Vehicle hoists are convenient for elevating vehicles for maintenance and repair. They are now indispensable in many garages and workshops. As with any heavy equipment, safety is paramount when operating them. This article explores the critical aspects of safe operation, encompassing pre-use inspection, proper usage, and essential safety protocols, ensuring a secure and productive working environment.

Understanding the Risks

Vehicle hoists are complex machinery with intricate mechanisms and powerful hydraulic systems. Potential hazards could include:

• Mechanical failure: Hoists rely on various components, including hydraulics, chains, and cables. A malfunction in any of these could lead to unexpected lowering or dropping of the vehicle, causing injury or damage.
• Incorrect usage: Operating a hoist beyond its capacity or without proper training can lead to instability, overloading, or structural failure.
• Environmental factors: Oil leaks, slippery floors, and inadequate lighting can create hazardous conditions.

Pre-Use Inspection - The First Line of Defence

A thorough pre-use inspection is paramount before each use. This minimises the risk of failure and ensures the hoist is in good working order.

Visual Inspection:

• Check for any visible damage. Inspect all lifting chains, cables, hooks, and supporting structures for signs of wear, cracks, or corrosion.
• If your hoist is hydraulic, assess the hydraulic system. Look for leaks and fluid levels, and ensure the pump and cylinder operate smoothly.
• Examine safety devices. Confirm the presence and functionality of safety locks, limit switches, and overload protection systems.

Functional Test:

• Run the hoist through its full range of motion. Ensure it rises and lowers smoothly without jerking or binding.
• Test safety features. Engage the safety locks and verify they hold the vehicle securely in any position.
• Check for proper alignment. Ensure the hoist is properly aligned with the vehicle, preventing uneven lifting and potential damage.

Operating the Hoist Safely

Know Your Hoist:

• Read and understand the manufacturer's manual. This contains crucial information about the hoist's capabilities, limitations, and safety procedures.
• Complete the appropriate training. Get formal training on the specific hoist model and its operation.
• Familiarise yourself with emergency procedures. Understand how to safely lower the vehicle in case of power loss or malfunction.

Proper Vehicle Positioning:

• Align the vehicle with the hoist. Ensure the vehicle is properly positioned on the lifting cradle.
• Secure the vehicle. Use safety locks and chocks to prevent the vehicle from rolling during lifting.
• Avoid overloading the hoist. Check the manufacturer's weight capacity and ensure the vehicle's weight does not exceed it.

Safe Lifting and Lowering:

• Raise the vehicle slowly. Avoid rapid acceleration or deceleration, allowing the hoist to operate smoothly.
• Monitor the lift. Observe the vehicle and the hoist for any unusual sounds or movements.
• Lower the vehicle gradually. Do not allow it to drop suddenly.
• Do not work beneath a raised vehicle. Always ensure the vehicle is securely lowered before performing any work beneath it.

Essential Safety Precautions:

• Use proper personal protective equipment (PPE). Wear safety shoes, gloves, and safety glasses.
• Ensure a clear work area. Remove obstacles and ensure adequate space for manoeuvring around the vehicle.
• Maintain proper communication. Communicate with others in the area, particularly when lifting or lowering the vehicle.
• Never allow unauthorised personnel to operate the hoist. Only trained individuals with proper authorisation should operate the hoist.

Ongoing Maintenance - Ensuring Long-Term Safety

Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the safe and efficient operation of vehicle hoists.

• Routine lubrication: Lubricate all moving parts according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
• Inspect chains and cables: Regularly check for wear, damage, or corrosion.
• Maintain hydraulic fluid levels: Keep the hydraulic system topped up with the appropriate fluid.
• Perform annual inspections: Schedule annual inspections by qualified technicians to ensure the hoist is in good working order.

Conclusion

Vehicle hoists are valuable tools in the automotive industry, but they require careful handling and constant vigilance to maintain a safe working environment. By prioritising pre-use inspection, following safe operating procedures, and engaging in ongoing maintenance, we can minimise the risks associated with this heavy equipment.

Safety is a shared responsibility, and every individual involved in using vehicle hoists plays a vital role in ensuring a secure and productive working environment.

Article copyright to RUD Group. This information is accurate at the time of publication, and RUD Australia takes no responsibility for any errors, inadvertent or otherwise.