch or
lighter to prevent the ends from untwisting and
fraying.
 FIBRE ROPE INSPECTION

EVERY FOOT OF A ROPE SHOULD BE INSPECTED, AS

IT IS ONLY AS STRONG AS IT’S WEAKEST PART.

Inspect the outer surface for broken yarns or

fibres, then untwist the strands and observe the
inside. Broken fibres inside a rope indicate that
a rope has been overloaded. The interior yarns
of an overloaded rope will fail first.
 FIBRE ROPE INSPECTION

With a natural fibre rope, pull out a fibre and

try to break it, if it breaks easily the rope has
been overloaded or effected by mildew or dry
rot.
Exposure to sunlight will deteriorate a natural
fibre rope over a period of time.
 SYNTHETIC WEBBING SLINGS
Synthetic webbing slings are in common use
for lifting in our industry.
Synthetic webbing slings are intended for
use on the more delicate items where the
surface would be damaged by a wire rope
or chain sling.
The vast majority of slings are made out
of nylon, polyester or polypropylene.
The colour of the tag denotes the material
e.g. NYLON-GREEN, POLYESTER-BLUE &
POLYPROPYLENE-BROWN.
 DO NOT USE A SLING IF:-
• IT IS NOT MARKED WITH A S.W.L.
• THERE IS SIGN OF CUT WEBBING/SNAGGING.
• THERE IS HEAT OR CHEMICAL DAMAGE,
EXCESSIVE WEAR.
• THERE ARE DAMAGED SEAMS AND ANY OTHER
DEFECTS.
• THERE IS PRESENCE OF GRIT, ABRASIVE
MATERIALS OR OTHER DELETERIOUS MATTER.
IF ANY DEFECTS ARE FOUND, DISCARD OR
DESTROY THE SLING IMMEDIATELY.
 DON’T…….
• TIE
TIE KNOTS
KNOTS IN
IN SLINGS.
SLINGS.
• EXPOSE
EXPOSE SLINGS
9O
SLINGS TO
9O DEGREES
DEGREES C.
C.
TO TEMPERATURES
TEMPERATURES ABOVE
ABOVE

• ALLOW
ALLOW ABRASIVES
ABRASIVES OR
PENETRATE
PENETRATE THE
OR DAMAGING
THE FIBRES.
DAMAGING GRIT
FIBRES.
GRIT TO
TO

• USE
USE WEBBING
SHARP
WEBBING SLINGS
SHARP EDGES.
EDGES.
SLINGS ONON LOADS
LOADS WITH
WITH

• OVERLOAD
OVERLOAD THE
THE SLING.
SLING.
• USE
USE NEAR
NEAR CHEMICALS.
CHEMICALS.
 EYE TYPES-
STANDARD FLAT
SLINGS
Metal Dee (Plain Reduced Eye Reduced & Flat Eye
& Choker) reversed Eye
Best suited to Where small hooks For choker lift. Where minimum
lifts where eyes are used Gives square lift clearance is
get excessive to load on same required for
wear. plane as webbing use with
lifting jj
beams.

Length (measured pull to pull)

CORRECT
CORRECT METHOD
METHOD
OF
OF MEASURING
MEASURING
WEBBING
WEBBING SLINGS
SLINGS
Length (measured pull to pull)
PRE-USE INSPECTION OF WEBBING SLINGS
 CHECK THE SLING IS MARKED WITH SWL.
 MARKED WITH IDENTIFICATION NUMBER.
 COMPLETE WITH CERTIFICATES & DATE STAMP.
 SLING COLOUR CODING.

INSPECT THE ENTIRE LENGTH OF SLING FOR:

 CUTS/TEARS & CHAFFING.
 BURN MARKS / HEAT DAMAGE.
 CHEMICAL DAMAGE-FIBRES START TO
DISINTERGRATE WHEN RUBBED OR PICKED.
 BURST STITCHING, PARTICULARLY AROUND THE
EYES, TWISTING.
 ANY INDICATION OF FOREIGN BODIES INTO
FIBRES.
 IF THE SLING HAS METAL EYES, CHECK FOR
DISTORTION AND WEAR.
FIBRE SLINGS ARE DESIGNED FOR
THE MORE DELICATE LOADS………

……THEY ARE NOT INTENDED FOR

FOR USE ON ANGULAR OR
SHARP EDGED LOADS!
DAMAGED WEBBING SLINGS
LOAD BEARING DAMAGED EDGE
YARN IS TORN

SLEEVE AND
LOAD BEARING
YARN BURNT DAMAGED EDGE
THROUGH WITH BROKEN
CARRYING THREADS

DOUBLE SLEEVING
DAMAGED
 MECHANICAL
HAND SPLICE
SPLICE

FITTED WITH FITTED WITH WEDGE,

WIRE ROPE GRIPS SPELTER & SWAGE
SOCKETS
6 DIAMETERS – DEAD END

LIVE END
WIRE ROPE
DESCRIPTION
WIRE ROPE DESCRIPTION:
The properties of a wire rope are derived from
its size, construction, quality, lay and type of
core.
SIZE:
Ropes are referred to by a diameter size. The
correct way to measure wire rope is shown
below.
CONSTRUCTION:
The main components of a wire rope are shown
below.

In the above example, each individual wire is arranged

around a central wire to form a 7 – wire strand. Six of
these strands are formed around a central core to
make a wire rope. The rope is specified as 6x7 (6/1)
i,e. six strand each of seven wires.
CONSTRUCTION cont.
The construction of a rope for any given
application should be suited to the equipment
and to the conditions under which it will
operate.
ROPE GRADE:
The minimum tensile strength of the wire is
expressed in MEGAPASCALS.
LAY OF ROPE:
Lay effects behaviour and operating life of a
wire rope. It is important therefore to quote
(a) the direction of lay, and (b) the type of
lay and details of the rope application, and
operating conditions.
LAY:
This refers to the way the wires
in the strands, and the strands
in the rope are formed into the
completed rope.

The direction of rope lay does

not effect the breaking force
of a rope. However, the com-
bination of strand lay and
rope lay will greatly effect the
rope characteristic and this
factor must be taken into con-
sideration when choosing a rope.
ROPE CORE:
The type of rope core must be specified because of the
significant differences in properties of a wire rope core
and fibre core.

FIBRE OR SISAL CORE:

Sisalanna is the most common fibre
used in the manufacture of wire rope
cores.

