Safe operating procedures and load control
This domain tests whether the operator can keep the hoist within its rated load, distribute the load safely, and refuse unsafe trips. Load control is about the payload actually in the cage, not what the paperwork says was planned.
Rated load and distribution
- Read the rating plate and load chart. Rated load is the payload: people, tools, materials and equipment. The cage structure itself is not part of that payload.
- Distribute load evenly. Avoid concentrated loads, unstable stacks and loads that press on gates or guards.
- Secure loads so they cannot shift, roll or protrude. Do not allow loads to foul the landing edge or mast.
- Check the passenger limit. On a material-only hoist, nobody rides. On a passenger/goods hoist, count people and account for their tools.
- Stop operation when wind, visibility or weather exceeds the manufacturer's or site's limits.
Operating discipline
Keep the cage within the permitted travel, use normal controls, and do not use final limits as stops. At each landing, confirm the gate and landing are safe before moving. Never allow unauthorised people to enter the car or operate the controls.
Worked example
A hoist is rated at 1,000 kg. The planned load is three workers at 80 kg each (240 kg), tools 60 kg, and 18 packs of tiles at 40 kg each (720 kg). Total = 240 + 60 + 720 = 1,020 kg. That exceeds 1,000 kg by 20 kg. The correct action is to remove at least one pack, reducing the load to 980 kg, then redistribute and secure the remaining packs. If the hoist is material-only, the three workers cannot ride at all, so a different transport arrangement is needed.
Traps that cost marks
- Using a crane's safe working load instead of the hoist's rated load.
- Counting only materials and forgetting people and tools.
- Allowing "just one more person" because the cage has space.
- Assuming an evenly looking load is evenly distributed when it is concentrated on one side.