Material Handling and Lifting Operations
Material Handling and Lifting Operations
ENVIRONMENTAL STANDARD
Title: Standard for Material Handling and Lifting Document Number:
ABG/CB/SHE2010.40
Operations
Issue Date: April 07, 2021
Written By: Standard, Rules and Procedure Sub committee Sept 08, 2010
Owner: Corporate Safety May 13, 2013
Approved By: OH&S Board May 13, 2013
REVISION LOG
REVISION
REASON FOR CHANGE(S): DATE:
NO:
00 New Document Oct 01, 2010
10 To address issues raised during implementing the standard and Jul 15, 2013
changing criteria for NDT inspection of lifting tools & tackles
20 Revised to align with ABG TS 32 Feb 02, 2018
30 Revised based on inputs Mar 27, 2019
40 Manual Material handling included Apr 07, 2021
DOCUMENT MANAGEMENT
SHE documents released from Central SHE Function shall be numbered as XXXX.YY. The first “X” shall be a numeric
character and can vary from 1 to 4 indicating level of document. The first level document (starting from 1XXX) shall be
SHE Policy / Principles etc. The second level document (starting from 2XXX) shall be corporate SHE standards; third level
document (starting from 3XXX) shall be Corporate SHE procedure while forth level of document shall be represented as
“4XXX” indicating forms and formats. The other three X (XXX) shall be numeric character and will vary from 001 to 999
indicating document number.
The first “Y” after dot sign (.) shall represent current revision status of document while second “Y” shall represent current
page revision. Any changes in this document can be initiated from any individual as approved by SHE Board Standards,
Rules and Procedure Subcommittee Chairman and shall be issued from office of Business Safety Head Office in
consultation with SHE Board. The revised portion of the document shall be maintained in Italic and in red color.
1.0 Introduction
Material handling and Lifting operations are integral part of any construction, manufacturing or service
activity. Any kind of material handling or lifting - either manual or using machines or tools require careful
planning and execution to manage the associated hazards. All UTCL sites conducting material handling & lifting
activities are required to establish management and operational controls to prevent incidents during material
handling and lifting operations. This document provides minimum requirement for planning, execution and
management of material handling and lifting operation.
This Technical Standard on Material Handling and Lifting Operations supports the UTCL’s Safety Policy, Safety
Principles, Life Saving Rules and Safety Management System. This Standard describes structured approach to
establish, enhance and align existing safety management processes and system to achieve the goal of “Zero
Harm” along with other business goal of zero defects, zero legal non-compliance etc. in a systematic and
auditable manner.
There are many modes and methods of conducting material handling & lifting operation. This Standard
provides the requirements to establish systems, management control and operational requirements for the
planning and execution of lifting operations to ensure safety. Any UTCL site having an existing system,
standards and procedures on safe lifting operations, shall assess practices shared in the Standard and can
improve upon them as appropriate.
2.0 Scope
This Standard applies to all sites managed by UTCL, research and development facilities, new projects, merged
and acquired entities. The Standard is relevant to all UTCL company employees and contractors, UTCL owned
or hired equipment. Conformance to the requirements of this Standard is applicable to the entire lifecycle
(including planning, assessment, exploration, evaluation, design, development, operation and closure) of a
project/business. This Standard primarily covers work activities involving manual material handling and use of
handling and lifting equipment such as forklifts, hand trucks, other manual material handling devices, mobile,
crawler, Tower, overhead travelling, jib/lorry cranes and hoists (excluding man- lift equipment, elevators,
powered industrial trucks and stackers) but does not cover details on any specific lifting equipment. Until
unless specified Mobile cranes includes Hydra.
This Standard is also not intended to provide design and technical details on any specific lifting equipment as
referred above. Sites are recommended to consult the manufacturer or supplier when more technical details
are required depending upon the equipment selected and its application. The requirement and practices
indicated in the Standard does not intend to replace any national or local legislation. In case of dispute, local
laws shall prevail.
3.0 Manual Material Handling
3.1 Definition:
Manual material handling (MMH) means manually moving or handling things by lifting, lowering, pushing,
pulling, carrying, holding or restraining. This is also the most common cause of occupational fatigue, back pain
and lower back injuries.
The following activities are commonly carried out at sites that involve manual material handling:
• Lifting, pushing or pulling heavy bags
• Carrying large, heavy sacks
• Moving large, heavy drums
• Manually carrying objects such as sheet / rod/ pipe etc. by single or multiple persons
• Transferring heavy objects
Document No: ABG/CB/SHE /2010.40
Prepared by: Standard, Rules and Procedure Subcommittee
Approved by: OH&S Board
(ABG Cement Business – Company Confidential Document)
Title: Material Handling and Lifting Operations Issue Date: April 07, 2021
Model Rule prescribed under sub-section (2) of Section 34, Factories Act, 1948
No woman or young person shall, unaided by another person, lift, carry or move by hand or on head, any
material, article, tool or appliance exceeding the maximum limit in weight set out in the following schedule: -
Person Maximum weight of material, article, tool or appliance
(a) Adult male 55 Kilograms
(b) Adult female 30 Kilograms
Figure 1. The spine has three natural curves that form an S-shape; strong muscles keep our spine in alignment.
