Proper rigging equipment is essential for any helicopter lift project. The use of helicopter lifts is becoming increasingly popular in a variety of industries such as construction, oil and gas, and disaster relief. It allows for the safe and efficient transportation of heavy loads over large distances and in difficult to access areas. However, without the use of proper rigging equipment, helicopter lift projects can put your team and equipment at risk.
Rigging equipment is used to secure and control the load during the lift. It includes items such as slings, shackles, and hooks. The type of rigging equipment used will depend on the type and weight of the load being lifted. For example, a lighter load may be able to be lifted using a simple sling, while a heavier load may require the use of multiple slings and spreader bars.
The use of proper rigging equipment is essential for the safety of those involved in the lift. Improperly rigged loads can shift or become unstable during the lift, which can lead to accidents and injuries. Additionally, the failure of rigging equipment can result in the load falling and causing damage or injury.
It’s important to ensure that all rigging equipment is in good condition before each lift. This includes checking for any signs of wear, damage, or other defects. Any equipment that is found to be damaged or defective should be removed from service immediately.
It’s also important to ensure that all personnel involved in the lift are properly trained in the use of rigging equipment. This includes understanding how to properly select, inspect, and use the equipment. Additionally, personnel should be familiar with the load and how it behaves during the lift.
In addition to the safety aspect, proper rigging equipment is also important for the success of the lift project. If the load is not properly secured and controlled, it can make it difficult to maneuver and place in the desired location. This can lead to delays and additional costs.
One example of the importance of proper rigging equipment occurred during a construction project in the United Kingdom. A helicopter was being used to lift and place large pre-fabricated sections of a building into place. The rigging equipment that was being used was found to be damaged and not suitable for the weight of the load. As a result, the load shifted during the lift and caused damage to the building and injury to several workers. The incident led to a halt in the construction and an investigation into the cause.
Another example occurred during a disaster relief effort in the United States. A helicopter was being used to lift and transport supplies to a remote area that had been affected by a natural disaster. The rigging equipment that was being used was not properly inspected and a failure occurred during the lift. The supplies fell to the ground and were lost, and the incident caused delays in the relief effort.
In conclusion, proper rigging equipment is essential for any helicopter lift project. The use of proper rigging equipment ensures the safety of those involved in the lift, and it is also important for the success of the lift project. It’s important to ensure that all rigging equipment is in good condition before each lift and that all personnel involved in the lift are properly trained in the use of rigging equipment. Without proper rigging equipment, helicopter lift projects can be risky.
If your project requires custom rigging equipment, the team at Fair Lifts can have that made for you affordably. We will handle all the details from start to finish to make sure your equipment and staff are safe during the execution of your helicopter lift project.