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. 

The National Bus and Coach Show 2024 will be held at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre from September 17 to 18, 2024.

This show will bring together the latest technology in the bus and coach space, including zero-emissions, bio-fuel and autonomous vehicles.

RUD is known for Endurequip Portalift, the only Australian-made, chain-driven mobile heavy vehicle hoist manufactured in Brisbane. It symbolises quality and technology for the most arduous Australian applications. In 2024, RUD is offering a high-quality German wireless mobile heavy vehicle hoist, Finkbeiner, which is reputed around the world for quality and innovation.

Some of the solutions we provide in the heavy vehicle workshop industry are:

• Endurequip - Australian-Made Chain-Driven Mobile Heavy Vehicle Hoist
• Finkbeiner - German-Made Wireless Hoist
• Heavy Vehicle Hoist Accessories
• Lifting & Lashing Solutions

Streamline your efficiency and minimise downtime with our mobile heavy vehicle hoist range, which provides a solution for every workshop application across Australia. Whether you operate a large fleet or a specialised repair shop, our heavy vehicle hoists deliver the lifting capacity and portability so your heavy vehicle servicing can operate smoothly.

We also offer a range of premium accessories designed to seamlessly integrate with your hoists, such as vehicle stands, vehicle ramps and small wheel adaptors.

Visit our booth DB33 in Hall 3 at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre from 17-18 Sep 2024 to discuss our automotive workshop solutions.

For more information on RUD Heavy Vehicle Hoist Solutions, click here to fill out our form or visit our contact page to send us an enquiry.

Part 2 of the 2-part article. Click here to read Part 1.

Continuing into Part 2 to understand the different aspects of the mobile heavy vehicle hoist industry, ensuring you choose the right hoist for your needs and budget.

Mobility and Manoeuvrability

Choose a hoist with suitable wheels and steering mechanisms to navigate your work environment efficiently, especially in tight spaces.

Both Endurequip and Finkbeiner are extremely mobile, allowing you to easily position them anywhere in the workshop for on-site repairs.

Long-Term Investment

Investing in a high-quality hoist is a long-term investment that will benefit from an extended lifespan, reduced maintenance costs, and a higher resale value.

Endurequip Portalift has a unique chain drive system featuring top-of-the-line RUD calibrated chain and pocket wheels, which lasts for decades even with frequent use. Finkbeiner has a hydraulic drive, which is virtually maintenance-free, saving money in the long run.

Manufacturer Reputation

Research the manufacturer's reputation for quality, reliability, and after-sales service. Look for companies with a track record of producing durable and dependable equipment.

RUD is a world-class engineering company that has been offering lifting, lashing, drive technology and bespoke engineered solutions in Australia for the last 40 years. Finkbeiner is reputed around the world for its state-of-the-art design, quality, and reliability, having pioneered the first hydraulic hoist in 1967.

RUD is reputed for its extensive Australia-wide network of service agents for workshop lifting solutions.

Finding the Right Partner

Once you have narrowed down your requirements, choose a reputable company that can provide expert advice and support. A reliable company or distributor can assist with choosing the right model and commissioning it with ongoing service.

Investing in the Right Mobile Heavy Vehicle Hoist

Choosing a mobile heavy vehicle hoist is not just a purchase; it's an investment in your workshop’s efficiency, safety, and profitability. While the initial cost of a high-quality hoist might seem higher, it translates into long-term benefits. Investing in a robust and reliable hoist ensures smooth operations, minimal downtime, and a safer working environment, ultimately contributing to your success.

Summary

In Australia's diverse landscape, choosing the right mobile heavy vehicle hoist is crucial. Don't be swayed by low pricing which could potentially compromise safety and performance. Invest in a high-quality hoist to reap the benefits of durability, reliability, and long-term cost savings.

Remember, a quality hoist is an investment in your business's efficiency and safety, contributing to its success for years to come.

If you want more details of our heavy vehicle lifting solutions, call Brett on 0439 707 805 or email him here.

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. 

This is a 2 part article.

Australia's vast and diverse landscape, scattered from bustling metropolises to remote outback towns, requires reliable and robust equipment. A mobile heavy vehicle hoist is an indispensable tool for maintenance, repairs, and inspections for businesses operating in the truck and bus maintenance and repair industries. However, navigating the vehicle hoist market can be challenging, with a wide choice of brands and models varying in quality and price.

This article will help you understand the different aspects of the mobile heavy vehicle hoist industry, ensuring you choose the right hoist for your needs and budget.