The abdominal and back muscles maintain the spine's natural curves. Good posture involves training the body
to stand, walk, sit, and lie so that the least amount of strain is placed on the spine during movement or weight-
bearing activities. Excess body weight, weak muscles, and other forces can pull at the spine's alignment:
• An abnormal curve of the lumbar spine is lordosis, also called sway back.
• An abnormal curve of the thoracic spine is kyphosis, also called hunchback.
• An abnormal curve from side-to-side is called scoliosis.
Muscles:
The two main muscle groups that affect the spine are extensors and flexors. The extensor muscles enable us to
stand up and lift objects. The extensors are attached to the back of the spine. The flexor muscles are in the front
and include the abdominal muscles. These muscles enable us to flex, or bend forward, and are important in
lifting and controlling the arch in the lower back.
The back muscles stabilize the spine. Something as common as poor muscle tone or a large belly can pull the
entire body out of alignment. Misalignment puts incredible strain on the spine.
Vertebrae are the 33 individual bones that interlock with each other to form the spinal column. The vertebrae
are numbered and divided into five regions: cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacrum, and coccyx. Only the top 24
bones are moveable; the vertebrae of the sacrum and coccyx are fused. The vertebrae in each region have
unique features that help them perform their main functions.
Cervical (neck) - the main function of the cervical spine is to support the weight of the head (about 10 pounds).
Thoracic (mid back) - the main function of the thoracic spine is to hold the rib cage and protect the heart and
lungs.
Lumbar (low back) - the main function of the lumbar spine is to bear the weight of the body. The five lumbar
vertebrae are much larger in size to absorb the stress of lifting and carrying heavy objects.
Sacrum - the main function of the sacrum is to connect the spine to the hip bones (iliac).
Ligaments: The ligaments are strong fibrous bands that hold the vertebrae together, stabilize the spine, and
protect the discs.
Spinal cord: The spinal cord runs from the brainstem to the 1st lumbar vertebra protected within the spinal
canal. The brain sends motor messages to the limbs and body through the spinal cord allowing for movement.
Any damage to the spinal cord can result in a loss of sensory and motor function below the level of injury.
3.5 Ill-effects of adopting wrong way of manual material handling:
• Strains, sprains and musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) from lifting loads improperly or from forceful
exertions while carrying loads that are either too large or too heavy.
• Fractures and bruises caused by being struck by materials or by being caught in pinch points, and
• Cuts and bruises caused by falling materials that have been improperly stored or by incorrectly cutting
ties or other securing devices.
1. The work environment and performance of work contribute significantly to the condition; and/or
2. The condition is made worse or persists longer due to work conditions.
Examples of work conditions that may lead to WMSD include routine lifting of heavy objects, daily exposure to
whole body vibration, routine overhead work, work with the neck in chronic flexion position, or performing
repetitive forceful tasks. This report identified positive evidence for relationships between work conditions and
MSDs of the neck, shoulder, elbow, hand and wrist, and back.
MSDs are musculoskeletal system and connective tissue diseases and disorders when the event or exposure
leading to the case is bodily reaction (e.g., bending, climbing, crawling, reaching, twisting), overexertion, or
repetitive motion. MSDs do not include disorders caused by slips, trips, falls, or similar incidents. Examples of
MSDs include:
• Sprains, strains, and tears
• Back pain
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Hernia
Musculoskeletal disorders are associated with high costs to employers such as absenteeism, lost productivity,
and increased health care, disability, and worker’s compensation costs. MSD cases are more severe than the
average nonfatal injury or illness.
Examples of common WMSDs are discussed below:
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS): CTS is defined as a disorder associated with the peripheral nervous system, which
includes nerves and ganglia located outside the spinal cord and brain. Carpal tunnel syndrome is the
compression of the median nerve at the wrist, which may result in numbness, tingling, weakness, or muscle
atrophy in the hand and fingers.
Back injury and back pain: Symptoms of back pain are among the top ten reasons for medical visits. For 5% to
10% of patients, the back pain becomes chronic.
Arthritis:
The term arthritis is used to describe more than 100 rheumatic diseases and conditions that affect joints, the
tissues which surround the joint and other connective tissue. The pattern, severity and location of symptoms
can vary depending on the specific form of the disease. Arthritis is a concern in the workplace both because it
may develop from work-related conditions and because it may require worksite adaptations for employees with
limitations or disabilities.
Common features of the occupations with high likelihood of arthritis are physically demanding/heavy labor
tasks, lifting or carrying heavy loads, exposure to vibration, high risk of joint or tissue injury, and prolonged
periods of working in awkward or unnatural postures such as kneeling and crawling.
