Businesses and construction companies from around the world use specialised lifting gear technologies on a regular basis, which is why it is important for construction companies to not only get the best out of their equipment, but to also invest in the correct equipment in the first place. If construction companies invest in incorrect lifting equipment for the task in hand, this could cost time at the very least, which we all know equals money.
Also lifting gear and lifting equipment must be maintained and checked intermittently (6 to 12 months depending on the kit) by registered contractors to ensure it complies with LOLER 1998. These checks can cost a little in the short term, but the long-term is great and essential investment.
There are some lifting gear suppliers that offer a free maintenance check when you purchase certain gear or if you spend over a certain amount on lifting equipment. Therefore, there are no excuses. In addition to the law and regulations, you should want to ensure the safety of employees and members of the public who may be in the vicinity of your operations.
This brings me to explaining the different lifting gear types available from good suppliers that you can find online…
Blocks and Hoists
There are three main types of blocks and hoists that you will more than likely need, especially if lifting heavy objects, these are below:
- Chain Lever Hoists – these can lift up to 9000kgs and no more
- Heavy Duty Chain Blocks – these lift up to 5000kgs
- Gin Blocks – a simple tackle block that consist of one wheel in which the rope runs over
Each serves different purposes and ensures that if you do require a chain or block hoist that you purchase the correct one(s); don’t try using a chain lever hoist that will for example, lift up to 1ton if you need to lift an object that is 1.2 tonnes. Always use the right kit for the job, simple!
Clamps and Girder Trolleys
There’s a vast range of clamps and girder trolleys available to hire or purchase on the market. However, just ensure that any girder trolleys or clamps that you do purchase have been tested and are certified to a high standard. With there being so many, I have listed the categories below:
- Adjustable Beam Clamps – For lifting up to 10000kgs of weight and is adjustable in order to be versatile for different jobs such as lifting and pulling objects.
- Vertical Plate Clamps
- Horizontal Plate Clamps – Are suitable for lifting up to 3000kgs; some companies do offer to specialise the plate clamps so that heavier objects can be lifted.
- Push Travel Girder Trolleys – The capacity of push travel girder trolleys is 5000kg
- Geared Type Girder Trolleys – These have a capacity of up to 5000kgs and must be tried and tested.
If you require further information regarding clamps and girder trolleys (there’s lot’s out there), you will find more online.
Round Slings
Round slings enable construction companies to lift objects of between 1 and 12 tonne; however, you may need to make several purchases depending on your requirements, as the round slings can only lift up to certain weights.
Furthermore, the round slings are colour coordinated depending on the weight that they are able to lift. This makes it so much easier to attach the correct sling depending on the weight that is required to be lifted; a busy construction site without colour coordinated round slings could turn out to be a complete disaster.
Adjustable and Standard Steering Skates
Steering Skates are used on a regular basis by companies in many industries throughout the world and not just in the construction industry. Skates are extremely useful when it comes to moving heavy items across the floor in a safe and steady manner and is an essential when it comes to lifting gear.
There are two types of skates available:
- Adjustable – these are attached by two skates which enable the length/width of skates to be adjustable.
- Standard – a singular skate
Either of the skates is variable in terms of the material in which they are made from. Both standard and adjustable skates are made from one of two materials; Nylon or Polyurethane. Polyurethane skates are more expensive, but the material is of better quality and will more often than not last longer. So depending on your budget, you may opt for the better quality skate over the cheaper skate.