Posted By Graham Fry A 5 tonne drum of cable was being supported between 2 'cable jacks' by a large diameter steel tube (spindle). This tube had no markings or test cert to confirm its ability to support the weight. The tube sheared (apparently due to a latent defect) and the cable drum fell. Having looked at various information sources I cannot find any guidance relating to the supporting of cable drums and the LOLER guidance does not mention this kind if situation. I am of the opinion that such spindles should be classed as loose lifting tackle but others that I have spoken to disagree. Can anyone clarify this issue for me? thanks Graham

Posted By Andrew Joule Land All lifting equipment and accessories for lifting are work equipment under the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 which require that an employer only supplies work equipment that is correct and suitable for the job, and ensures that the equipment is maintained and kept in good working order. Competent person A person who has the practical and theoretical knowledge together with actual experience of what they are to examine so as to enable them to detect errors, defects, faults or weaknesses, which it is the purpose of the examination or inspection to discover; and to assess the importance of any such discovery. Where the use of the equipment involves a specific risk to the health and safety of employees, the use of the equipment must be restricted to specified workers. Foundations, stages, scaffolds, derrick masts, anchorages, etc. which have to carry a load must be of good construction and adequate strength. Winch frames must be made of metal. Section 2 of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 requires the provision and maintenance of plant and systems of work that are, so far as is reasonably practicable, safe and without risks to health. It should also be noted that compliance with a minimum standard may not be construed as doing all that is ‘reasonably practicable’.

Posted By Graham Fry Thanks to those that have responded. The spindle was used to support the drum as it was being elevated by the drum support jacks. The internal investigation has concluded that; "if loading onto a carrier involves the use of the drum carrier spindle to lift the drum – then the drum spindle must be uniquely identified with a load rating [both to be physically marked on the spindle in a stress free location (usually the end of the spindle)] and be subjected to 6m recorded inspections [LOLER] by a competent person. A copy of the current inspection record must be available at the ‘using point/location’ in the same manner as for chains, slings & shackles etc" regards Graham