3.6 Ergonomics:
Ergonomics is the science of fitting workplace conditions and job demands to the capability of the working
population. The goal of ergonomics is to reduce stress and eliminate injuries and disorders associated with the
overuse of muscles, bad posture, and repeated tasks. A workplace ergonomics program can aim to prevent or
control injuries and illnesses by eliminating or reducing worker exposure to WMSD risk factors using
engineering and administrative controls. PPE is also used in some instances, but it is the least effective
workplace control to address ergonomic hazards. Risk factors include awkward postures, repetition, material
Document No: ABG/CB/SHE /2010.40
Prepared by: Standard, Rules and Procedure Subcommittee
Approved by: OH&S Board
(ABG Cement Business – Company Confidential Document)
Title: Material Handling and Lifting Operations Issue Date: April 07, 2021
handling, force, mechanical compression, vibration, temperature extremes, glare, inadequate lighting, and
duration of exposure. For example, employees who spend many hours at a workstation may develop
ergonomic-related problems resulting in musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Working within the power zone
(above knee, below shoulder, close to body) is ergonomically recommended.
• Use of administrative controls (changes in work practices and management policies): Administrative
control strategies are policies and practices that reduce WMSD risk, but they do not eliminate workplace
hazards. Although engineering controls are preferred, administrative controls can be helpful as temporary
Document No: ABG/CB/SHE /2010.40
Prepared by: Standard, Rules and Procedure Subcommittee
Approved by: OH&S Board
(ABG Cement Business – Company Confidential Document)
Title: Material Handling and Lifting Operations Issue Date: April 07, 2021
measures until engineering controls can be implemented or when engineering controls are not technically
feasible. Some examples include:
1. Reducing shift length or limiting the amount of overtime
2. Changes in job rules and procedures such as scheduling more breaks to allow for rest and recovery.
3. Rotating workers through jobs that are physically tiring.
4. Training in the recognition of risk factors for WMSDs and instructions in work practices and
techniques that can ease the task demands or burden (e.g., stress and strain)
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE): Using the following personal protective equipment prevents injuries
when manually moving materials: -
1. Hand and forearm protection such as gloves for loads with sharp or rough edges. If you wear
gloves, choose the size that fits properly. Depending on the material the gloves are made of and
the number of pairs worn at once, more force may be needed to grasp and hold objects. For
example, wearing a single pair of heat-resistant gloves can reduce your grip strength up to 40
percent.
2. Eye protection
3. Appropriate Steel toed safety shoes to avoid slips, trips, or falls.
Hand trucks are for moving loads over short distances (typically less than 100m), and shall be specially designed
for lifting and moving packages or pallets e.g., hand pallet trucks. In the latter case, the facility to jack up the
truck shall be incorporated. Hand pallet trucks are suitable for loads up to 1500kg.
Hand pallet trucks must be clearly marked with their SWL and have an in-date certificate of inspection / test
from a third-party competent person as per Factories Act & Rules. Hand trucks must not be used on sloping
steel surfaces such as ramps and particularly not on long inclines (maximum recommended gradient 1:15). If
there is no alternative, consideration should be given to using trucks fitted with brakes. Hand trucks must not
be used on uneven or soft surfaces. Such surfaces, e.g., cracked concrete, distorted tarmac, sand and grassy
areas, increase both the physical effort required and the risk of toppling.
B. Forklift trucks:
Operations: Only forklift truck operators who have been properly trained and certified (valid license from RTO)
shall operate a forklift truck.
Before using a forklift truck, operators must check the truck and associated equipment to ensure they are in
safe and proper condition. Operators must ensure audible and visual warning equipment is working correctly
before using the forklift.
Parking: When unattended, forklift trucks must be left on even ground with the fork arms tilted forward and
lowered to rest on the ground. The engine must be switched off, the key removed, and the handbrake applied.
Ignition keys must be kept in a safe place and only issued to authorized operators for the duration of the duty
period or task. When not in use, forklift trucks must be parked in secure areas.
Operating Areas: Care must be taken at all times during forklift truck operations to avoid pedestrians, other
vehicles and hazards within their area of operations. Forklift truck operators must only drive-in areas where
they are authorized to do so. Forklift trucks must only be used in areas where there is enough room for safe
operation. Particular care must be taken to ensure that forklift trucks used in aisles have enough room to
circulate and maneuver either loaded or empty.
Forklift trucks must not be operated on excessive gradients. (In general, forklift trucks should be driven
forwards up a slope, backwards down a slope and in line with the incline. It shall be necessary to raise the forks
slightly at the bottom of a slope to avoid grounding.)
Stability of Forklift Trucks Loads and Handling: Forklift trucks must only be used to lift loads within their
certified capacity. Loads must be correctly placed and secured on the forks to avoid tipping forwards or
sideways. Wherever possible, forklift trucks must be driven with the forks in the lowered position and with the
mast slightly tilted back. The forks should be so adjusted that the fork heels should never touch the ground.
Movement with loads in excessively raised positions must be avoided to minimize the danger of toppling,
especially on uneven surfaces and while cornering. Forklift trucks must only be used for loads which can be
carried safely on the forks or attachments fitted.
General Operations: Operators must not carry passengers anywhere on the forklift truck. Operators must not
allow pedestrians to walk underneath the load. Forklift trucks must only be driven in a direction where visibility
is not blocked. Stacking and un-stacking on inclines must never be attempted. Rapid acceleration, hard braking
and sharp cornering which increase the risk of load tipping must be avoided. Operators must exercise caution
and drive slowly on slopes, uneven and damaged surfaces. Care must be taken when operating in proximity to
pedestrians and other vehicles.