I.W.R.C. OR STEEL CORE:

The primary function of the core is to provide
adequate support for the strands. The steel core, as
the name IWRC implies is actually a separate small
rope inside a larger rope.
SPECIAL CORES:
Other cores include nylon, plastic, paper
etc. One type, used for mine shafts for
communications, has an electrical
conductor embedded in the fibre.

STRAND CORE:
A single strand used as a core and
generally confined to the smaller ropes
as a substitute for the IWRC. The
strand core may or may not be of the
same cross section as the surrounding
strands.
REMEMBER ……Use the right sling for the
type of load to be lifted!
Selection of slings
Factors governing choice of sling

Load Mass – kg or tonnes

Type of load
Metal Plate
jjj Sheet
jj Rods
jj Pipe
kk Sections

Logs
Timber
Sawn timber
l
Plywood
l
Crates
Containers Drums
Cartons
Machinery Paper, textiles etc.

Length of sling Sling effective lengths

kk are measured from
ll bearing point to bearing
ll point.

See “Sling practice” in

Sling arrangement the sling section.

Mobile crane, Chain

Lifting equipment type block, Electric hoist etc.
ll
Exposure to chemicals,
Environment heat, moisture etc.
kk
Low headroom, painted,
Special conditions polished or special
surfaces.
Test certificates required.
 Effective length

Thimble Thimble

Mechanical splice
Reeving
Thimble
thimble

Thimble
Soft eye

Soft eye
Soft eye

Endless
PRE-USE INSPECTION OF WIRE ROPE SLINGS
eye
Soft

CHECK THAT THE SLING IS TAGGED WITH :

(A) S.W.L
(B) IDENTIFICATION NUMBER
(C) DATE STAMP
Ensure the S.W.L. is adequate for the
load to be lifted.
Ensure the ferule is free from crushing,
cracks or other deformities.
Wire rope around thimbles should be
carefully checked as it is often damaged
due to the sling being dragged over rough
surfaces.
eye
Soft
 EXAMINE THE ENTIRE LENGTH OF THE
SLING AND CHECK FOR :-

a) Broken wires f) Abrasion

b) Corrosion g) Heat damage

c) Wear h) Flattened portions

d) Kinks/Twisting i) Damaged Terminations

e) Core protrusion
 WIRE ROPE REPLACEMENT CRITERIA:

 IF THERE ARE BROKEN WIRES.

 IF THE WIRES HAVE BEEN CRUSHED.
 IF THERE IS CORROSION.
 IF THERE ARE BAD KINKS / TWISTING.
 IF WEAR EXCEEDS 1/3 OF THE ORIGINAL
DIAMETER.
 IF THERE IS CORE PROTRUSION ALONG THE
MAIN LENGTH.
 METHOD OF APPLYING WIRE ROPE GRIPS
TO WIRE ROPE
CORRECT INCORRECT
-6 diameters -6diameters – dead end Live end

Dead end
Live end

TYPES OF GRIPS

U-BOLT CLIPS FIST GRIP CLIPS

NUMBER OF GRIPS TO A TERMINAL
Nominal diameter of wire rope mm Minimum number of wire
rope grips
Up to and including 20 3
Over 20 up to and including 32 4
Over 32 up to and including 40 5
Sling angles are used when two or more slings are
used off a crane hook, and attached at different
points on the load to be lifted.
The stress imposed on a sling depends upon the angle
to the horizontal, formed by the legs lifting the loads.
When the sling legs are pulled together into a common
hook, each sling leg will have a load increase. This sling
leg load increase is often not realized by the person
hooking up the load.

It is always good practice,

within limits, to keep sling leg
angles as small as possible.
SLING
SLING ANGLES
ANGLES
Sling angles are used when two or more slings are used off a crane hook and
attached at different points on the load to be lifted.

The maximum angle at which any sling can be used is 120°.

The maximum recommended angle is 90°.

HOW TO CALCULATE SLING ANGLES:

30° 60°

2m 1m

1m
1m
Sling leg 2 m. Sling leg 1 m.
Sling point to sling Sling point to sling
point 1 m. point 1 m
HOW TO CALCULATE SLING ANGLES (Cont.)

90°
Sling leg 2m
Rise 1m 2m
Rise 1m

2m
Sling point to sling point

As the angle in slings increases, so the tension in the slings increases.

Angle % Factor
30° 3% increase in tension 1.93
45° 7% increase in tension 1.85
60° 15% increase in tension 1.73
90° 41% increase in tension 1.41
120° 100% increase in tension 1.0

As the tension increases in the sling so the sling’s capacities are reduced.
The best sling angle is 60° or less.
 SAFETY FACTORS OF SLINGS
Breaking force is the actual force required to pull rigging gear to
destruction.
The breaking force unit is the Kilo Newton (kN), this being the
force, which applied to a mass of one kilogram, produces an
acceleration of one metre per second per second (1 metre/sec²).
All Gravitational Forces should be calculated on
gravitational acceleration of 9.81 m/sec². For field
calculations a value of 10 m/sec² may be used,
i.e. the gravitational force produced by a mass of
five tonnes is approximately 5 x 10 or 50kN.

To obtain a Safe Working Load or Work Load

Limit, a safety factor is applied to the
Minimum Breaking force I.e. the minimum
breaking force divided by the safety factor =
Working Load Limit of a sling in a straight lift.
 To find the Working Load Limit:
Minimum Breaking Force ÷ Safety Factor = W.L.L.
RULE
RULE OF
OF THUMB:
THUMB:
The following method can determine the W.L.L. of a single sling in a
straight pull:
Fibre rope:
Diameter x diameter = W.L.L. (kg)
i.e 16 mm diameter fibre rope 16 x 16 = 256 kg W.L.L.
If the weight of the object is known and a sling size must be found,
then square the W.L.L.
i.e. weight is 256 kg √256 = 16 mm
a 16 mm diameter sling is required.

Flexible Steel Wire Rope

These slings and
Graded chain slings
gear must be
Synthetic flat webbing tagged or marked
with the W.L.L.
Synthetic round webbing
Shackles and all other lifting appliances
 To
To find
find the
the Minimum
Minimum Breaking
Breaking Force:
Force:

W.L.L. x Safety Factor = Minimum Breaking Force.

A Safety Factor is applied to protect personnel and
equipment.

