Lifting Operations, Equipment and Accessories Policy

Introduction

The result of failure in use, or misuse, of this type of equipment can lead to serious injuries or death, not only to users but also to those in the vicinity of lifting operations.

Lifting equipment includes equipment used for carrying persons, and lifting accessories are such items as chains, strops, slings, ropes and "D" shackles.

It is our policy to:

• Provide lifting equipment and lifting accessories that are suitable for the lifting operation on which they are to be used.
• Uniquely identify each accessory and item of lifting equipment, and maintain a register, and mark equipment to show it can be used for lifting persons.
• Install lifting equipment in such a way as to reduce the risk of the equipment or load striking a person.
• Ensure all lifting equipment and accessories are marked to indicate their safe working load and provide any other marking appropriate to the configuration of use and for reasons of health and safety.
• Subject all items of lifting equipment and lifting accessories to thorough examinations by a competent person at intervals required by the examination scheme and where exceptional circumstances could jeopardise safety.
• Ensure that, prior to putting into use, we have evidence that all items of lifting equipment and lifting accessories are thoroughly examined by a competent person.
• Store equipment and accessories in such a way as to prevent damage or degradation.
• Keep all records of thorough examinations, tests, inspections and defect reports throughout the lifetime of the lifting equipment and in the case of lifting accessories for 2 years.
• Carry out risk assessments on all lifting operations and take action on their findings.
• Ensure that all lifting operations are properly planned by a competent person, are supervised and carried out in a safe manner.
• Provide suitable training for all users of lifting equipment and those involved in lifting operations.
• Take out of use and segregate any dangerous or faulty equipment or accessory until the item is repaired, tested and returned to service, or the item is rendered unusable and disposed of.