C. Lifting Beams & hooks:
A lifting beam is a simple design of a long I-beam with a link or eye on the top to allow for connection to the
crane or other lifting machine's hook. It also has two or more connection points on the under where the load
is connected.
Lifting beams are excellent for general purpose lifting, as well as for lifting weak or flexible loads that require
the additional support of other equipment. An additional benefit of a lift beam is the ability to lift more than
one load at a time since it is typically designed with two or more connection points.
D. Crowbar:
This is a metal tool used mainly to pry things open. It is usually hook shaped. Sometimes the bottom is slightly
curved to allow for better leverage. Some crowbars have a notched an end for removing nails. It is used as a
lever either to force apart two objects or to remove nails. Common uses for larger crowbars are removing nails,
prying apart boards, and generally breaking things.
E. Plate Clamp:
A plate clamp can be used to safely and securely move plates horizontally or vertically. Used with a crane hook,
the clamp’s cam and jaw mechanism locks the plate in place. Although one can be used to move certain
lightweight loads, plate lifting clamps are generally used in pairs in order to lift and transfer loads.
F. Wheelbarrow:
A wheelbarrow is a compound machine that is popularly used to carry heavy loads. It has two simple machines,
the wheel and axle and the lever that helps to makes the load lighter and simpler to move around. When you
pick up the handle of the wheelbarrow and raise it, you are applying effort to the lever. When you apply force
to the lever, the wheel will start rolling. The axle on the other hand, will increase the force — making it easier
to push the load. This enables the wheelbarrow to carry heavier loads and move easily from one place to
another.
G. Drum handler is a mechanical equipment that is used to handle and transport cylindrical module such
as steel drums, barrels, plastic drums and fiber drums. Unlike the forklift attachments, mobile drum handlers
have built in wheels so one can easily maneuver it anywhere.
H. Gas Cylinder trolleys are to be used for handing and transporting gas cylinders securely in an upright
position.
work practices. In addition, workers should be able to recognize the methods for eliminating—or at least
minimizing—the occurrence of such incidents.
4.0 Material Lifting Operations using mechanical devices such as cranes, hoists, chain pulley blocks etc.
UltraTech company activities, projects and managed operations which undertake lifting operations shall
establish and maintain management system and procedures to ensure that:
A suitable lifting safety program/ safe system of work is developed consisting planning and execution of lifting
operations.
a. Risk assessments and permit to work are required for all lifting operation.
b. Lifting Plan with clear control measures is documented, communicated and executed.
c. The worksite is physically safe for the lifting operation e.g., there is no physical obstruction in the
path of the load.
d. The lifting equipment is correctly selected, tested and certified in accordance with legislative
requirements and technical standards.
e. The personnel deployed as part of the lifting team are suitably trained, competent and certified.
f. Only competent contractors are used, and all lifting work is appropriately supervised.
g. All lifting equipment and accessories are tested prior to commissioning and periodically by
competent persons for rated capacity and records are maintained.
h. All incidents, accidents, near misses, equipment failure or damage are reported in ENABLON or
MySetu.
The key functional aspects of safe lifting management program are schematically presented below:
For further derails See Annex A: Example of Lift Categorization based on Routine and Non-Routine Lifts. Lifts
not listed and approved as Routine shall by default be Non routine activities.
UTCL sites shall ensure that prior to undertaking any lifting operation; a risk assessment is conducted to ensure
the selection of appropriate control measures. Sites may not be required to conduct risk assessment for
routine lift operations every time as long activity is repetitive in nature and involves loads that are similar in
shape, size and weight. However, sites shall conduct risk assessment for all non-routine operations each time.
The risk assessment shall consider, but is not limited to, the following issues:
a. Competency requirements of operators/ signaller/ slingers.
b. Lifting equipment and accessories testing and certification requirements.
c. Unauthorized use of lifting equipment.
d. Failure of lifting equipment or lifting accessories.
e. A load being dropped whilst suspended.
f. Unstable ground conditions: collision of lifting equipment where two or more devices are
being used in close proximity to each other.
g. Visibility.
h. Lifting of people.
i. Communication.
j. Fatigue.
k. Employees being struck by the load or lifting equipment.
l. Striking overhead power cables or other services.
m. Falls during the erection of cranes.
n. Manual handling risks associated with lifting and moving heavy equipment.
o. Health risks from oils, solvents and greases; and
p. Contact with moving machinery parts during maintenance.
q. The results of risk assessment shall be considered in selecting the fit for purpose lifting
equipment and developing the safe lifting plan.
Based on the above factors UTCL sites shall ensure that the selection of lifting equipment is carried out
following the principles of risk assessment and the best option for each lifting operation. Reference shall be
made to the relevant International Standards/ Code of Practice for details of common types of lifting
equipment (cranes and hoists) and their operational characteristic. Refer Annex B: Common Types of Lifting
Equipment and Annex C: Technical Standards on Lifting. Sites shall ensure that the selected lifting equipment
meets the overall requirements of the planned lifting operations.