Understanding Australian Landscape

Australia's unique geography dictates different requirements for mobile hoists. In metros along the east and west coast, the workshop layout and space limitations can influence the choice of hoists. Also, the use of technology is more prevalent in metros, where there is a high demand for devices that work on wireless signals. In contrast, the outback demands heavy-duty models capable of handling harsh weather conditions. Hence, a robust hoist is preferred, which can withstand the rigours of the dusty and harsh outback.

A Balancing Act between Quality and Price

There are many hoist companies in Australia that differ in quality, features, and price. It is a well-known fact that most of the time, the cheapest purchase can work out more expensive in the long run. Cutting corners on quality can lead to costly consequences. While price can appear attractive during purchase, it is important to consider the build and safety features to ensure your team is confident to work on vehicles when they are hoisted in the air.

Below are some points you need to consider when choosing a mobile heavy vehicle hoist:

Lifting Capacity

Determine the maximum weight you need to lift, ensuring the hoist has sufficient capacity to handle your specific needs.

RUD Heavy Vehicle Hoists - Endurequip and Finkbeiner are built to handle a wide range of heavy vehicles. We offer lifting capacities from 30 to 170 tonnes in combination with up to 20 hoist sets.

Durable Construction

Choose hoists that are built with high-grade steel and robust components that are designed to withstand heavy loads and frequent use.

Both Endurequip (Made in Australia) and Finkbeiner (Made in Germany) hoists are built with quality steel, ensuring quality construction during manufacture. Endurequip is built to the strictest Australian standards (2550.9.1996, AS/NZS 2538:2004, ISO9001) and is the only Australian-made and Australia’s No. 1 mobile heavy vehicle hoist.

Advanced Safety Features

Check for multiple safety mechanisms, including emergency lowering systems and locking mechanisms, to ensure the safety of both personnel and equipment.

Both Endurequip and Finkbeiner include a range of safety features, such as emergency stops, remote control, and a keyed safety lock to ensure your team works safely and confidently on every heavy vehicle repair job.

To be continued ...

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. 

Part 2 of the 2-part article. Click here to read Part 1.

Load securing during transportation faces many challenges, especially when dealing with loads that have sharp edges. The sharp edges pose a risk to the integrity of lashing equipment and can potentially lead to accidents, jeopardising the safety of vehicle occupants and other road users. Hence, understanding the potential dangers associated with sharp edges is critical to ensure safe and efficient transportation. Read Part 2 below.

Reduction of Lashing Capacity

With loads where the lashing chain goes over sharp edges, we recommend reducing the Lashing Capacity (LC) by 25% or using a larger chain size. The Load Restraint Guide 2018 of the National Transport Commission (NTC) outlines the rules for lashing loads with sharp edges.

For example, if a lashing chain has a rated capacity of 10,000 daN, the effective securing capacity with a sharp corner load would be reduced by 25%, to 7500 daN.

ICE Grade 120 Lashing Chains

ICE Grade 120 lashing chain can replace a Grade 80 lashing chain of the next largest nominal thickness in direct lashing. ICE 120 is lighter than Grade 80 by 45% and has a breaking force up to 60% higher than Grade 80. This means that using an ICE 120 lashing chain can result in a large weight reduction, easier assembly, and better safety.

How can Endless Chains help?

In situations where suitable lashing points are unavailable or the existing points are unsuitable, using hooks or shackles for connecting the lashing chain can expose the connecting element to bending stresses. This can compromise the integrity of the connection and lead to potential failure.

Endless chains, designed to eliminate the need for separate hooks or shackles, provide a safer alternative. With an endless chain, the lashing capacity remains consistent throughout the entire chain loop, eliminating the potential weak points associated with hooks or shackles. Moreover, doubling up an endless chain reduces the effects of sharp edges, as the load is distributed across a larger surface area, which limits the stress on individual chain links.

ICE-Endless-Chain and ICE-Multi-shortening Claw

When combined with the ICE-Endless Chain, the ICE-Multi-shortening claw forms a closed chain system that is easily adjustable and can be opened without tools. This flexibility allows for convenient use in situations where the load's dimensions may vary. This configuration is particularly beneficial for securing loads with unconventional shapes, such as stone blocks or concrete, which may lack dedicated lashing points.

The advantages of such a configuration are:

• The endless chain can be opened without tools and
• Is adjustable in its endless chain diameter.

Conclusion:

Understanding and addressing the challenges posed by sharp edges during load securing is crucial for ensuring safe and efficient transportation. By implementing the guidelines of the Load Restraint Guide and utilising appropriate protective measures such as edge protectors and endless chains, we can effectively mitigate the risks associated with sharp edges, ensuring the integrity of the lashing equipment and the safety of all road users.

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.