Derrick Load Size

Before hoisting, the following requirements must be met:

• The load must be secured and balanced.
• No derrick must be loaded beyond the rated load.
• Loads must be attached to the hook with a sling or other device.
• The load with a hoist rope must not wrap around the load.
• The rope cannot be kinked; lines cannot twist around one another.

During hoisting, the load should not swing, accelerate or decelerate suddenly, contact obstructions, or carry or pass over people. When rotating, a derrick must not suddenly start or stop. Rotational speed must be controlled so that the load does not swing out beyond the radius at which it can be controlled.

Follow these additional requirements for derrick operations:

• Never hoist, lower, or swing while anyone is on the load or hook.
• Never side-load a derrick (except when specifically authorized by a responsible person who has determined that the various structural components will not be overstressed).
• The operator must test the brakes each time he/she hoists a load close to the rated load. Testing occurs by raising the load several inches and then braking.
• Never lower the load or boom below the point where there are less than two full wraps of rope on the drum.

To learn more about Crane, Derrick & Hoist visit our Crane, Derrick & Hoist Safety Online Training web page.