Whether hoisting machinery, materials, or fabricated structures, safely securing loads during lifting operations is paramount. Lanyards play an essential yet often overlooked role in maintaining control and stability. As with all lifting equipment, following best practices with lanyards is crucial for risk mitigation.

What are lanyards and how are they used?

Lanyards, sometimes called strops or slings, are flexible cables or webbed assemblies with hooks, D-rings, or shackles on both ends. They attach loads to cranes, hoists, or other lifting tools to transfer weight during movements. Lanyards can be single-legged or multi-legged, with the latter providing redundancy. Lifting equipment manufacturers in UAE produce high-quality synthetic and wire rope lanyards for industries like construction, shipbuilding, and wind power.

Lanyard selection factors

Proper lanyard selection depends on several factors: the load weight, number of lift points, lifting geometry, and environmental conditions. Fibre or alloy construction suits different needs. Lifting equipment manufacturers help determine the optimal lanyard design rated for a given task. Lanyards should never be used for anything outside their working load limit (WLL), and damaged lanyards pose dangerous failure risks. 

Safe lanyard inspection and use

Lanyards deserve close inspection equal to other rigging gear like slings and shackles. Watch for cuts, abrasions, melted fibers, broken stitching, or corrosion that compromise strength. Color-coded lanyards indicate the inspection period. Green/new may be used until the first visual inspection when recorded yellow. Red/damaged lanyards must be destroyed. Tag lanyards with a rated capacity and inspection date. Position snatch blocks or increase lead angles to reduce potential shock loads on lanyards when slack is suddenly taken up.

Key considerations for load stabilization

Multiple lanyards in a basket configuration or strategic spreader bars help center loads for safer lifts by offsetting any uneven weight distribution. Lanyards should never be positioned at extreme angles that cause unnecessary tension on fibers or wire. Qualified riggers should visually monitor lifts, ready to adjust lanyard lengths if loads begin to sway dangerously due to environmental factors like wind gusts. Taking these stabilization precautions is paramount for incident-free lifting operations.

With diligent maintenance, inspection, and handling according to ratings, lanyards from trusted lifting equipment manufacturers in UAE provide an essential yet low-cost layer of protection for loads, cranes, and personnel during lifting activities. Their role in securing loads deserves recognition.

Handling large metal plates is a common need in industries like construction, shipbuilding, manufacturing, and more. Plate lifting clamps have become indispensable lifting tools for safely moving these heavy materials. As lifting equipment suppliers in the UAE can attest, clamps offer advantages over other options like slings or chains. 

• Increased safety

Slings can slip or suddenly drop a load if not properly configured. Chains dangling from loads pose swing and collision hazards. However, clamps securely grip the plate at designated pickup points. They maintain full control during lifts, positioning the load evenly without risk of fall or swing. This provides vital safety for the workers below.

• Protects plate edges

Unlike unpadded chains or webbing, clamps have protective rubber edges that cushion the plate from damage. They prevent plates from getting dented, gouged, or scratched during handling. This saves on replacement costs and preserves quality for painting or other finishing. Plate lifting clamp suppliers offer models suitable for different materials.

• Simplifies multi-lift jobs

Construction projects regularly require lifting and moving multiple plates simultaneously. Chains make coordinating lifts difficult with limited connection points. But clamps allow evenly distributing the load over various pickup points on each plate. This streamlines the lifting of multiple materials, speeding the completion of tasks.

• Versatility for various tasks

Clamps smoothly adapt to diverse lifting needs beyond simple vertical lifts. They support angled pulling, sliding, or pendulating motions needed for installation tasks. Clamps even clamp onto odd shapes or partially finished materials when chains cannot. Their versatility maximizes productivity for a wide range of job site activities.

• Enhanced material tracking

Individually clamping plates preserve identification codes, marks, or labels attached. This maintains traceability through stages like production, assembly, and installation. It prevents mix-ups from damaged identification with clamps, unlike other lift methods. Proper material tracking is essential for construction certification.