Safety Factors:
• Fibre rope - slings 6

- lifting personnel 8

• Wire rope - slings 5

- lifting personnel 10

• Chain - slings 4

• Synthetic - slings 8

• Shackles - Grade L, M, P 6
S,L 5
 WIRE ROPE BREAKING STRENGTH FORMULAS
 Rule of Thumb Formula for Breaking Strength:
Diameter squared, multiplied by the breaking strength of 1 inch
fibre or wire core rope.
D2 x B.S. of 1 inch wire rope
D2 x 42 (fibre core – improved plow) Grade 110/120
D2 x 45 (wire core – improved plow)
D2 x 8 = (S.W.L.) in tonnes
Example; ½ inch x ½ inch x 8 = 8 ÷ 4 = 2 tonnes S.W.L.
1x1=1 2x2=4 1 x 8 = 8÷ 4 = 2 tonnes
Example; ¾ inch x ¾ inch x 8 = 9 x 8 ÷16 = 4½ tonnes
3x3=9 4 x 4 = 16 9 x 8 ÷16 = 4½ tonnes
Example; 2” x 2” x 8 = 4 x 8 = 32 tonnes
2 x 2 x 45 (breaking strength) = 180 ÷ 5 (safety factor) = 36
tonnes (wire core)
 Rule of Thumb Formula for Safe Working Load:
Safe Working Load = Breaking Strength
Safety Factor
The Rule of Thumb for S.W.L. is based on a safety factor of 5.
Example; 1 inch I.W.R.C. has a breaking strength of 45 tonnes
45 tonnes  5 (safety factor) = 9 tonnes (S.W.L.)

I.W.R.C = Independent Wire Rope Core

A.N.S.I = American National Standard Institute
E.O.T = Electric Overhead Travelling Crane
W.L.L. = Working Load Limit
Testing of wire sling Testing of two 24”, 5 sheave blocks
LOAD FACTORS
Riggers must know the load factors for each method of slinging
shown below.
Single sling
Load Factor Load Factor Load Factor =
=1 = 0.5 0.75

Direct load Rectangular Round

load load

Basket hitch
Single Sling Vertical Legs Include Angle Between Legs

Load 30° 1.03 30° 0.97

Factor = 2 60° 1.73 60°
90° 1.41 0.87 90°
120° 0.70
Load
1.00 120° 0.50
Factor = 1
Round Rectangular Round Rectangular
load load load load

Endless sling
or grommet Multiple slings
30° 1.93
45° 1.38
45° 1.85
60°
Load 60° 1.73
1.30
Factor =2 90° 1.41
90° 1.06
120°
120°
1.00
0.75
Basket hitch
round load
Direct load Direct load
 LOAD FACTORS AND SLINGS
To calculate the maximum weight of a load that can be lifted, multiply
the W.L.L. of the sling(s) by the angle factor and by the reeve factor.
Formula
Maximum load = W.L.L. (of sling) x angle factor x reeve factor
ie Sling SWL is 8 Tonne
Angle is 60°
Factor 1.73 60° 8t
Reeve factor 0.5
Max. load = 8 x 1.73 x 0.5 =
?T
6.92 Tonnes.
6.9 Tonnes is the maximum weight that can be lifted.
To calculate the WLL of a sling needed to lift a load, divide the load by the
Angle Factor and divide by the Reeve Factor
Formula:

W.L.L. = weight ÷ Angle Factor ÷ 1

Weight 4 Tonnes ?
Angle is 60°, Factor is 1.73 60°
Reeve Factor = 0.5
S.W.L. = 4 ÷ 1;73 ÷ 0.5 = 4.62 Tonnes 4t

Therefore a sling with a capacity greater than 4.62 Tonne is needed.

W.L.L. = weight ÷ Angle Factor ÷ Reeve Factor
Weight is 20 Tonnes
Angle is 60°, Factor is 60° ?
1.73 Reeve Factor is
0.75 W.L.L. = 20 ÷
20 t
1.73 ÷ 0.75
= 15.41 Tonnes
Therefore use a sling with a capacity greater than 15.41 Tonnes.
 WINCHES
WINCHES SELECTED FOR A JOB SHOULD BE;-

• IN GOOD MECHANICAL
CONDITION.
• PROPERLY ANCHORED IN
POSITION.
• WINCHES CAPACITY
(S.W.L.).
• THE FITTED F.S.W.R.
WIRE ROPE SPOOLING
CORRECT SPOOLING OF ROPES (attaching point)

OVERWIND UNDERWIND
LEFT TO RIGHT RIGHT TO LEFT
USE RIGHT LAY ROPE USE RIGHT LAY
ROPE

OVERWIND UNDERWIND
RIGHT TO LEFT LEFT TO RIGHT
USE LEFT LAY ROPE USE LEFT LAY ROPE
CORRECT METHOD OF TRANSFERRING NEW
WIRE ROPE TO AN OPERATING DRUM
Reel

Drum

Reel
Drum
CHAIN SLING ASSEMBLIES

HOOK &
SHORTENING
CLAW

RING

SHACKLES
THE S.W.L. OF A LIFTING CHAIN IS ONLY
AS GREAT AS THE PART WITH THE
LOWEST S.W.L.
FOR EXAMPLE IF THE S.W.L. OF:-
> THE HOOK IS 2 TONNES
> THE SHACKLES IS 2 TONNES
> THE RING IS 1 TONNE
> THE CHAIN IS 2 TONNES
THEN THE S.W.L OF THE CHAIN
SLING IS 1 TONNE.
Do not use a chain to lift if it does not
have a manufacturer’s tag that gives
details of the S.W.L.
 RULE OF THUMB FORMULA TO DETERMINE
THE S.W.L OF A CHAIN:
THE SWL OF A CHAIN IS DETERMINED BY THE GRADE.

To calculate the SWL of lifting chain in kilograms,

multiply the diameter (D) in millimeters (mm) squared by
the grade (G) by 0.3.

