WHY SHOULD YOU USE CERTIFIED LIFTING EQUIPMENT?

When it comes to lifting equipment, two critical certifications play a significant role: one focuses on the engineering authorization regarding the equipment's capacity, while the other involves periodic visual inspections. Despite the UK government mandating the use of certified lifting equipment and requiring employers to offer proper training to their staff for safe usage, there are still instances where equipment lacks proper engineering or certification.

Using certified lifting equipment is essential because it is legally required in the UK. The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) governs the use of lifting equipment, mandating that all devices bear a professional seal and are certified by an engineer in writing. This certification must clearly outline the equipment’s capacity, including details about loading conditions and rating information. Furthermore, manufacturers are obligated to employ a non-destructive testing (NDT) engineer to perform documented inspections periodically.

With a certified lifting device, you can work confidently, knowing that both you and those around you at the worksite will be safe. Certification ensures that the equipment meets structural requirements for specific work conditions or load capacities. Regular inspections also guarantee proper maintenance and operational safety. When an engineer certifies a device, they confirm that it has been thoroughly inspected and deemed safe for routine use. These documents serve as guidelines for employees to operate the equipment correctly.

In certain cases, an engineer might need to conduct a quality control assessment of the manufacturing process. Typically, the engineer will specify a set of fabrication codes that manufacturers must adhere to during equipment construction. These codes aim to uphold high-quality standards throughout production. Additionally, these standards demand that employers hire qualified welders to execute qualified welding procedures. Sometimes, a quality control program may be combined with an ISO9001 or similar initiative to incorporate further quality control measures like material traceability. The ultimate goal of such efforts is to produce defect-free products capable of enduring a long lifespan.

Employers who opt for certified lifting devices exhibit responsible behavior. Stakeholders understand that the employer is committed to making the workplace safer for everyone. Using certified lifting equipment shifts liability for equipment safety between the operator and the certifying engineer. The engineer ensures the device is safe, while the operator is responsible for promoting its safe use. Therefore, the employer’s sole concern should be addressing potential liabilities arising from equipment misuse.

Verify whether your current lifting devices possess proper documentation detailing the original engineering conducted on them. Schedule an annual inspection and request your inspector to perform a code review. If you discover that the base-level engineering is missing, consider replacing the equipment or having it reverse-engineered. Reverse engineering could be costly for mass-produced items, and there’s a risk of failing to comply with codes. However, it might be a viable option if you're dealing with large, specialized products.

Remember, investing in certified lifting equipment not only protects your workers but also safeguards your business from legal and financial risks. It’s crucial to stay compliant with regulations and prioritize safety in every aspect of your operations. By ensuring that your lifting equipment is properly certified and maintained, you contribute to a safer working environment for everyone involved.