Hello,

I am trying to avoid purchasing  BS 7906-1 Use of lifting equipment for performance, broadcast and similar applications. Are there any hoist experts out there or someone who has purchased the standards and can clarify a situation. 

I recently flagged up an issue with the site Im working at using Columbus McKinnon Prostar electric hoists

( 250kgs). When I tried to get information on the hoist category I was informed that it complies to BGV D8 and that this category of hoist cannot be used to suspend static or dynamic loads over people. ( I believe this may also be a BS7906 Cat B hoist). Everything I have read so far points me in the direction of using secondary suspension with the load once in position. The riggers on site have informed me that they use these hoists all the time and that they have never used secondaries and that the safety factor of 5:1 is increased due to the amount of hoists in use and that rather than 250kg they are only lifting/ supporting approx 50-75kgs. This allows them to use the hoists without the need for secondaries.

I have tried to confirm this but dont seem to be able to get a definitive answer. If someone has or knows the British Standard could they give me some advice please.

Failing that I will need to get the company to bite the bullet and purchase the standards.

Thank you in advance

£254 to hold the Code of Practice - yes an expense but in the grand scheme an absolute drop in the ocean (how much was the fine for Han Solo's broken leg?)