• Long lifespan and value

With regular maintenance, high-quality plate lifting clamps will handle tons of material over their lifetime. Replacing broken chains or slings adds expense. Clamps deliver a strong return on investment for contractors and manufacturers that require lifting plate materials frequently. 
Plate lifting clamps have proven themselves extremely useful in industries where heavy metal plates are frequently handled such as construction, manufacturing, and logistics. Their safety, workload, and material protection benefits justify their initial cost for many businesses. Experts highly recommend relying on high-quality equipment from reputable plate lifting clamp suppliers for efficient operations. Regular use of clamps pays off in increased productivity and accident prevention.

Power is transferred from the building supply to the crane runway and bridge crane control panel via cable festoons, conductor bars, or cable reels. The same components are then employed to power the hoist trolley across the bridge.

The crane and hoists are controlled by an operator using push button pendants or radio remote controls. All of these parts work together to allow the bridge and hoist to move over the weight. After the load has been lifted, the bridge crane is driven to its destination and the load is lowered using the push button pendant or radio remote control.

Every electrical delivery method to a crane has advantages and downsides. The sort of system you choose will be determined by your power requirements, power availability, crane system size, and the work environment.

One of the most common methods of electrifying and supplying power to a crane and hoist is through conductor bars (also known as power bars, figure eight bars, or hot bars). When compared to other power systems, a conductor bar uses a sliding shoe collector system, which eliminates most of the exposed conductor safety hazards while also supplying higher amperage power.

Most conductor bar electrification systems now have a cover to protect them from the elements. The conductor bar may or may not be insulated in some applications, but the most common types have insulated covers.

Components:

• Conductor bar — The supply of incoming power and/or control along the runway or bridge is provided by the conductor bar.
• Power feed — Incoming power is connected to the conductor bar through a power supply.
• Collector — a device that collects electrical current from a conductor bar and sends it to a machine.
• Brackets — a device that allows many hangers to be attached to a runway or bridge.
• Hangers — Attach the conductor bar to the brackets with hangers.
• End cover — a safety barrier at the conductor system’s end.
• Anchor clamp — a device that directs conductor movement during thermal expansion and contraction.

Advantages:

Conductor bar systems for overhead cranes are typically installed on the crane’s runway systems or monorail cranes and can be used on both indoor and outdoor cranes. One of the most significant advantages of adopting a conductor bar system is that it may be used on runways with several bridges.

With a variety of brackets and hanger clamps, they’re also highly cost-effective and simple to install. They’re also great for low-headroom situations where cables can’t dangle down, as well as systems with a curve or track switch.

Finally, conductor bars are ideal for crane configurations where future upgrades or extensions are a possibility. Because conductor bars are so easy to link together for installation, runway systems can be extended more easily and at a lower cost. Conductor bars are also ideal for ensuring power continuity in interlocking crane systems.

If you have a crane at your workplace, it should be inspected on a regular basis by someone who is professionally qualified to do so. All cranes should be inspected annually, according to OSHA regulations. Important crane components will deteriorate over time because of continuous use. This wear and tear can eventually result in crane failure or dangerous failure, putting your entire team or company at risk.

Routine crane inspections aid in spotting potential issues, which can then be remedied before irreparable or costly incidents occur. An inspector for cranes and lifting equipment should have experience with maintenance, servicing, modification, repair, and functional testing of cranes and lifting equipment.

No one is allowed to inspect cranes unless they have been adequately trained. Overhead crane inspection services are divided into four categories: initial, functional, frequent, and periodic.

An initial inspection is a documented visual inspection performed after the installation of a new crane or the modification of an existing crane. It will be conducted by an authorized person, who will thereafter provide a written report. The purpose of a functional test inspection is to see if any of the functional operational mechanisms are malfunctioning. Valve, drain pump, and other components are examined for deterioration or leaking.

It’s done on a daily or monthly basis to check for excessive component wear. This also verifies non-compliance with the manufacturer’s guidelines. The hoist brake, load chains, and other components should receive special attention from the inspection. A crane in heavy use should be inspected at least once a week.

The frequency of periodic inspection is determined by the crane’s use. Cranes that are used for both light and heavy work should be inspected once a year.

Dutest Industries provides dependable and accredited lifting equipment inspection services in the UAE. Clients benefit from the company’s best lifting solutions and crane inspection services.

