Lifting gear is essential for any construction site in the UK. Hoists, forklifts, crane attachments, and other construction lifting machines and accessories help safely move materials to where they need to go.
Material handling remains one of the biggest hazards on a typical work site. Workers who need to manually lift or pull heavy loads may suffer from back pain and other musculoskeletal conditions. Manual lifting can also increase the risk of accidents and injuries.
Material lifting for construction should include the use of industrial equipment. Hoist lift construction equipment and other machinery reduce the burden on your workers. Construction lifting equipment offers a safe method for moving heavy materials. The typical forklift can carry up to 5500 pounds (2500 kilograms) while the average worker can only lift about 150 pounds (68 kilograms).
Providing workers with safer processes can dramatically reduce the risk of injuries. The cost of construction accidents worldwide is equal to about 4% of the total global gross domestic product.
To increase the safety and productivity of your worksite, explore the different types of lifting equipment in construction. Learn more about the uses for construction lifting equipment and how to select the right machinery and accessories.
Best Types of Material Handling and Lifting Equipment for Construction Sites
Material lifting for construction often requires the use of specific construction lifting equipment. Here are the most used types of lifting equipment in construction:
- Chain blocks and slings
- Hoists
- Scissor lifts and tables
- Forklift accessories
- Wheelie bins tippers
- Crane attachments
- Pallet trucks and lifting jacks
- Winches
1. Chain Blocks and Slings
The chain sling is one of the most durable types of lifting equipment in construction. It offers a more secure solution compared to nylon web slings or polyester slings. The chain is typically used with a hoist or other construction lifting equipment to lift loads between 70,000 and 180,000 pounds.
2. Hoists
Hoists are medium-duty construction lifting devices designed for lifting supplies and tools vertically. The hoist is typically attached to scaffolding or mounted overhead. A cable extends from the hoist, which may be fitted with a hook or other accessory for securing the load.
3. Scissor Lifts and Tables
A scissor lift is an aerial work platform. The lift typically sits on a motorized vehicle or wheeled chassis. A bucket or platform sits on top of the scissoring lift. A scissor lift is useful for providing temporary access to taller areas, as it can easily lift workers and supplies to the desired height.
4. Forklift Accessories
Forklift construction lifting accessories extend the functionality and safety of the forklift. Common examples include forklift jibs and hooks. A forklift jib has a hook at the end for quickly attaching and securing a load. The hook can also provide an alternative to using a hoist or a crane for lifting supplies to shorter heights.
5. Wheelie Bin Tippers
Wheelie bin tippers provide an efficient option for maintaining a cleaner worksite, as they simplify the process of emptying wheelie bins. The tipper holds the wheelie bin and allows workers to manually lift and empty into larger skip bins or receptacles. This saves time and protects workers against strenuous lifting.
6. Crane Attachments
Crane attachments are used for construction lifting when you need to move heavy loads to great heights. They come in a variety of configurations and sizes to grab and hold loads of varying sizes and shapes. You can use wide tongs to grab girders or a hook to grab a bag or sling.
7. Pallet Trucks and Lifting Jacks
Pallet trucks and lifting jacks are manually operated construction lifting devices. The front of the device often has a forked protrusion resembling the front of a forklift. The pronged protrusion is designed to slide into the sides of a pallet. The operator then uses a hydraulic crank or plunger to lift the load.
8. Winches
Winches are often used in situations where you do not need overhead construction lifting machines, such as a hoist or crane. The winch has a drum with a cable or rope. The cable or rope can be extended or retracted to pull heavy loads horizontally. It may also be used with a pulley to lift items vertically.
Guide to Choosing the Best Lifting Equipment for Construction
Selecting the right construction lifting accessories and equipment depends on several details:
- Process and materials
- Environment
- Height
- Load weight
- Hardware and accessories
- Worker safety
You must first consider the type of construction work and materials used. Some construction lifting equipment is better suited for specific tasks. While a crane can lift building materials and tools, a hoist may be more efficient in certain cases.
The environment and size of the site also influence the selection of construction lifting equipment. A small work site may require you to select a smaller or more compact lifting device to ensure that the load can reach its intended destination.
The height that you need to reach is another important factor. For example, a scaffold hoist may only reach up to 25 meters. Industrial overhead cranes can reach heights of 80 meters. The construction lifting equipment that you select must also support the weight of the loads that you plan to transport. The maximum weight capacity of the construction lifting equipment should typically exceed the expected weight of the load.
You may also need various hardware and accessories to secure the load to the construction lifting equipment, such as ropes, slings, bolts, hooks, and eyebolts. Above all else, consider the safety of your workers. Follow all industry standards and government regulations.
Conclusion
In the end, construction lifting equipment is necessary for almost any construction project. If you want to increase the safety and productivity of your workers, give them access to the right construction lifting accessories and equipment.
Our vast selection of construction lifting equipment ensures that you can save time and make your construction site more efficient. Explore multiple types of lifting equipment in construction. From chain blocks and slings to hoists and crane attachments, we offer high-quality construction lifting equipment to suit any task.
If you have any questions about choosing the best types of lifting equipment in construction, do not hesitate to contact us.