In addition to safety requirement in para 4.6 selection criteria following requirements shall be ensured before
hiring a Crane:
h. Meeting all the standard safety requirements
i. Healthiness of crane
j. Aging of crane 1) less than 20 years for crane below 50T & 2) less than 25 years for cranes
above 50T
k. Unit representative to inspect the crane before mobilizing.
e. Level Indicator
Where fitted, level indicators shall be used in accordance with the instruction manual and maintained in good
working order.
f. Anemometer
Anemometers, or other wind speed measuring devices, shall have their indicators mounted in clear view of
the crane (except Hydra) driver or where appropriate, the person controlling the lift being undertaken. The
correct operation of these devices shall be regularly verified, and they shall be maintained in satisfactory
condition.
g. Fire Extinguisher
Fire extinguisher shall be provided in the operator’s cabin.
Lifting plan shall be reviewed and approved by FLE / Initiator trained and aware of Material lifting operation
requirement as per standard Annexure D.
5.9 Criterion for authorizing crane operator who shall be authorized by FH (T)
1. Qualification & Experience: Should preferably be with middle level school education but must have
minimum 5 years of relevant experience as a crane operator with valid license and should be able to
read load chart. Crane operator appointed before 2011 having lower qualification shall be assessed
for capability of reading load chart and crane operation may be authorized if found adequate by FH T
or Equivalent.
2. S/He should have HMV license from state authority.
3. Knowledge: He should have basic knowledge of all safety precaution & safety gadgets used in plants.
He should be aware of risk analysis & risk involved in the job and should have sufficient knowledge for
reading load chart, rigging plans, multi crane lift, Do ‘s & Don ‘ts guidelines and signaling.
4. Skill: He should know the machine well. He must understand its functions and limitations as well as its
particular operating characteristics. The operator must understand the correct meaning of all notes
and warnings and be able to calculate or determine the crane's actual net capacity for possible
configuration of the machine.
5. Healthiness: Physical fitness to be checked specially for good eyesight.
6. Safety: Operator should be aware with general safety rule for the job to be done. He should be aware
of safe practices in crane operation & rigging activity. Mobile crane operators shall successfully
complete a test that meets mandatory site requirements. Normal and emergency operations,
load/capacity chart use, and crane signals shall be covered in the test. Mobile crane operators shall
pass a medical examination given by a health- care professional at least once every one year. Eye
examination should be once in 6 months. Site management may elect to specify a more frequent
medical examination.
4. Flagman should be aware with general safety rule for the job to be done. He should be aware of safe
practices in crane operation & rigging activity.
▪ Mobile crane flagman shall successfully complete a trade test that meets mandatory site
requirements.
▪ Normal and emergency operations, crane signals shall be covered in the test.
▪ Mobile crane flagman shall pass a medical examination given by a health-care professional
at least once every one year. Eye examination should be carried out in every 6 months
(reference various state factory rules requirement).
▪ While marching the crane, the Flagman must maintain a safe distance of 10 feet with cranes
and must be in continuing contact with crane operator.
▪ He must be visible to his crane operator as well as to passing by Vehicles.
▪ Not to use cell phone during crane operation.
Flagman not required for Hydras movement considering marching not allowed with load.
o Placing or erection of the crane in its working position; and o Dismantling and
removal of the crane following completion of lifting operations.
e. Ensure Area/ground preparation is done wherever required in consultation with site civil engineer
if crane is required to be positioned on soft soil. It is to be done in consultation with Site - Civil
Engineer if crane is required to position on soft soil.
f. Distance from excavation pit shall be based on Load, type of soil and shall be established in
consultation with Site Civil Engineer. However, the minimum distance of siting of crane shall be
1.5 times depth of excavation.
g. Wherever needed soil compaction shall be undertaken and steel plates shall be used to provide a
firm base to lifting equipment/crane.
The minimum distance of lifting equipment, load line, or load (including rigging and lifting accessories) from
energized power line is shown in Table 4.1 below as recommended under Table A of OSHA CFR 1926.1408):
The authorized person shall ensure that the local offices of the concerned Electricity Department/ Authorities
are consulted if the crane is to be used within 15 m of overhead lines on steel towers, or 9 m of overhead lines
on wood, concrete or steel poles. This includes not only the crane but also the jib at its maximum length. All
distances shall be measured at ground level from a position estimated by eye to be vertically under the
outermost conductor at a tower or pole.
Any potential loading above 75% (without outrigger) shall be approved by Critical Lift group irrespective of
weigh of load. For Cranes with outriggers fully extended, EOTs, other electrical hoists the safe limit operation
will be 85% of SWL.
No capacity loading above 100% shall be allowed even under critical lift condition. Safe Load Indicator is
mandatory for all Mobile cranes including Hydras. In new installations of EOTs and Hoists above 10T, site
shall also ensure installation of SLI (Old installations before release of this standard will be allowed to have
EOTs without SLI).