Choosing the appropriate fall protection system is not only important for compliance in high-risk work areas where falls are a serious hazard, but it can also be a life-saving choice. Safety experts and decision-makers are still debating between single anchor point systems and horizontal lifelines because of the strict safety rules that are in place across all industries. Fall protection systems must be installed in any industry where workers must reach high altitudes. Amongst the several available options, the anchor point and the horizontal lifeline are the most prominent ones.

Single anchor point

The single anchor point offers a fixed point to which a worker can connect their lifeline. This is adept for a scenario where a worker is required to move vertically and need a secure point to anchor themselves. Ranging from rooftop repairs to construction tasks, the single anchor provides simplicity and reliability. The biggest benefit of a single anchor point is its simplicity, this will allow workers to attach their fall arrest systems to an anchor which reduces downtime and stress-free workflow.
These single anchor points are extremely versatile and be installed from any location. Ranging from rooftops to steel structures, these points provide flexibility while enhancing safety features. They’re highly cost-effective and are the best option for smaller businesses or companies with a tight budget.

Horizontal lifeline

The horizontal lifeline is a solution that enables lateral movement alongside a designated path. This system consists of a cable or track that spreads across a work area which allows multiple works to travel horizontally and keep a continuous connection at the same time. The horizontal lifeline offers a great deal of mobility for workers. It allows them to move laterally which in turn covers large work areas without needing constant detachment and reattachment to anchor points. The horizontal lifeline also boasts multi-user capability which enables you to connect of several workers to the same system where workers require it to operate simultaneously at the same height. This boosts efficiency without compromising on safety. The straight nature of the lifeline makes sure that the workers remain anchored to a secure point, this provides a secure safety net and eliminates the risk of a fall.

Which is the right system for your needs?

If you are seeking safety equipment in UAE, choosing a single anchor point and a horizontal lifeline relies on many factors ranging from the nature of the work, the layout of the site, and cost considerations, For Any task that needs vertical requirements in a specific location, a single anchor point will work. The projects have large work areas, and many workers benefit from the coverage a horizontal lifeline provides.

Plate clamps serve an invaluable purpose for lifting and maneuvering heavy metal sheets during manufacturing and construction work. Unlike chains or slings, these rigid devices distribute force evenly across plates for secure handling. But without proper precautions, using plate clamps carries potential pinch or slip hazards if things go awry. Luckily, following basic safe operating guidelines combined with quality equipment sourcing from trusted lifting gear suppliers UAE helps mitigate risks substantially.

1. Choosing the best plate for the job

The overall capacity and size of the plate lifter need to align with the sheets being maneuvered. Standard clamps can raise plates from 1,500 to 6,000 lbs in weight and up to 16 feet in length. Select sturdy clamp frames specifically rated for your plate sizes and avoid overloading. The reputable plate lifting clamp suppliers also indicate safe operating tilt angles and provide overload alarms. Further, customized or vacuum plate clamps are available for procedure flexibility and extra grip on finishes like stainless steel.

2. Strategic pick points matter

Consider the plate’s center of gravity when positioning the clamp. Adjusting the width between pads lets you pick close to the middle for level control. An off-center weight distribution increases the chances of slippage and binding stress on the clamp mechanism. Mapping the ideal pick points on varying plate dimensions takes planning but prevents accidents. Dual clamps can also provide extra stability for wide-spanning sheets. Communicating approach directions with team members ensures everyone is clear on the handling plan too.

3. Keep it stable.

Hoisting overly tilted plates adds to horizontal momentum that’s tough to control safely. Use guide ropes held by spotters on the ground to gently stabilize plates if necessary. Telescoping boom forklifts positioning clamps can also make angled grasping more feasible. Mainly keep the maneuver gradual and avoid sudden jerks. Taking things slow with wide, awkward plates beats quick reflexes. And lock pad rotation before hoisting to prevent potential spinning. 

4. Mind the pinch points

While grasping and lifting, operators should position themselves well clear from between the clamp and load in case of potential sudden drops. Plates can also shift unexpectedly if held at poor balance points. Stay alert even once a load is lifted as limbs could still get caught. Clearly signaling fellow crew about impending grabs, moves, and releases ensures they too keep a safe distance. Following these basic rules prevents painful pinches or crushing scenarios should things unexpectedly go sideways.