Formula SWL (kgs) = D (mm2) x G

x 0.3
For example:-
Chain diameter-10mm Chain grade (T) i.e. grade (80)
SWL = D2(mm) x G x 0.3
= D(mm) x D(mm) x G x 0.3
= 10 x 10 x 80 x 0.3
= 2400 kgs.
SWL (T) = 2.4 tonnes
IDENTIFICATION OF CHAIN GRADES

TYPE GRADE IDENTIFICATION

Mild steel 30 Marked with 3

Normalised 40 Marked with 4

Tempered 40 Marked with 04

Alloy steel 60 Marked with 06

Alloy steel 75 Marked with 75

Higher alloy chain 80 Marked with 8 or

CM, A, T, HA, S
 SOME TYPES OF CHAINS
SHORT LINK CHAIN (UN-CALIBRATED)
CALIBRATED CHAIN
STUD LINK CHAIN
BUSH ROLLER CHAIN

REMEMBER……
Proof coil chain resembles lifting chain. It can
be identified by the lack of any grade number
stamped on it. Proof coil chain is not suitable
for industrial lifting purposes.
SHORT LINK CHAIN (UN-CALIBRATED):
Short link chain is made in short links to provide
greater strength. The link length will not exceed 5
times the diameter of the link material long nor 3.5
times the diameter width.
CALIBRATED:
Pitched short link chain has the link sides parallel, to
prevent stretch under load and is pitched so that the
links are a constant and accurate length. Pitched or
calibrated chain is principally used on chain blocks. The
outside dimensions of the links of calibrated chain are
as follow:
>length will not exceed 6 times the diameter of the
material used.
>width will not exceed 3.5 times the diameter of the
material used.
STUD LINK CHAIN:
Stud link chain has a stud across the centre of each
link. It is unsuitable for general lifting purposes and is
used mostly for marine purposes.

BUSH ROLLER CHAIN:

Bush roller chains are parallel or flat chains, the types
as seen on the drive sprockets of cycles. Because of
their inability to bend sideways they cannot be used as
load chains to suspend loads except where the loads run
in guides.
SAFE USE OF A CHAIN SLING
 DO NOT USE A CHAIN TO LIFT IF IT DOES NOT HAVE A
TAG OR S.W.L. STAMPED ON IT.
 DETERMINE THE EFFECTIVE LENGTH OF THE SLING TO
BE WITHIN THAT RANGE OF SLING ANGLES.
 INSPECT THE CHAIN AND FITTING IDENTIFICATION
MARKING TO ENSURE THE SLING IS CORRECTLY
TAGGED FOR ITS APPLICATION.
 ENSURE THE LOAD IS EVENLY DISTRIBUTED ON ALL
SLING LEGS.
 ENSURE THAT THE CHAIN IS FREE OF TWISTS AND IS
PROTECTED FROM ANY SHARP CORNERS ON THE
LOAD.
 ADVICE FOR SAFE USE OF LIFTING
CHAIN ASSEMBLIES
1. CHECK THE CONDITION OF THE SLINGS BEFORE EACH
LOAD.
2. CHECK THAT THE CHAIN LEGS ARE NOT TWISTED OR
KNOTTED.
3. CHECK THAT THE LOAD IS IN THE CENTRE OF THE
HOOK AND NOT ON THE TIP.
4. DO NOT REPAIR ANY CHAINS OR FITTINGS YOURSELF.
5. DO NOT LOAD WITH CONVERGENCE ANGLE OVER 120
DEGREES.
6. DO NOT SUBMIT THE CHAIN TO HEAT TREATMENT.
 REMEMBER….. NEVER…..
 SHORTEN A CHAIN BY TWISTING OR KNOTTING.
 SHORTEN A CHAIN BY USING NUTS AND BOLTS.
 WRAP A CHAIN AROUND SHARP CORNERS.
 HAMMER A CHAIN TO STRAIGHTEN THE LINKS OR TO
FORCE THE LINKS INTO POSITION.
 USE THE TIP OF A HOOK TO CARRY A LOAD.
 RE-WELD ALLOY STEEL CHAIN LINKS. THEY MUST BE
REPLACED BY THE MANUFACTURER.
 USE HEAT TREATED ALLOY STEEL CHAINS.
Chain safety Never
overload

Balance
all loads

Avoid
sudden
jerks
when
lowering Use pads
& lifting Don’t Centre load around sharp
Free all drop load on hook corners
twists, on chain
knots or
kinks
 CHAIN SLING INSPECTION
1. CLEAN THE CHAIN BEFORE INSPECTION & INSPECT
BEFORE USE.
2. INSPECT EACH LINK FOR SIGNS OF WEAR, TWISTING
STRETCHING, NICKS OR GOUGING.
3. MEASURE ALL LINKS FOR DEGREE OF WEAR.
4. MAX. ALLOWABLE CHAIN WEAR IS 10%.
5. MAX. INCREASE IN HOOK OPENING IS 5% OF THE
ORIGINAL THROAT OPENING.
6. INSPECT UPPER & LOWER TERMINAL LINKS AND
HOOKS FOR SIGN OF WEAR AT THEIR LOAD BEARING
POINTS AND FOR ANY SIGNS OF DISTORTION.
REMEMBER…….WITHDRAW ANY CHAINS FROM
SERVICE IF IT HAS DEFECTS.
 CHAIN SLINGS INSPECTION

Links tend to
close up and
stretch

New link
Stretched link

Re-measure
Measure
the same
length of
number of
10 – 20
links
links
Extreme wear at bearing
surfaces

When new-gauge a Re-measure the same section after use to

length of the chain determine the amount of stretch

Wear
Twisted
Bend Bend link

Measure the
remaining material
Link wear – using calipers, measure the reduced diameter at the Elongated, stretched, bent or twisted links – compare a length
point of maximum wear. Replace the chain if the reduction is of chain with the same number of links as a new chain. If
more than 10% stretch exceeds 3%, replace the chain
CHAIN BLOCKS,
COME ALONGS &
TIRFORS
THESE DEVICES ARE VERY IMPORTANT
TOOLS FOR RIGGING DUTIES WHERE A
CRANE CANNOT BE USED. WHEN THEY
ARE USED IN AN APPROPRIATE MANNER
THEY ARE A VALUABLE ASSET.

