ASME B30.20-2006 pdf – Below-the-Hook Lifting Devices.
(a) Adjustments shall be maintained to assure correct functioning of components.
(b) Repairs or replacements shall be made as needed.
SECTION 20-2.4: OPERATION
20-2.4.1 Operators
Below-the-hook lifting devices shall be operated only by trained, designated persons.
20-2.4.2 QualifIcations
Qualifications for operators of below-the-hook lifting devices are as follows:
(a) The operator shall be instructed in the use of the device by a designated person. Instructions should include, but not be limited to, the following:
(1) application of the lifter to the load and adjustments, if any, that adapt the lifter to various sizes or kinds of loads
(2) instructions in any special operations or precautions
(3) the manufacturer’s suggested operating procedures
(4) condition of the load required for operation of the lifter, such as, but not limited to, balance, surface cleanliness, flatness, bending, and load thickness
(5) storage of the lifter to protect it from damage
(6) not exceeding the rated load of the lifting device nor the capacity of the hoisting equipment by the combined weight of the load, the lifting device, and rigging
(7) charging of the battery (if required)
(8) the purpose of indicators, meters, or alarms on the vacuum lifter
(9) the proper attachment of adapters to lifting device for special load handling
(b) The operator shall demonstrate the ability to operate the lifter as instructed before assuming responsibility for using the lifter.
20-2.4.3 Conduct of Lifting Device Operators
(a) The operator shall give attention to the operation of the lifts during a lifting sequence.
(b) When physically or otherwise unfit, an operator shall not engage in the operation of the equipment.
(c) Operators shall be responsible for those operations under their direct control. Whenever there is any doubt as to safety, the operator shall consult with a designated person before handling the load.
(d) The operator shall respond only to instructions from designated persons. However, the operator shall obey a stop order at all times, no matter who gives it.
(c) The operation of the lifter shall be observed before use and during a shift. Any deficiency observed shall be carefully examined by a designated person. If the deficiency constitutes a hazard, the lifter shall be removed from service and tagged “Out of Service.” Any indication of a hazardous condition shall be reported to a qualified person for evaluation.
(fi The operator shall be familiar with standard hand signals when applicable.
g) The operator shall land any attached load and store the lifter before leaving the lifting device.
(Ii) All controls shall be tested by the operator before use during a shift. If any controls do not operate properly, they should be adjusted or repaired before operations are begun.
(1) The operator shall not ride, or allow others to ride, loads or the lifting device.
Q) The operator and other personnel shall stay clear of the load. Loads shall be guided by pushing or pulling at the edge in such a manner as to avoid endangering hands or other body parts as the load is lowered, or if it drops.
20-2.4.4 Lifting Device Operating Practices
(a) Lifting devices shall be operated only by the following qualified personnel:
(1) designated persons
(2) trainees under the direct supervision of a designated person
(3) maintenance and test personnel, when it is necessary in the performance of their duties
(4) inspectors (lifting devices)
(b) The lifting device shall not be loaded in excess of its rated load or handle any load for which it is not designed.
(c) The lifter shall be applied to the load in accordance with the instruction manual.
(d) Before lifting, the operator shall make sure that lifter ropes or chains are not kinked, and that multiple part lines are not twisted around each other.
(e) Care should be taken to make certain the load is correctly distributed for the lifter being used.
(f) The temperature of the load should not exceed the maximum allowable limits of the lifter.
(g) The lifter shall be brought over the load in such a manner as to minimize swinging.
(h) Care shall be taken that there is not sudden acceleration or deceleration of the load.
(i) Do not allow load or lifter to come into contact with any obstruction.
(j) The operator shall avoid carrying the load over people.