Rank: Super forum user 
|
A heavy machine part needs cleaning of residual oil and the current arrangements are that the piece is lifted by FLT and slings and allowed to hang from one fork, whilst a worker uses a cleaning cloth.
My concerns are:
1) the work piece swings due to the pressure exerted by the manual cleaning, possibly exposing the worker to an impact injury
2) there is the possibility for the sling to slide off the fork
3) if a work table is used there is the additional possibility of the piece rolling or tipping and it would need to be repositioned a few times with the additional lifts adding to the exposure
I am not sure which is the better scenario: accept the free hanging load or introduce a work table.
What are people's opinions please?
Thank you
David
|
|
|
|
|
|
Rank: Forum user 
|
Hi David,
I wouldn't sling the load directly onto the forks this created an underslung load. You can get a FLT attachment that slides over the forks directly with a purpose built in lifting eye below you can sling directly onto, it has a latch to prevent the slings moving as a lifting accessory it would need thorough examinations as well as the FLT.
You would also need to check the weights for the FLT and attachments, that it is never exceeded, the swl can also change depending on the duties you are operating.
Once your load is raised you could perhaps strap it steady or wedge it to prevent movement ?
I know its only a part answer but its a start !
|
|
|
|
|
|
Rank: Forum user
|
David,
Concur with Rob's response RE the use of a lifting attachment for the FLT.
I would take it a step further and lay the machine onto some designed and rated stools which you could hire if none are directly available to you (one per corner would be ideal)
Even if you need to pick up and re-position, there should be minimal risk to workers as you have the right tools in place for the job.
I personally would never support working under or near a suspended load.
Hope this helps
|
|
|
|
|
|
Rank: Super forum user 
|
Working under a suspended load is never a good idea and I refer you to the Landrover accident when an operative suspended a baseplate, pump and motor from an eyebolt designed for just one component. He got underneath the assembly and the eyebolt pulled out crushing him below the item.
As said, there is proper forklift attachment with a hook which could be used, but I would be tempted to use the forklift attachment, sling and the workbench - belt and braces approach rather than just one or the other. The more controls you put in place, the less likely you are to have an accident. You do not say how big this item is, but I am assuming from your controls that it is cylindrical in shape (hence the rolling) and quite sizeable. If you maintain the sling on the workpiece as well as the worktable, then moving and repositioning should be a relatively easy task for two people to accomplish.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Rank: Super forum user
|
quick check - agreeing with all said above but - if a load is 'slung' from one fork - regardless of risks and controls as described by others - the swl will NOT be the full rated capacity of the truck - it will be less than half that... The FLT is designed to take a balanced load across both forks. Applying assymetric (one fork only) loads will create a different set of stresses on the chains, hydraulics and other moving parts which the machinery is not designed to cope with... If the load is even half the rated capacity, the additional wear caused by uneven loading could seriously weaken the machinery in a very short timescale...
But as suggested by others - there has top be a better way of doing this!
Steve
|
|
|
|
|
|
Rank: Forum user
|
If you have to use the FLT, fit an approved rated fork crane kib attachment; ensure all sings, lifting points are used within SWL. Use props or stands to support the load. Working on or under a suspended load is not a safe practice. There are many systems that can be hired in to support loads to be worked on.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Rank: Super forum user
|
Many thanks to all contributors. Further points of view still welcome.
David
|
|
|
|
|
|
Rank: Super forum user 
|
As others have said, but I'm going to ask the obvious :-
Do you really need to clean off the oil ? or is it cutting fluid.
Can it be cleaned while suspended without the operative or any part of the operative being under or right next to the item ? A sponge on a long stick type of thing.
What level of cleaning are you talking about, removal of drips or degreased (de oiled completely). You can get parts washers that require no cleaning by a person.
What size & weight are we talking just slightly too much to handle or half a tonne.
How will you rotate it in the sling to reposition it ? As I'm guessing it is not completely round. Will there be some man handling (or woman handling) ? If so be careful not to pull it off the forks (even with the item noted above).
|
|
|
|
|
|
You cannot post new topics in this forum.
You cannot reply to topics in this forum.
You cannot delete your posts in this forum.
You cannot edit your posts in this forum.
You cannot create polls in this forum.
You cannot vote in polls in this forum.