In material handling, it is sometimes determined that a single sling or lift point is insufficient to safely and effectively handle the load. Often, this happens in complex lifting scenarios, including when the load is deemed heavy, large or irregularly shaped.
A solution can often be found if multiple slings and lifting points are used instead. This different approach can help maintain load stability, reduce stress on weak areas, align with the load’s centre of gravity and ultimately avoid overloading a single sling or point.
While it remains essential to consult the applicable health and safety professionals before undertaking a lift with multiple sling or lifting points, here is an overview of some of the steps that are typically involved from the Metreel team.
Planning The Lift
All lifting operations should be subject to careful planning, and adapting the technique to include multiple slings or points is no exception.
Planning aims to identify the risks involved so that these risks can best be mitigated through the approach which will be developed in response.
Some key points to determine when planning a lift include:
- The weight of the load
- The dimensions of the load
- Number of lifting points required (based on the load geometry and weight distribution)
- Load stability requirements
- Centre of gravity
- Rigging methods
- Any known hazards
A pre-lift meeting should take place to cover all points applicable to the specific lifting operation. Personnel roles will need to be assigned.
Also, the weather conditions should be closely monitored to ensure the lift is safe to go ahead. Otherwise, alternative plans will need to be made.
Choosing The Right Slings
When using multiple slings and lifting points, there also needs to be a consideration of the type of lifting sling. Choosing the right type of lifting sling is important as the wrong decision may lead to equipment failure, damage to the load and even serious injury.
Chain slings are ideal for heavy-duty or rugged loads, including if the load will also be exposed to high temperatures.
Wire rope slings are incredibly versatile, as they are strong and also resistant to crushing. But, they should be avoided when soft contact is needed.
Another option is synthetic slings, which are lightweight and geared towards finished loads. However, synthetic slings should be avoided if the load has sharp edges, or if the environment involves high heat or chemical exposure.
You may also be interested in: The Common Types Of Slings And What You Need To Know About Them
Load Distribution
When the most suitable sling has been chosen, each sling will need to be set up so that it supports the load evenly. This is because uneven load distribution can overload a sling or a lifting point.
To balance and distribute loads, spreader bars or lifting beams should be used. Load cells can also provide real-time monitoring.
Inspect Slings And Hardware
Each of the slings and corresponding hardware will need to be inspected before use.
Look out for frays, kinks, broken wires, corrosion and wear. Any of these signs are a cause for concern and will require attention (i.e. replacement of the sling) before the lifting operation can continue.
Also, the rated load capacity (WLL) of all slings and shackles will need to be verified.
Rigging Setup
Another important aspect of safely managing loads with multiple slings and lifting points is to pay attention to the rigging setup.
The main duties include positioning slings to maintain symmetry, avoiding twists or knots in the slings, attaching slings securely using appropriate hardware and keeping sling angles as close to vertical as possible.
Top Tips During The Lift
- Ensure only qualified personnel are in the lift area
- Lift slowly to monitor load balance
- Watch for shifting or rotating
- Stop immediately if any sling looks overstressed
Looking To Lift Heavy Or Awkward Loads? Discover Material Handling Solutions At Metreel
Metreel is a leading installer of material handling equipment such as cranes, gantries, hoists, balancers and more.
Take a look around our website to view our lifting solutions in more detail.
Or, if you need any advice about our products please send us a message or give us a call on 0115 932 7010.