OVERLOADING THESE
DEVICES IS VERY
DANGEROUS
…CHECK ALL HOISTS BEFORE USE

…IF IT TAKES TWO ……

IT’S
CHAIN BLOCKS, COME ALONGS &
TIRFORS
THESE DEVICES ARE LIGHT AND
AN EFFECTIVE METHOD OF
LIFTING AND PULLING A LOAD.
THEY ARE ALSO SOME OF THE
MOST ABUSED PIECES OF
EQUIPMENT USED; GENERALLY
FROM SEVERE OVERLOADING.
THESE EQUIPMENTS ARE
FACTORY TESTED AT 150% OF
THEIR CAPACITY.THE AVERAGE
EQUIPMENT TAKES LESS THAN
100 lbs. OF PULL ON THE LEVER
OR CHAINS TO LIFT THE RATED
LOAD,
THEREFORE IF TWO AVERAGE
SIZED WORKERS ARE
HANGING OFF THE HANDLE
OR CHAIN THEY COULD BE
TRYING TO LIFT A LOAD 3 OR
4 TIMES HEAVIER THAN
WHAT THE HOIST IS RATED
FOR AND BEYOND ITS
BUILT-IN SAFETY FACTOR.
GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR THEIR SAFE USE
ARE LISTED BELOW:
 CHECK THE HOIST BEFORE USE AND SERVICE
REGULARLY.
 THE HOIST MUST BE MARKED WITH A SWL
AND COLOUR CODED.
 THE ANCHOR POINT MUST BE ABLE TO HOLD
TWICE THE SWL OF THE OBJECT BEING
PULLED/RAISED.
 ENSURE THAT THE CHAINS/WIRES ON THE
HOIST ARE NOT CORRODED OR WORN AND
THE SHEAVES ARE RUNNING FREELY.
 THE BRAKES ARE IN GOOD CONDITION AND
ENSURE THE LOAD IS DIRECTLY UNDER THE
HOIST.
 INSPECTION OF CHAIN BLOCKS, COME
ALONGS & TIRFORS
1. CHECK THAT THE CHAINS / WIRES ARE NOT CORRODED
/ PITTED.
2. A TWISTED CHAIN IS MORE COMMON IN MULTI-FALL
HOISTS AND IS CAUSED BY THE BOTTOM BLOCK
PASSING THROUGH THE CHAIN FALLS.
3. CHECK THAT ALL PARTS OF THE EQUIPMENT IS FREE
OF WEAR, STRETCHING, DISTORTIONS AND CUTS OR
GOUGES.
4. ENSURE THAT A DEAD-END STOP IS FITTED ON
PULLIFTS OR CHAINS AND IS IN A GOOD CONDITION.
5. CHECK THAT HOOKS ARE SECURE, FREE FROM WEAR
OR DISTORTIONS AND HAVE SAFETY CATCHES FITTED.
ENSURE HOOKS SWIVEL TOP / BOTTOM.
 NEVER USE AN EXTENSION OVERLOADING YOUR HOIST CAN
PIPE ON LEVER HOISTS…… LEAD TO ROPE FAILURE………

….IT COULD MAKE YOU UNPOPULAR ……WHICH CAN LEAD TO

WITH YOUR SUPERVISOR! INDIGESTION……..
 WITH TOGGLE BLOCK
SHACKLE (TAIL BLOCK
WITH HOOK
 SNATCH BLOCKS

SNATCH BLOCKS ARE USED TO CHANGE THE

DIRECTION OF A WIRE ROPE WITHOUT HAVING
TO THREAD THE WIRE ROPE THROUGH THE BLOCK.
THE STRESS ON THE SNATCH BLOCK VARIES
WITH THE ANGLE BETWEEN THE LEAD AND LOAD
LINES.
WHEN BOTH THE LEAD AND LOAD LINES ARE
PARALLEL, THE STRESS ON THE BLOCK HOOK IS
DOUBLE THE WEIGHT.
 INSPECTION OF SNATCH BLOCKS
• CHECK THE SNATCH BLOCK IS MARKED WITH SWL.
• INSPECT SHEAVES FOR CRACKS, DISTORTIONS,
GOUGES AND WEAR IN THE ROPE GROOVE.
• INSPECT BEARING / BUSHES FOR WEAR.
• CHECK SPIN SHEAVES TO ENSURE SMOOTH
OPERATIONS.
• INSPECT FITTINGS i.e. SHACKLES, SWIVELS, HOOK
AND SIDE PLATES FOR WEAR, STRETCH, CRACKING
OR CORROSION.
 SHEAVES
WIRE ROPE MANUFACTURERS INDICATE THAT THE
EFFICIENCY, OR WIRE ROPE STRENGTH DECREASES
AS IT PASSES OVER SHEAVES.
ANY CALCULATIONS WITH WIRE ROPES PASSING
OVER A SHEAVE SHOULD BE REDUCED BY A
MINIMUM OF 5%.
THE SMALLER THE SHEAVE, THE HIGHER THE
INEFFICIENCY.
 SAFE USE OF SHEAVES
 ENSURE THE CORRECT TYPE OF SHEAVES ARE TO BE
USED FOR THE JOB.
 ENSURE IT IS MARKED WITH MANUFACTURER’S
IDENTIFICATION.
 NOMINAL SIZE OF ROPE. ( The correct type/size of wire
and sheaves will prevent any damages to both).
 ROPE MATERIAL, (i.e fibre ropes or wire ropes) MUST BE
KNOWN BEFORE THE SHEAVES ARE USED.
 ENSURE THE SHEAVES ARE MARKED WITH WLL
(Working Load Limit).
ALWAYS USE THE RIGHT TYPE / SIZE
OF SHEAVE FOR THE RIGHT ROPE
MATERIAL / SIZE.
 SHACKLES
THERE ARE TWO TYPES OF SHACKLES NORMALLY
IN USE IN THE OIL & GAS INDUSTRY AND THEY
ARE AVAILABLE WITH SCREW PIN OR NUT AND
BOLT WITH SAFETY PIN.

BOW DEE

WHEN SELECTING THE BOW OR DEE TYPE, THE

NUMBER OF COMPONENTS BEING USED MUST BE
TAKEN INTO CONSIDERATION.
ALL SHACKLES USED FOR LIFTING MUST BE
STAMPED WITH THE S.W.L.
THE BODY OF EACH SHACKLE SHALL BE
MARKED WITH THE FOLLOWING
INFORMATION:
• MANUFACTURER’S IDENTIFICATION.
• QUALITY OR GRADE OF THE SHACKLE.
• LIFTING CAPACITY IN TONNES AS W.L.L.
OR S.W.L.
• USE A SHACKLE WITHOUT THE S.W.L.
STAMPED ON IT.
• USE A BOLT AND NUT IN PLACE OF THE
PROPER PIN.
• USE A SHACKLE THAT IS BENT, DEFORMED OR
DAMAGED.
• USE A SHACKLE THAT IS WORN IN THE
CROWN OR PIN BY MORE THAN 10%.
• USE A SCREW SHACKLE WHERE THE PIN CAN
UNSCREW AND ROLL UNDER THE LOAD.
• USE A SHACKLE THAT IS NOT COLOUR CODED.
VISUAL CHECKS BEFORE USE:
 CHECK FOR WEAR.
 CHECK FOR STRAIGHTNESS OF THE PIN.
 CHECK THAT THE PIN IS ALWAYS SEATED
PROPERLY.
 CHECK THAT THE LEGS OF THE SHACKLE
ARE NOT OPENING UP.
 CHECK THAT THE SHACKLE BODY AND PIN
ARE NOT CORRODED.
 CHECK THAT THE SHACKLE IS COLOUR
CODED.
SEVERAL TYPES OF ABUSE CAN DAMAGE
SHACKLES, THEY ARE;
a) OVERLOADING.
b) SUBSTITUTING A BOLT
FOR A SHACKLE PIN.