As far as possible personnel lifting to be avoided. If unavoidable the capacity loading must be below 50% of
lifting capacity of the crane. Cage / Man basket used shall have specific identification no, SWL marked and
certified by competent person as per National/State regulation.
UTCL sites shall also refer the maximum permissible load ratings based on the manufacturer’s
recommendations.
b. A crane shall not be operated if it does not have the facility of automatic braking (in case of power
failure).
c. Barricading/ warnings signs shall be provided to prevent moving below suspended load or the boom
areas of potential impact.
d. Cranes shall not be operated between sunset and sunrise without adequate lighting provision.
e. A standard code of hand signals shall be displayed in cabin and near the working area. Operator shall
respond to signals given by only authorized persons. The person directing crane movements (slingers
or signaller) shall be easily identifiable to the crane driver by wearing high visibility clothing or by other
means.
f. All personnel shall wear personal protective equipment including safety gloves, helmets, safety
spectacles, safety harness, high visibility vests, and safety shoes appropriate for the conditions of the
site.
g. Lifting person shall ensure that no person shall remain in line of fire or under lifted load anytime. Until
unless the slings are totally free (hanging on hook), the crane shall be considered under load.
Lifting Capacity of Crane: It is the permissible rated capacity of crane at particular position as per load chart
for particular crane given by OEM.
Total weight: It is sum of the weight of the load and weight of hook block, sling and all other attachments.
Capacity loading: It will be calculated by dividing the “Total weight” with the “Lifting Capacity of Crane” in
percentage. Example-
SWL of Equipment – 10 T
Total weight (of Load to be lifted) – 6 T.
Lifting Capacity of crane (at X Meter boom & Y Meter radius) as per chart – 8 T
Capacity Loading = 75%
Inspection: Annual
▪ Mobile crane equipment shall undergo periodic inspection by the competent person at least annually
( Annex – F ) .
▪ For company-owned mobile cranes, the annual inspection records shall be available on site.
▪ For equipment owned, leased, or rented by a contractor, the periodic inspection record shall be
reviewed prior to use.
▪ NDT (MPI) inspection of crane critical parts (hook, pin or others as necessary) shall be done once in
two years or earlier based on physical appearance.
Whenever lifting equipment has been subjected to high dynamic loading, e.g., jarring or working stuck pipe,
immediate inspection is required. This also applies to the derrick or mast after such operations.
Major inspection as per the manufacturers Operation and Maintenance (O&M) manual to be identified by unit
and mentioned in Site specific procedure.
Inspection of Wire Rope Slings, Hooks, Shackles and Winches
Slings
Slings should be tested and tagged in line with requirement of state factory rule or on yearly basis whichever
is earlier and marked with SWL and inspection date or color coded as per Unit color code for year. They shall
be visually inspected by a competent member of staff before all lifting operations.
Winches
❖ Check condition of wire - look for kinks, broken wires, flat spots, visible core, etc. Ensure that wire runs
freely in the mast.
❖ Check condition of eye - A thimble should be used. Check condition, spacing and correct installation of
bulldog clips.
❖ Check condition and operation of brake - brake rims and bands shall be in good condition and the
linkage operating freely. Avoid bands becoming contaminated with oil or mud or water.
❖ Check hook and safety latch are in good condition and the swivel is operating freely.
❖ Perform MPI Inspections on Winch pedestals and securing mechanisms (bolts or welds) once in year.
❖ Winches with a freewheeling device should not be used.
❖ The safe working load of the wire and the winch securing mechanism shall be greater than the
maximum winch.
pull (stall at overload).
Hook
❖ Prior to initial use, all new and repaired hooks shall be inspected by a qualified inspector to ensure their
compliance with the applicable provisions of ASME B30.10, Section 10-1.2. Dated and signed inspection
records shall be kept on file and shall be readily available.
❖ Inspection procedure and record keeping requirements for hooks in regular service shall be governed
by requirements for the kind of equipment in which they are used.
Daily Inspection
a. Operators or other designated personnel shall visually inspect hooks for deficiencies such as the
following each day or prior to use if the hook has not been in regular service (records are not
required):
1. Cracks, nicks, and gouges.
2. Deformation.
3. Damage from chemicals.
4. Latch engagement, damage to or malfunction of latch (if provided).
5. Evidence of heat damage.
b. A designated person shall examine deficiencies and determine whether they constitute a safety
hazard and
whether a more detailed inspection is required.
A. Periodic Inspection
A qualified inspector shall perform a complete inspection annually.
a. Hooks having any of the following conditions shall be removed from service until repaired or
replaced:
1. Deformation – Any visibly apparent bend or twist from the plane of the unbent hook.
2. Throat opening – Any distortion causing an increase in throat opening exceeding 5 percent,
not to exceed ¼ inch (or as recommended by the manufacturer).
Following is the standard chart indicating discarding criteria.
3. Wear – Any wear exceeding 10 percent (or as recommended by the manufacturer) of the
original section dimension of the hook or its load pin.
4. Cracks.
5. If a latch is provided and it becomes inoperative because of wear or deformation or fails to
fully bridge the throat opening, the hook shall be removed from service until the device has
been repaired or replaced and the throat opening has been assessed as described above.
