Safety briefing - slinging and signalling

This briefing provides key points and control measures to ensure that when loads are suspended from a crane or other lifting equipment, the process is completed safely.

What’s covered?

The aim of this Safety Briefing - Slinging and Signalling is to ensure that staff are made fully aware of the risks, including falling materials.

Control measures

The briefing includes a list of measures which workers must take including preparing a lifting plan, ensuring that staff controlling the lift are competent and equipment is checked before use.

Key points

Attendees must take note of the following key points:

• “Only fully trained slingers should attach slings to loads.
• Staff should inspect the condition of the chains and slings for link damage, cracking, separation, fraying etc. before each use.
• Staff should understand the rated load for the chain, sling or hook. Hooks are usually stamped accordingly. If you cannot read the rated load tag on a sling, take the sling out of service.
• Staff should ensure there is a routine inspection checklist or preventive maintenance programme established for the chains and slings in your work area.
• Only competent staff should supervise lifting and give signals.
• Only one person should signal the crane operator. But anyone can give the STOP signal and it must be obeyed immediately.
• Hand signals must be clear and, wherever possible, barehanded.
• Where a difficult lift demands voice communication, use two-way radios instead of hand signals.
• Lifting plans should be prepared and followed by all involved in the lift.”