Mechanical Aids and Handling Equipment
Types and selection
Aids include pallet trucks, trolleys, conveyors, scissor lifts, vacuum lifters, drum handlers, hoists and slings. Selection depends on the load, the route, the floor, the space and the frequency of the task. The aid must be suitable for the load, compatible with the environment, and maintained. Users need training and, where required, authorised competence.
Checks before use
Check the safe working load (SWL) and that the load is within it. Inspect for damage, leaks, frayed slings, missing pins or brakes. Check the floor and route. Use the aid as designed: a pallet truck is not a step, and a hoist is not a crane for a person unless designed for that purpose. Report defects and take the equipment out of service.
Worked example
An 80 kg crate must be moved 40 m across a smooth warehouse floor. Manual lifting is not reasonably practicable. A pallet truck or trolley is selected, the route is cleared, the SWL is checked, and the worker is trained. The load is secured and pushed rather than pulled where possible. If the route includes a step, the plan changes: a ramp or a different aid is needed, not a casual two-person lift.
Traps
Do not assume equipment removes the need for assessment. Do not use damaged or uncertified equipment. Do not exceed the SWL. Do not forget maintenance records and pre-use checks. Do not treat PPE as equivalent to an engineering aid.