INSPECTION:

Check for wear.

Check for wear and straightness of the pin.

Check that the pin is always seated.

Check that the shackle is not opening up.
 EYEBOLTS
THERE ARE COLLARED AND UNCOLLARED
EYEBOLTS. DO NOT USE UNCOLLARED EYEBOLTS
FOR ANY LIFTS OTHER THAN VERTICAL LIFTS,
BECAUSE THEY CAN BREAK OFF WHEN SIDE
STRAIN IS APPLIED.
IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT ONLY COLLARED
EYEBOLTS ARE USED FOR LIFTING.

COLLARED VERTICAL
EYEBOLT LIFT
 CORRECT
WHEN LIFTING WITH A
PAIR OF EYEBOLTS
ALWAYS USE A TWO
LEGGED SLING. Correct Correct

NEVER USE AN EYEBOLT Load Load

IF YOU ARE NOT SURE

OF ITS CAPABILITIES.
INCORRECT
DO NOT USE A SLING Incorrect Incorrect

IN A BASKET
FORMATION AS THIS
CAN DRASTICALLY
OVERLOAD THE Load Load

EYEBOLTS AND LEAD TO

FAILURE.
 HOOKS
 All hooks should be equipped with safety latches.
 Ensure the safety latch opens and closes properly.
 Ensure the hook is in a good condition.
 Ensure the swivel (if fitted) is working.
 Ensure the S.W.L. and W.L.L. is stamped on the hook.
 Ensure the sling is seated properly and not at the point of the
hook.
 Ensure the hook is not cracked or distorted in any way.
 Ensure the safety latch is not broken.

INSPECT HOOKS REGULARLY

 HOOK LOADING
THE SWL IS REDUCED IF THE LOAD IS APPLIED
ANYWHERE BETWEEN THE SADDLE AND THE TIP
OF THE HOOK.

BALANCED 1/4 OFF 1/4 POINT

LOAD OFF CENTER CENTER OFF CENTER LOADING

LOAD LOAD LOAD LOAD LOAD

CAN CARRY CAN CARRY CAN CARRY CAN CARRY CAN CARRY
100% OF APPROX. 86% APPROX. 80% APPROX. 70% APPROX. 40%
RATED LOAD OF RATED OF RATED OF RATED OF RATED
LOAD LOAD LOAD LOAD
 INSPECTION OF HOOKS

 CHECK THE HOOK IS MARKED WITH:

a) S.W.L.
b) IDENTIFICATION NO.
c) DATE STAMP
 INSPECT FOR WEAR AND DISTORTION.
 INSPECT THE LATCH, ENSURE THAT
THE CATCH AND LATCH OPEN AND
CLOSE CORRECTLY.
 INSPECT FOR HEAT OR CHEMICAL
DAMAGE.
 DO NOT WELD HOOKS.
REMEMBER…. THE SAFETY OF THE
LOAD DEPENDS ON THE FITNESS OF
YOUR HOOK.
RIGGING SCREWS & TURNBUCKLES

a) Turnbuckle assembly with round eyes

b) Turnbuckle assembly with elongated eyes

c) Turnbuckle assembly with clevises

 RIGGING
RIGGING SCREWS/TURNBUCKLES
SCREWS/TURNBUCKLES
 Rigging screw / turnbuckles are devices for tensioning or
fine length adjustment of Flexible Steel Wire Ropes.
 They have a limited application and should be used with
great care for there are many inherent dangers
associated with their use.
 The most common use of turnbuckles is for leveling
loads whereby a load needs to be placed into position,
perfectly level.
 This is done by having one sling on one side and a
shorter sling attached to a turnbuckle on the other side,
both attached to the load.

Turnbuckle
th
l en g
t for

30° 45°
en
stm
Adju

Center of gravity
 SAFE
SAFE USE
USE OF
OF RIGGING
RIGGING SCREWS
SCREWS //
TURNBUCKLES
TURNBUCKLES
ENSURE THAT THE TURNBUCKLE HAVE THE SWL
STAMPED ON IT.
ENSURE THAT THE THREADED SHANK ALWAYS
PROTRUDE INTO THE BODY TO ENSURE THAT THE
LOAD IS BORNE OVER THE CORRECT LENGTH OF
THE THREADED SHANK.
WHERE A TURNBUCKLE IS USED IN A VIBRATING
AREA, LOCK THE END FITTINGS TO THE FRAME
TO PREVENT UNSCREWING.
LOCKING CAN BE DONE BY WIRING THE EYE OR
JAW TO THE BODY.
 INSPECTION
INSPECTION OF
OF TURNBUCKLES
TURNBUCKLES
o MAKE SURE THAT THE TURNBUCKLE IS MARKED WITH
THE S.W.L.
o LOOK THAT THE THREAD IS NOT CORRODED, WORN,
STRETCHED OR THERE IS IMPACT DAMAGE.
o ENSURE THAT THE CLEVIS PIN AND PIN HOUSES ARE
FREE FROM WEAR, CORROSION AND DISTORTION.
o LOOK IF THE EYES/HOOKS/JAWS ARE FREE FROM WEAR,
DISTORTION, STRETCHING OR CORROSION.
o MAKE SURE THAT THE THREAD IS SUITABLY
LUBRICATED AND THE BODY IS NOT DISTORTED.
 SLINGING TECHNIQUES

Once all slings have been checked as stated at the beginning

of this session we are now ready to sling a load.

Know the weight of the load being slung.

Never sling different sizes of tubes together.
Always make sure that the load has a tagline
fitted.
Ensure the back of the hooks are towards the
hoist and the hooks are pointing outwards.
Always make sure that the crane hook is central over
the load to prevent any unnecessary swing.
Slings must be protected from sharp edges by using
proper packing.
All loose material must be removed from the top of the
load before lifting commences.
If anything does go wrong with the lift, the banks man
should ensure he has an escape route and would not
be trapped by the load.
 CONTAINERS
The supply and handling of materials to and
from offshore locations is a particularly
hazardous activity.
Metal Box type containers are designed to
carry materials and equipment safely and
efficiently. However, the final element in the
design is the user. If the container is used
incorrectly, it can be transformed from a safe
means of carrying cargo to a danger to all
concerned.