5. Confirm closure security

Visually verifying full clamp closure around the plate before hoisting it up eliminates doubts. Many models also have electronic load cells to check sufficient friction holding pressure, indicated by illuminating lights. But don’t depend solely on technology in the heat of action – take those few seconds to manually look at the pad contact for assurance. Dropped plates cause immense damage, not to mention hazarding crew. So, leave zero room for error on closure security for every single lift.

Using the properly rated plate clamps selected from your trusted plate lifting clamp supplier coupled with safe operating techniques will keep worksite productivity high while protecting onsite teams. Implementing the strategies above around planning, communication, methodical maneuvering, and double-checking equipment integrity leads the path to smooth, incident-free plate handling.

Installing lifts and escalators in office buildings can greatly improve accessibility and convenience for employees and visitors. However, several factors should be considered before installation to ensure that the equipment is safe, efficient, and meets the needs of the building’s occupants. The passenger lifts and escalators should be designed and installed in accordance with relevant safety standards and codes, and regular maintenance and inspection should be performed to ensure that the equipment is functioning properly.

Safety

The equipment should be designed and installed in accordance with relevant safety standards and codes. Additionally, regular maintenance and inspection should be performed to ensure that the equipment is functioning properly and to prevent any potential hazards.

Building layout

The layout of the building plays a crucial role in determining the best location for the lift or escalator. Factors such as the number of floors, the amount of foot traffic, and the location of staircases should be considered to ensure that the equipment is easily accessible and convenient for all users.

Capacity

The lift or escalator should have a capacity that is sufficient to meet the needs of the building’s occupants. This includes not only the number of people who will use the equipment but also the size and weight of any goods that will be transported. Knowing when the majority of people enter and exit the building, as well as taking the lunchtime rush into account, will make it easier to decide how many elevators you need to design to ensure efficiency.

Energy efficiency

The equipment should be designed to consume minimal energy and should be equipped with features such as regenerative drives to minimize power consumption.

Cost

This includes not only the cost of the equipment itself, but also the cost of installation, maintenance, and repairs. It is important to choose equipment that is cost-effective and has a low cost of ownership.

Aesthetics & accessibility

The lift or escalator should be designed to be accessible to people with disabilities and should comply with relevant accessibility codes and standards. It should be designed to blend in with the overall aesthetic of the building and complement the design of the interior and exterior spaces. The weight of lift interior finishes increases the system’s overall mass, which in turn expands the size of the lift’s machinery and raises the energy required to operate the lift.

Dutest understands the importance of occupational safety and the necessity to provide proficient goods and services and provides all the installation and inspection services as per the standards. Reach out today for more information!

One of the most frequent reasons for fatalities and major injuries at work are falls. Fall-related accidents accounted for 39% of all fatalities in the construction industry in 2019, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). This is why having suitable fall safety systems in place is essential. Systems for preventing or reducing the risk of falls from heights are called fall protection systems. Fall prevention, fall restraint, and fall arrest systems are a few examples of fall protection systems.

Fall prevention systems

Systems for preventing falls among employees are intended to do just that. In circumstances where the employment of alternative fall protection systems is not an option, this type of device is ideal. A fall prevention system would be the best choice, for instance, if a worker is working on a flat roof without parapets or guardrails. Systems for preventing falls frequently include safety nets, coverings, and guardrails. The most popular kind of fall prevention system is guardrails. They are made up of a toe board, a mid-rail, and a top rail. The toe board should be at least 4 inches high, the top rail at least 43 inches high, and the mid-rail situated midway between them.

Fall restraint systems.

The purpose of fall restraint devices is to keep workers from getting too close to the edge of a surface where they could fall. When personnel must operate close to a surface’s edge but not close enough to tumble over it, a fall prevention system of this type is the best option. Systems for fall protection frequently incorporate a harness, lanyard, and anchor point. The anchor point, to which the lanyard is attached, is intended to maintain the worker’s weight in the case of a fall. When fall prevention techniques are impractical or impossible, as is the case when working on a slanted roof, fall restraint systems are frequently used.

Fall arrest systems.

