Guidance on Hand Chain Blocks Used at an Angle to the Vertical

Hand chain blocks are frequently used at an angle to the vertical for applications such as fleeting (travelling a load by transferring it from one block to another) and to provide adjustment within a slinging arrangement. Some hand chain blocks are designed for use at an angle but the instructions from most manufacturers state that they are intended for vertical use only. When use at an angle is contrary to the manufacturer’s instructions, the user must carry out a risk assessment and provide adequate instructions for the application. In practice this can be done safely within certain parameters provided appropriate precautions are taken.

When a hand chain hoist is to be used at an angle to the vertical, where the manufacturer’s instructions permits the practice, then the manufacturer’s instructions should be followed and consideration given to special precautions that should be taken as follows:

(a) Only a hook suspended hoist should be used.

(b) The suspension point must be suitable for the line of force and of adequate strength.

(c) The hoist must be free to align between the seats of the top and bottom hooks.

(d) It must be possible to operate the hand chain safely when the hoist is at the required angle(s).

Where the hand chain hoist that is to be used at an angle to the vertical is contrary to the manufacturer’s instructions, then user must carry out a risk assessment and provide adequate instructions and a safe system of work for the application. In addition use the special precautions outlined above.

In both cases the maximum force on the hoist must be calculated by someone competent for the purpose taking account of the angle(s) and must not exceed the rated capacity

Selection of equipment
There are other types of hand operated lifting machines which are designed for use in any orientation, for example lever hoists and jaw winches. These types of machine are lever operated and are therefore only suitable if the operative can be in a safe and ergonomically suitable position to operate the lever. Where suitable, they should be considered in preference to a hand chain block.

When purchasing new hand chain blocks for this type of application, that information should be included in the specification provided to the supplier.

When selecting from an existing stock, in addition to the normal selection criteria, select a block suspended by a hook or other fitting which will allow the block body to align with the load chain and consider whether it can be operated within the following parameters.

Safe use of hand operated chain blocks at an angle to the vertical
In addition to the normal safe use criteria, special precautions should be taken as follows:
(a) Only a block suspended by a hook or equivalent fitting should be used.
(b) The suspension point must be suitable for the line of force and of adequate strength.
(c) The block must be free to align between the top suspension and the bottom hook.
(d) It must be possible to operate the hand chain safely when the block is at the required angle(s).
(e) The maximum force on the block must be calculated by someone competent for the purpose taking account of the angle(s) and must not exceed the WLL.