Hoisting guidelines – by YBE (NBE) and HSE

The hoisting guidelines below and in the link have been developed by Yorkshire Back Exchange (YBE), (part of National Back Exchange – NBE) in conjunction with the Health & Safety Executive (HSE).

The aim of the guidelines is to ensure safe working practices of hoisting in all service areas.

A suitable and sufficient written risk assessment must have been completed in accordance with the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 and an up to date handling/hoisting plan must be in place.

The written risk assessment

A written risk assessment should contain the relevant factors which are:

• Task,
• Individual capabilities (handler),
• Load (person),
• Environment.

The risk assessment should be reviewed on a regular basis or when there has been a significant change.

The handling/hoisting plan

The handling/hoisting plan should contain the risk reduction measures i.e. equipment, techniques, number of handlers required etc.

In addition to this pictures and line drawing can be used as a visual aid.

The following guidelines assume that the handler has received relevant and current moving and handling training.

• Safety checks prior to each use
• Read and follow the handling/hoisting plan
• Handlers must do an ‘on the spot’ risk assessment to check there is no significant change from the handling/hoisting plan and do a visual check of all equipment prior to using it.
• Prepare environment for hoisting, ensure there is sufficient space to use the hoist safely

The guidelines cover many topics including:

• HOIST – mobile (electric and hydraulic), ceiling track systems, standaid, bath
• SLINGS
• Environment

• GENERAL GUIDANCE – GOOD PRACTICE FOR ALL HOISTING TASKS

Additional guidance for:

• MOBILE HOISTS:
• CEILING TRACK/OVERHEAD HOISTING SYSTEMS:
• STANDING HOISTS:
• SLINGS:
• BATH HOISTS:

Glossary

Flow chart for use of Hoists and Slings

Read and download the 4 page YBE hoist guidelines 2010 here