One of the golden rules of lifting operations: “Never stand under a suspended load.”
LIFTING OPERATION
🔸 Loading of steel plates using a crane
🔸 A steel cradle was used to support the plates
🔸 Two slings were used, looped through the crane block hook, forming a 4-leg sling configuration
🔸 Sling eyes connected via shackles
🔸 Area isolation was limited to the physical boundaries of the truck and crane
🔸 Vehicle traffic present in the lifting area
🔸 Lack of proper PPE
ACCIDENT
🔸 Apparently, one of the shackles failed, causing one sling leg to slip
🔸 The 4-leg sling configuration, with two legs in an inverted basket hitch, did not allow for any redistribution of the forces
🔸 The cradle and plates fell on the signalman, resulting in a fatal injury
🔸 Part of the load remained suspended by the crane via the remaining single-leg sling
PREVENTION
🔸 Never stand under a suspended load
🔸 Always perform lifting operations according to a rigging plan
🔸 Use slings and accessories from proven, certified manufacturers
🔸 Only use custom devices that have been engineered and certified
🔸 Ensure effective area isolation
🔸 Use trained personnel committed to safety
What are the other golden rules of lifting operations?