ALL CONTAINERS SHALL BE FITTED WITH A PLATE

WITH INFORMATION REGARDING THE STATUS OF
THE CONTAINER.
 CONTAINERS-cont..
The plate will be marked permanently with the
following information.
UNIT’S UNIQUE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER.
NAME OF THE CONTAINER OWNER.
UNIT TARE WEIGHT & MAX. GROSS WEIGHT.
SWL / PAYLOAD.
DATE OF MANUFACTURE.
LAST VISUAL INSPECTION/PROOF LOAD TEST DATE.
Fifth leg
The information on the
plate will be deemed to be
evidence of the existence
of a valid test certification
documents bearing
identical information. Tag line
THE FOLLOWING SAFETY CHECKS SHOULD BE
MADE BEFORE A CONTAINER IS USED:

 CHECK that there is an up-to-date inspection plate.

 CHECK that there is no visible damage which could
cause problems, e.g. cracked welds, jagged edges, etc.

 CHECK that the lifting bridle is in a good condition

and shackles are secured properly.
 CHECK that the doors will open and close properly.
 Make sure that the container is loaded properly.
(Remember someone at the other end has to empty the
container).

 Lashing points inside the container must be used to

secure the load.

 Make sure there is nothing on top of the container

before lifting commenceS.
 CRANE INTRODUCTION:

A crane is described as a piece of equipment

designed to lift, transport and land a load.
There are no limits to the design of hoisting
equipment built today.

Many things must be considered before deciding

on the type and size of crane that is suitable
for a specific job.
These include:
The dimension, weight, and lift radius of the
heaviest and largest load.

The maximum lift height and number of lifts

to be made.

The type of lifting, if using a mobile crane,

the type of carrier required. This will
depend on the location of the lift.
 CRANE TYPES
 EOT- Electric Overhead Traveling Cranes
 GANTRY CRANE
 CRAWLER CRANE
 CARRIER MOUNTED CRANE
 CRANE IDENTIFICATION
CRANE IDENTIFICATION
All cranes should have identification plates on all
components, such as:
ø The carrier
ø The house
ø The outriggers
ø The counterweights
ø The jib and boom sections
The identification tag will list the manufacturer’s
name, machine model number, serial number and
the weight of the unit.
Components used on the original machine must be
of identical models of the same manufacturer.
 LIFT PLANNING
Be thoroughly prepared before making a lift with
a crane. Crane capacities
are based on three factors:
• Machine weight
• Stability STABILITY

• Strength of components
STRENGTH

The main factors which OF

MATERIAL

affect the lifting of a load WEIGHT

are:
• The weight of the load, which includes the weight
of the load block, slings and handling devices.
• The shape of the load.
• The height to which the load is to be raised.
• The final position when raised.
 LIFT PLANNING (cont’d)
The load radius is the horizontal distance
measured from the rotation centre of the crane
(mounting pin) to the load hook, while the boom
is under load.
The load radius will increase
when the load is lifted off the
ground, due to deflection of
the boom and the machine
and pendant stretch. The
deflection is even greater
when the crane is on rubber,
because of tyre deflection, Unloaded radius
Loaded radius

see picture.
On critical lifts, the radius should be measured
again after the load is raised slightly. If the
actual load radius falls between the values
listed in the load chart, use the next longer
radius listed in the load chart.

Note: It
Note: It is
is extremely
extremely important
important toto know
know the
the
difference between
difference between thethe rated
rated capacity
capacity of
of mobile
mobile
cranes in
cranes in regards
regards toto strength
strength and
and stability.
stability.
Strength means
Strength means that
that aa structural
structural component
component of of
the crane
the crane will
will break
break when
when overloaded.
overloaded. Stability
Stability
means the
means the crane
crane will
will tip
tip over
over when
when overloaded.
overloaded.
Determine the boom capacity limitations. These include
the length of the boom and the capacity at different radii.
The picture shows a large dimension load and its limited
lift height due to a steep boom angle.
To lift the load higher , the boom angle must be lowered.
The crane now has decreased capacity and the stresses
imposed on the crane components are increased.

LOAD SIZE
AND LIFT
HEIGHT
MAY AFFECT
THE
BOOM ANGLE

H2
H1
 CRANE FAILURE POINTS
Structural failure:
A structural failure does not necessarily mean an immediate
fracture.
Cranes, which were overloaded on previous lifts, have
suffered from sudden structural failure on normal, safe lifts.
Some of the more common failure points are shown in the
pictures below.
JIB FAILS

HOIST
LINE
FAILS
PENDANT
BOOM
BREAKS
BENDS

BOOM COLLAPSES
TURRET
GANTRY FAILS
UPPER WORKS COLLAPSES BOOM
COME OFF CYLINDERS
FAIL
TRACK ON CARRIER STRUCTURAL FAILURE FROM
PADS FAIL FRAME BENDS OVERLOADING CAN OCCUR
OUTRIGGER BEAM ANYWHERE
OR PAD FAILS
 BOOM
BOOM STRENGTH
STRENGTH // WEAKNESS
WEAKNESS
A crane boom is at its When a conventional lattice
strongest position in a boom (or jib) is lowered, it
near vertical lift. The has increased sag with more
compression on the boom pull on the supporting
does not cause it to bend pendant lines. The capacity
until it is at a lower angle. is also lowered considerably.
See picture below. See picture below.
LOAD
LOAD CAPACITY
SOME
REDUCED PRINCIPLE
PULL
APPLIED TO
LOAD BOOMS

MORE
STRONG IF
PULL
STRAIGHT LITTLE
SAG OR
BEND SAG

MOST
SOME SAG
FAILS
PULL
SUDDENLY

HIGHEST SAG
FROM OWN WEIGHT
Articulating quad hook assembly with double 6000 ton load tackle with in-line sheave
acting movement in both vertical planes for construction and bottom mounted swivel roller
adjusting to the load centre of gravity and bearing for 360° rotation at full load.
external motions.
6600 ton ABS certification lift rotated 45° off the port side
Riggers communicate by two-way radio.

