Many occupations require lifting operations. These can either be done manually or with the use of lifting equipment. Construction workers are at high risk for injury and health problems that can lead to disability or sick leave. Accidents and illnesses caused by lifting are costly.
Lifting Operations
Lifting operations are concerned with lifting and lowering a load. The item being lifted is called a load. This could be a person. Lifting operations can be done manually or with lifting equipment. For example, manual lifting, holding down, moving, or carrying is sometimes referred to by the term “manual handling loads”.
In construction, lifting operations occur when materials are transported from their storage location to the site where they will be processed and also during processing. Lifting equipment can lift or lower people or materials.
Construction equipment for lifting
The term lifting equipment refers to any machinery or equipment that is used in the workplace for lifting and lowering people or loads, as well as accessories or attachments for anchoring or fixing, or supporting. Examples of typical lifting equipment include:
- Lifting equipment for lifting people:
- A mobile elevating platform or aerial work platform is a device that provides temporary access to areas inaccessible to people and equipment, typically higher. Mechanised platforms come in different types. They can also be called scissor lifts or cherry pickers. These platforms can be mounted on a vehicle, or self-propelled. For an IPAF Course, contact Global FLT who provides the IPAF Course.
- Cranes are a type of machine that is equipped with wire ropes, chains or sheaves and a hoist. It can be used for lifting and lowering heavy materials, as well as moving them horizontally. There are many types of cranes used in the construction industry.
- Telehandlers are a crane type with a telescopic boom which can be extended forwards or upwards. The boom can have several attachments such as pallet forks or winches.
- Forklift trucks are powered industrial vehicles with forks and hydraulic lift systems that can pick up or transport material.