Main risks

• Load drop due to overload, incorrect slinging, or failure of the anchor point.
• Crushing and impact due to load swing, unexpected rotation, or uncontrolled lowering.
• Entrapment of hands or clothing in chains, wire ropes, pulleys, or gears.
• Deformation or breakage of hooks, chains, or wire ropes due to wear, corrosion, or impact.
• Instability of the supporting structure (beams, brackets, tripods) and possible overturning.
• Electrical hazard and overheating in electric models due to damaged wiring or insufficient ventilation.
• Damage to the equipment due to off-angle pulling, side pulling, or shock loading.
• Slips and falls due to oil, grease, or obstacles in the work area.

Safe use

• Check the rated capacity of the hoist and all accessories; do not exceed it.
• Use a suitable structural anchor point and secure it correctly; check that the hooks close with their safety latch.
• Select slings and accessories compatible with the load and protect them from sharp edges.
• Align the pull vertically; avoid pulling at an angle or dragging the load. Lift a few centimetres, check balance and brake, and only then continue.
• Keep the area clear and clearly marked; no one should stand or pass beneath the load.
• Operate smoothly and continuously; avoid jerks. Establish clear communication and a single person responsible for the manoeuvre.
• Use appropriate PPE: safety helmet, work gloves and safety footwear; avoid loose clothing or gloves near moving parts.
• For electric hoists, check the power cable and control pendant before use; keep hands dry; use the emergency stop if fitted, and disconnect before adjusting the load or intervening.
• Stop work in the event of unusual noises, jams, or abnormal movements, and inspect the equipment.

Storage and maintenance

• Do not leave loads suspended; lower completely when finished.
• Remove dirt and moisture after use; store the equipment dry and protected from dust.
• Hang or store the hoist without load, avoiding impacts; do not transport it by pulling on the wire rope or chain.
• Lubricate the chain or wire rope as specified by the manufacturer and keep the mechanisms clean.
• Periodically inspect hooks, latches, chain/rope, pulleys and housings; replace damaged or deformed components.
• Ensure there are no open links, broken strands, cracks, severe corrosion or elongation.
• On electric models, check wiring, connectors and housing; disconnect from the mains before any maintenance.
• When winding the wire rope, avoid twists and kinks; do not force the drum or its housing.

Restrictions on use

• It is not intended to lift people or animals, or to raise users on improvised platforms.
• Do not use the hoist with loads above the rated capacity, of unknown weight, or with an unstable centre of gravity.
• Do not use it for horizontal dragging, towing or pulling at an angle.
• Avoid use in heavy rain, highly corrosive environments, or potentially explosive atmospheres unless using equipment specifically designed for it.
• Do not modify the equipment or disable latches, stops, or guards; do not use the hoist if any component is missing.
• Keep the equipment out of reach of children and untrained persons; use only by competent personnel or under supervision.
• Avoid prolonged duty cycles that could cause overheating; observe the pauses and limits indicated by the manufacturer.
• Do not use the hoist if you detect cracks, deformations, abnormal noises or slipping brakes.