6. Any self-locking hook that does not lock.
b. If hooks are painted, a visual inspection should take the coating into consideration. Surface
variations can disclose evidence of heavy or severe service. The surface condition may call for
stripping the paint in such instances.
c. Hooks shall undergo NDT once in two years.
d. Dated and signed inspection records shall be kept on file and shall be readily available.
10.1 Monitoring
For each lifting operation various parameters shall be monitored. The following list provides generic
monitoring parameters.
1. A safe lifting and hoisting management program with adequate resources and management oversight
shall be developed and implemented to meet the objective/s of the monitoring program.
2. Certificates of lifting equipment and accessories (wire ropes/ chains, pulley blocks, etc.).
3. Lifting team competency checks and certifications\.
4. Lifting plan.
5. Inspection checklists specific to type of lifting and hoisting equipment; and
6. Incidents and accidents involving lifting equipment.
10.2 Reporting
UTCL sites shall maintained documented information for the following:
1. Records of risk assessment, lifting plan, technical specifications, operational manuals, record of
significant repairs, test and inspection records shall be maintained.
2. These records shall be maintained by the site for one year (unless otherwise required by the local
regulations).
3. Actions identified from inspection/ program audits shall be tracked and closed-out.
4. All incidents, accidents, near miss related material lift shall be reported and recorded in Enablon or
MySetu.
5. Each UTCL site shall report the performance of their KPI’s in ENABLON (Sustainability Information
Management System) at appropriate frequency as defined by the ABG Sustainability Cell.
10.3 Verification
UTCL sites (Units Champion team) shall conduct annual internal assurance program to verify compliance and
performance of their safe lifting and hoisting management program. Refer Annex G: Self- Assessment
Checklist for Material Lifting Safety (Crane and Hoists). Sites shall also plan load tests, periodic examination/
testing of lifting equipment and accessories by competent agencies recognized by government agencies. The
frequency of these examination and lifting safety audit shall be dependent on the regulatory requirements or
once in a year, whichever is stringent.
o Check & confirm suitability of crane given in request as per load chart and allot in availability slot.
▪ Conduct periodical audit to verify compliance to daily checklist.
o To hold and/or check documents such as PUC/ RTO registration / Insurance certificate/certificate
from competent person/driving license of crane operator.
▪ Repair & maintenance of all cranes for smooth & safe operation and to ensure that record
is maintained.
▪ Predictive & proactive maintenance of all cranes for smooth & safe operation and to
ensure that record is maintained.
▪ Availability of cranes for allotment
▪ Assist for lift operations in plant.
Concerned Engineer
❖ Check suitability of crane referring to load chart & raise the request in Prescribed Format
including all details. Load chart will be provided by the crane supplier / contractor. For in-house
cranes load charts shall be maintained.
❖ Ensure Area/ground preparation is done wherever required in consultation with site civil
Engineer.
❖ Ensure completion of mandatory requirements such as vehicle entry permit, risk assessment,
equipment handling check list as per Annexure - D.
❖ Ensure use of tested lifting tool-tackles of appropriate capacity (sling / synthetic belt / D-
shackle etc.) ❖ Ensure toolbox talk before all movements & rigging operations.
❖ To discuss rigging plan with the foreman, signal man & crane operator for safe execution of
job.
❖ Ensure involvement of lifting supervisor in above process and risk assessment.
13.0 RACI
The roles and responsibilities to implement this standard is outlined below:
Crane
Concerned Champion Critical Lift Unit Corporate Unit Head
Engineer (Qualified Person) Group Safety Safety
R: Responsible
People who are expected to actively participate in the activity and contribute to the best of their
abilities.
A: Accountable
The person who is ultimately responsible for the results.
Document No: ABG/CB/SHE /2010.40
Prepared by: Standard, Rules and Procedure Subcommittee
Approved by: OH&S Board
(ABG Cement Business – Company Confidential Document)
Title: Material Handling and Lifting Operations Issue Date: April 07, 2021
C: Consulted
People who have a particular expertise and can contribute to specific decisions.
I: Informed
People who are affected by the activity/decision and therefore need to be kept informed, but do
not participate in the effort.
16.0 Review
This Standard shall be reviewed annually to determine its accuracy and relevance with regard to changes
in regulations, international standards and guidelines. Should such changes be identified, a brief
Addendum to the Standard shall be prepared outlining the change and its key requirements. The
Standard shall be revised once in every 5 years.
17.0 Annexures
Mobile Cranes- These cranes consist of a jib mounted on’ a purpose designed chassis either road wheel
mounted, or crawler tracked. They may be permitted, when specified, to move on 'their wheels or tracks
when carrying loads or may require the use of stabilizers or outriggers to permit the lifting of their design
loads. Larger mobile cranes may consist -of separate units which when assembled for crane duties
operate on a fixed base. Enhanced duties may be obtained in special cases by the attachment of
additional structural members and counterweight or by mounting the mobile crane on a special base or
track, or by a combination of both. The common type of mobile crane include Tyre mounted mobile
crane (telescopic boom/ lattice boom); Crawler mounted crane; Rough Terrain Crane. Aerial man lifts
etc.