Systems for fall arrest are created to safeguard workers who have already fallen. These systems depend on a harness, lanyard, and anchor point to work together to arrest the fall and stop the worker from reaching the ground. When using a suspended platform or when working on a high-rise building, for example, or when it is impossible to avoid a fall, fall arrest systems are frequently utilized. The use of fall arrest devices reduces the risk of harm by limiting the forces that are delivered to the worker’s body in the case of a fall. Fall arrester blocks are useful when the anchor is difficult to access, or the clearance distance is insufficient.

Fall prevention, fall restraint, and fall arrest systems all serve different purposes when it comes to protecting workers from falls. It is important to carefully assess the risks associated with a particular job or task and choose the appropriate fall protection system to keep workers safe. By doing so, employers can help prevent accidents and ensure a safe working environment for their employees.

Dutest provides the most reliable solutions regarding fall protection systems and provides high-quality fall arrester blocks!

Elevators are a constant in modern life, allowing us to travel between floors easily and conveniently. Lifts, like any mechanical system, need routine maintenance and sporadic repairs to maintain their dependability and safety. Let’s look at some of the frequently asked questions about elevator testing in UAE, along with its maintenance and repair to shed light on the intricacies of this service.

1. How often should elevators be maintained?

Elevator maintenance frequency varies depending on factors like the elevator’s type, usage, and local regulations. Generally, lifts need maintenance at least once every three to six months. To ensure optimal operation and safety, high-traffic lifts in commercial buildings could necessitate more frequent maintenance.

2. Why is elevator maintenance important?

Regular maintenance is essential for several reasons. It ensures the safety of passengers by identifying and rectifying potential issues. Moreover, it prolongs the lifespan of the elevator, reduces the risk of costly breakdowns, and keeps the system operating efficiently.

3. What are the common maintenance tasks for elevators?

Elevator maintenance involves a series of tasks, including inspecting and lubricating moving parts, checking safety features, and testing emergency systems. Technicians also evaluate the electrical and mechanical components for wear and tear and potential issues.

4. How can I choose a reputable elevator maintenance provider?

Selecting a reliable maintenance provider is crucial. Look for companies with a strong track record in elevator servicing, experienced technicians, and a reputation for safety and compliance. Customer reviews and references are valuable resources for assessing a service provider’s reliability.

5. Are there regulations governing elevator maintenance?

Yes, there are strict regulations in place to ensure elevator safety. These regulations specify maintenance requirements, inspection schedules, and safety standards. Elevator maintenance companies must adhere to these regulations to keep elevators in compliance.

6. How do I know when an elevator needs repairs?

Elevators often provide warning signs when repairs are needed. Common indicators include unusual noises, slow or jerky movement, inconsistent leveling, and error messages on the control panel. If passengers report any of these issues, it’s crucial to have the elevator inspected and repaired promptly.

7. What are some common elevator repairs?

Elevator repairs can encompass a wide range of issues, from simple fixes like replacing light bulbs or buttons to more complex tasks like repairing damaged wiring, replacing worn-out cables, or addressing issues with the control system. It’s essential to address even minor problems promptly to prevent them from escalating.

8. How long does an elevator repair typically take?

The complexity of the issue will determine how long it takes to repair a lift. While extensive overhauls could require several days or longer, minor repairs can usually be finished in a few hours. Elevator technicians will provide an estimate of the repair time after evaluating the issue.

9. Can I perform elevator maintenance and repairs in-house?

While some routine maintenance tasks, such as cleaning and lubricating, can be performed by building staff, most elevator maintenance and repairs require specialized knowledge and training. It’s strongly recommended to hire certified elevator technicians or contractors for such work to ensure safety and compliance.

10. How can I minimize elevator repair costs?

Preventive maintenance is the key to minimizing elevator repair costs. Regular inspections and maintenance can identify issues before they become expensive problems. Working with a trustworthy maintenance provider might also enable you to save money overtime by lowering breakdowns and the associated repair expenses.
For these important transportation systems to operate safely, effectively, and for a long time, lift maintenance and repair are needed. By understanding these frequently asked questions received by the top inspection companies in UAE, you can do regular maintenance and prompt repairs and hence prevent costly breakdowns and keep them operating smoothly.