Ropes and Chains
FIBER ROPE
- Never drag a rope. This hurts the outer fibers and leads to the eventual deterioration of the rope’s overall strength.
- Avoid kinking. This strains the rope and overstresses the fibers.
- Splice, don’t knot. When the job requires joining lengths of ropes, they should be spliced, not knotted. A properly done splice will hold up 100% of the strength of the rope, but a knot only half.
- Dry out rope after use to prevent deterioration.
- Don’t allow rope to freeze.
- Store away from heat, moisture, chemicals, rodents, and sunlight.
- Clean rope before storage.
WIRE ROPE
- Use sheaves and drums of suitable size and design.
- Lubricate properly, and according to schedule.
- Don’t exceed the rated capacity of wire rope.
- Be sure to use the correct lay (twist) for the application.
CHAINS
- Take up slack slowly and make sure every link seats correctly.
- Never force a hook over a chain link.
- Chain shackles are to be used for shortening and/or splicing chains together.
- Using bolts as makeshift links or fasteners is prohibited.
CHAIN/WIRE ROPE MOTORS
- Make sure your hoist anchor point is rated and adequate for the job.
- Always inspect the hoist for defects before each use. Check the full length of the chain for worn, gouged, twisted and distorted links, proper lubrication and foreign material.
- Check the full length of the wire rope for broken strands, abrasions, kinks, and corrosion.
- Do not operate hoist with twisted, kinked, or damaged chain or rope.
- Check the limit switch settings prior to loading. Operate the hoist in the up and down position to determine if the limit switches are set correctly.
- Make a load test by lifting and lowering a load slightly. Check for unusual sounds and make sure the hoist is operating smoothly and that the brakes hold without slipping.
- Do not lift more than the rated load.
- Always center the hoist over the load. Be sure the hoist and load chain are in a straight line.
- Always stand completely clear of the load when operating a hoist.