Lorry Loaders (Jib Type)-This type of lorry loader consists of a jib crane mounted on a load carrying
vehicle primarily intended for handling loads on or off the vehicle to which it is attached.
Tower Cranes-These cranes consist of a jib mounted at an elevated level on a vertical tower, the jib being
capable of slewing through 3600 or more. Tower cranes may be mounted on a fixed base, crawler tracks,
rails or wheels or may be mounted onto another structure.
Derrick Cranes- These cranes consist of a jib which is supported by ropes from a mast which in turn is
supported either by guy ropes, stays or other means.
Overhead Travelling Cranes (Electrical Overhead Travelling)- These cranes consist of a bridge girder or
girders mounted on end carriages housing the long travel wheels which travel along a gantry track. The
girders support a crab fitted with hoisting machinery having a hook, magnet or grab and traversing
machinery. The crab may support a fixed or slewing under hung jib or mast. The crane is normally
operated from a cabin either suspended from the main girders or attached to the crab.
Container Handling Cranes-These cranes are specifically designed for the purpose of handling containers
and incorporate a purpose-built spreader in their construction.
Hoist is a device used for lifting or lowering a load by means of a drum or lift-wheel around which rope
or chain wraps. The basic hoist has two important characteristics to define it:
Lifting medium and power type. The lifting medium is either wire rope, wrapped around a drum, or load-
chain, raised by a pulley with a special profile to engage the chain. Chain Pulley Block is designed for
lifting loads vertically and should not be used for pulling horizontally or at an angle.
The more commonly used hoist in today's worldwide market is an electrically powered hoist. These are
either the chain type or the wire rope type.
Winch: electric operated/ pneumatically operated.
➢ SAFETY CHECKS –
HOOKS
DECRIPTION DETAILS
MAIN HOOK AUXILIARY HOOK
01. Identification Mark
a) Nos. of Pulley
b) Play in Pulley
HOIST
MAIN HOIST AUXILIARY HOIST
01. Wire Rope Diameter a). Nominal
b). Measured
a) Structure
b) Weld Joints Beams/Angles
02. Rail Condition
a) Parallelism
b) Noise
03. Cross Trolley Platform and Trolley Wheel
Condition
04. Long Travel End Truck and Truck Wheel
Condition
05. Buffers of the End Truck
POWER TRANSMISSION
01. Gear Box Condition
02. Axle & Coupling
a). Alignment
b). Guarding
WALKWAY
01. Ladder to Walkway
02. Railing on Ladder
03. Walkway on The Crane
04. Railing on Walkway
05. Railing / Lifeline along Rails
ELECTRICALS
01. Motor Condition
02. Earthing to All Electrical Equipment’s
03. Main Switch Condition
04. Emergency Stop
05. Weather protection
06. All Controls and Panel Board
07. Siren, Fan, Lightings Etc.
08. Corner Switches
09. Rubber Mats Near Control panel
10. DSL Indicator Lamps.
OTHER GENERAL OBSERVATION
01.Operator’s cabin Condition
a) Sitting Arrangement
b) Lights, Fan, A/C
c) Control Levers & Panel Board
d) Glass & Beading
e) Communicating Equipment’s
f) Fire Extinguisher
02. Electrical Cable Handling Trolley
03. Festoon Cable Handling Trolley
04. Guards to all moving equipment’s
05. Housekeeping nearby to crane .
PROOF LOAD TEST REPORT
➢ Tested Load (Proof Load):
➢ Thorough visual examination shall be done after load test.:
➢ Any defects observed after proof load test:
OPERATIONAL TEST REPORT
A). Long Travel
B). Cross Travel
C). Hoisting
D). Lowering
REMARKS: -
Annex - I
18.0 Appendices
Appendix 1: Definitions
Static capacity is the rated capacity of the equipment based on the safety factors and
safe design of its components.
Dynamic capacity is the rated capacity of the equipment with deductions, depending
on the number of applied forces, from the structural capacity. It allows for dynamic
loading introduced into the machine or its components due to accelerating or
decelerating forces, the effects of vessel movements, etc. Thus, applies to all loads
lifted from or to a stationary vessel to a moving or floating vessel or from a floating
vessel to another floating vessel or structure.
Cranes mounted on fixed structures have a formula for deductions for all water lifts,
which shall be available to the operator and lift designer.
Certification Certification is an approved and legally compliant method of checking and providing
written evidence that a piece of equipment has been examined and meets required
standards.
Wire rope certifications prove that the materials are as stated and have been tested
to meet the standards indicated.
Competence In a broad sense, a competent person is an individual who, by way of training and/or
experience, is knowledgeable of applicable standards, is capable of identifying
workplace hazards relating to the specific operation, is designated by the employer,
and has authority to take appropriate actions
Crawler Crane A "crawler crane" consists of a rotating superstructure with power plant, operating
machinery, and boom, mounted on a base, equipped with crawler treads for travel.
Its function is to hoist and swing loads at various radii.
Counterweight The "counterweight" is a weight used to supplement the weight of the machine in
providing stability for lifting working loads.