Hand signals may also be used when the rigger

is in sight of the driver of the crane.
RADIO DIRECTIONS FOR CRANE DRIVERS:
A rigger must give crane drivers clear verbal
signals when directing crane movements. The
noise of the crane motor and the distortion over
the radio can make it difficult for the crane
driver to hear directions.
The following are the standard directions for
crane drivers from riggers:
Hook movement “Hook up” and
“Hook down”
Boom movement “Boom up” and
“Boom down”
“Boom extend” and
“Boom retract”
Slewing “Slew left” and
“Slew right”
OK to raise “All clear”
Do not move “Stop”
Speak clearly and say the name of the part of the crane
to be moved first – then the direction of the movement.
HAND SIGNALS

STOP: Arm extended, palm down. DOG EVERYTHING: Clasp hands in MOVE SLOWLY: Use one hand to
Move hand right and left. front of body. give any motion signal and place other
hand motionless in front of hand
giving the motion signal.

HOIST: With forearm vertical, LOWER: With arm extended USE MAIN HOIST: Tap fist on head,
Forefinger pointing up, move hand in Downward, forefinger pointing down, then use regular signals.
small horizontal circles. move hand in small horizontal circles
USE WHIPLINE. (Auxiliary RAISE BOOM. Arm extended, LOWER BOOM: Arm extended,
hoist). Tap elbow with one hand fingers closed, thumb pointing fingers closed, thumb pointing
then use regular signals. upward. downward.

SWING: Arm extended, point RAISE THE BOOM AND LOWER LOWER THE BOOM AND
with finger in direction of THE LOAD: With arm extended RAISE THE LOAD: With arm
swing of boom. thumb pointing up. Flex fingers in extended, thumb pointing down,
and out as long as load movement is flex fingers in and out as long as
required. load movement is desired.
TRAVEL: (Rail mount or EXTENDED BOOM: (telescoping RETRACT BOOM:
trolley). Arm extended booms). Both fists in front of body (Telescoping booms). Both fists
forward, hand open & slightly with thumbs pointing outward. in front of body with thumbs
raised, making pushing motion pointing toward each other.
in direction of travel.

TRAVEL: (Both tracks). Use both TRAVEL: (One track). Lock the
fists in front of body, making track on side indicated by raised
circular motion about each other, fist. Travel opposite track in
indicating directions of travel, direction indicated by circular
forward & backward (for crawler motion of other fist, rotated
cranes only). vertically in front of body (for
crawler cranes only).
The unloading of supply vessels and
backloading of materials from
Offshore Installations:
The unloading and backloading of
materials in the oil industry is a
particularly hazardous operation and the
following points should be adhered to by
the crane operator, banksmen and deck
crews onboard all installations, drill rigs
and supply vessels.
 Maintain good communications and team
work between the crane operator,
banksmen and deck crews.
 Banksmen and deck crews must ensure
that all loads are properly secured and
slung before hooking or signalling the
lift.
 Beware of how the state of the sea and
wind could effect the lift.
 During offloading, the banksman / deck
crew must signal the crane operator that
the load is ready to be lifted.
 During backloading, the banksman / deck
crew must signal the final location of
the load.
 The crane operator should lift and lower
loads over open sea to the extent that
is practical. If necessary a banksman
should assist directing the load.
 Whenever practical, during offloading of
vessels, the crane operator should slew
loads clear off the vessel once the load
is clear off other deck loads or the
vessel’s gunwales (sides).
 Beware of the crane’s (pendant line)
block / hook once a load is released.
This is very important on the deck of a
vessel.
 Unloading or backloading must never
take place if the crane is out of radius.
 Crane operators should only lift on the
up swell. Lifting on the down swell can
shockload a crane and is common cause
of crane / boom failures.
The state of the swell of the sea and the
timing of the crane operator are very
important. The crane operator should only
lift the load when the vessel is coming up
on the swell and not down. The deck crew
can help the operator here by giving the
signal at the right moment.
Bad judgment by the crane operator can
have catastrophic results.
Poor communications, poor timing of lifts
and improper slinging practices are all
common causes of lifting accidents.
 Job Safety Analysis
Definition:
A technique which identifies all accident
prevention appopriate to a particular
job or area of work activities and the
behavioral factor which most
significantly influence whether or not
these measures are taken. The approach
is both diagnostic and discriptive.
 JOB SAFETY ANALYSIS
Objective:
The objective is to identify the hazards on each
major and critical step of the job and to identify
the precautions needed to be taken against
each step.
The basic steps of Job Safety Analysis are:
 Define the jobs / tasks.
 Define the appropriate individuals or group to
develop a JSA.
 Break down the job / task into logical
sequential steps to identify the work procedure
required for the job.
 Identify all hazards associated with each step.
 Identify methods to control each identified
hazard.
 Job Safety Analysis Worksheet
Title of Job / operation ……………………………………………………………………… Date ……………………………………. Permit No. …………………………
User Name ………………………………................. Position ……………………………………….. User Supervisor …………………………………….......................
NOTE: WE HAVE DISCUSSED BELOW HAZARDS AND WILL TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTIONS TO PREVENT / MINIMISE THESE HAZARDS

Sequence Job Steps Potential Hazards Recommended Safe Job Procedures

Sites / Tools / Equipment to be worked

EXPERIENCE (Circle as appropriate)

o Have you done this job before : YES / NO ○ Are you knowledgeable with the job to be performed : YES / NO
o Have you referred to technical dwg : YES / NO ○ Is supervision / experienced assistance required : YES / NO

POTENTIAL HAZARDS (Tick as appropriate)

o Slippery floor ○ Swinging object ○ Falling object ○ Radioactive handling ○ Escape route ○ Sharp object
o Valve isolation ○ Overhead work ○ Congested area ○ Gases- H4C/C2/H2S ○ Pinch / trap ○ Environment spill
o Falling ○ Blocked drains ○ Heavy load ○ Shock/Electricity/Static ○ Trap pressure ○ Back injury hazard
o Hammer strikes ○ others close by ○ Grating opening ○ Barricades/sign erected ○ Secure ladder ○ Hose connection
o Power tools hazards ○ Burn (heat/Chem) ○ Spark/hot slag ○ Guard rotating equipt. ○ Height ○ Windy
 FINALLY!
WHERE LIFTING APPLIANCES AND
LIFTING GEAR ARE CONCERNED
THINK SAFETY AND BE SAFE AT
ALL TIMES!
THANK YOU

FOR YOUR

ATTENTION