50% Off Harrington and Coffing Hoists

WiscoLift is offering 50% OFF from now until January 1, 2017 on most of their CLOSEOUT products. Included are:

• Harrington Manual Trolley, 1/2 ton
• Harrington Lever Hoist, 1-1/2 ton
• Harrinton Hand Chain Hoist, 1-1/2 ton
• Harrington Hand Chain Hoist, 1 ton
• Coffing Electric Chain Hoist, 1/2 ton with 460 volt, 3-phase power
• Cargo Slings
• Nylon & Polyester Eye to Eye Slings
• Wire Rope Sling
• Lifting Beams

To get 50% off the listed price, enter the code "50OFFSALE" at checkout. Quantities are limited, so don't wait too long!

Visit Closeout Deals!

Merry Christmas!

#harringtonhoist #materialhandling #deals

Employee Fall Protection Still Lacks Concern

Given the fact that OSHA has had Fall Protection on its Top Ten list of violations for the last 5 years, you would think that employers understand the big picture on the importance of having fall protection equipment for their employees when it is required. Whether an employee is working above 4’ or not, if they are working over dangerous equipment and machinery, fall protection should be used.

Looking at the chart below, the number of citations has decreased from 2014, however, it is still significant since employers are responsible for providing a safe and healthful workplace. If a Fall Prevention Program is not in place, implementing one will show employees that you are serious about their well-being on the job.

Implementing a Fall Prevention Program

It is better to implement a program to address workplace hazards than to stick your head in the sand and hope that no one gets injured on the job. Following are some pro-active steps to improve safety on the job.

1. Get a Free On-Site Consultation from OSHA
   
   OSHA offers free on-site consultations for small and medium-size businesses to help you identify workplace hazards. This does not count as enforcement and will not result in penalties or citations. The consultant will assess your specific needs and review their findings after a complete walk-through.|
   
2. Download Free Documentation
   
   OSHA’s Plan.Provide.Train program provides free educational materials and resources for workers and employers on Fall Protection and other work hazards.
   
3. Purchase Fall Protection Equipment
   
   OSHA’s Fall Protection Information states:
   
   All fall protection products fit into four functional categories. 1. Fall Arrest; 2. Positioning; 3. Suspension; 4. Retrieval.
   
   Fall Arrest
   
   A fall arrest system is required if any risk exists that a worker may fall from an elevated position, as a general rule, the fall arrest system should be used anytime a working height of six feet or more is reached. Working height is the distance from the walking/working surface to a grade or lower level. A fall arrest system will only come into service should a fall occur. A full-body harness with a shock-absorbing lanyard or a retractable lifeline is the only product recommended. A full-body harness distributes the forces throughout the body, and the shock-absorbing lanyard decreases the total fall arresting forces.
   
   Positioning
   
   This system holds the worker in place while keeping his/her hands free to work. Whenever the worker leans back, the system is activated. However, the personal positioning system is not specifically designed for fall arrest purposes.
   
   Suspension
   
   This equipment lowers and supports the worker while allowing a hands-free work environment, and is widely used in window washing and painting industries. This suspension system components are not designed to arrest a free fall, a backup fall arrest system should be used in conjunction with the suspension system.
   
   Retrieval
   
   Preplanning for retrieval in the event of a fall should be taken into consideration when developing a proactive fall management program.

In addition to employees wearing fall protection, there are a variety of other ways employees can be protected such as guardrails, safety nets and appropriate training. Don’t become another OSHA statistic…recognize and evaluate fall protection hazards in your workplace before it’s too late.

If you would like information on Fall Protection Equipment for your company, please call our WiscoLift Sales Representative at 800-242-3477. Remember, “Working Safe is Working Smart.”

#fallprevention #safetyfirst #wiscolift

Why Lock Out/Tag Out Training Is So Important

According to Occupational Health & Safety (Aug. 2016), Lock Out/Tag Out (LOTO) continues to be found in OSHA’s top 10 most frequently cited standards.

Employees servicing or maintaining machines or equipment may be exposed to serious physical harm or death if hazardous energy is not properly controlled. Compliance with the Lock Out/Tag Out standard prevents an estimated 120 fatalities and 50,000 injuries each year. Workers injured on the job from exposure to hazardous energy lose an average of 24 workdays for recuperation. OSHA.gov

OSHA 1910.147(a)(3)(i) states, “This section requires employers to establish a program and utilize procedures for affixing appropriate lockout devices or tagout devices to energy isolating devices, and to otherwise disable machines or equipment to prevent unexpected energization, start up or release of stored energy in order to prevent injury to employees.”

Employers are required as part of their energy-control program to train employees on the following:

• Energy-control procedures for removing the energy supply from machines and for putting appropriate lockout or tagout devices on the energy-isolating devices to prevent unexpected reenergization. When appropriate, the procedure also must address stored or potentially reaccumulated energy;
• The energy-control program, including the safe application, use, and removal of energy controls; and
• Inspect the procedures periodically (at least annually) to ensure that they are being followed and that they remain effective in preventing employee exposure to hazardous energy.

If employers use tagout devices on machinery that can be locked out, they must adopt additional measures to provide the same level of employee protection that lockout devices would provide. Within the broad boundaries of the standard, employers have the flexibility to develop programs and procedures that meet the needs of their individual workplaces and the particular types of machines being maintained or serviced.

Developing an LOTO Energy Control Program

• It is important to identify all energy sources in your facility including electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic pumps, hydraulic lines, mechanic, steam, water under pressure, gases and fluid, chemicals or coolants, gravity, and thermal.
• Once identified, they need to be tagged with detailed instructions and how to isolate the energy, check the machine and remove the lockout.
• Create a statement on how to use the procedures.
• Define specific steps to designate the safe placement, removal and transfer of Lock Out/Tag Out devices and identify who is responsible.

Employers are required to provide initial training before starting service maintenance activities.

If an outside contractor maintains your machinery, the onsite employer and contractor must inform each other of their respective Lock Out/Tag Out procedures. The onsite employer must also ensure that employees understand and comply with all requirements of their LOTO Energy Control Program.

Do you need assistance with your LOTO program? WiscoLift has a complete team of certified service technicians and electricians to tag your energy sources and provide documentation for your company. Call us at 800-242-3477 or email smartlift@wiscolift.com.

Remember, “Working Safe is Working Smart!”

#industrial #LOTO #safety #materialhandling

What is the Difference Between a Recovery Strap and a Tow Strap?

Tow Straps and Recovery Straps are often confused as being the same thing. After all, they look similar and do similar things, so to clarify the definition of each, we answered some of the most frequently asked questions.

What is the difference between a Recovery Strap and a Tow Strap? 

A recovery strap is made with nylon fabrication so that it stretches similar to a rubber band. It provides some give to “recover” a stuck vehicle while a tow strap can tow a disabled vehicle to another location yet has no “give”. In addition, most tow straps come with hooks at the end. Recovery straps do not and should not be used with hooks because it will reduce the capacity of the strap.

How do I attach the recovery strap to another vehicle? 

You should pass one end of the strap through the loop at the other end to secure it. NEVER use a knot or additional hardware to attach it. DO NOT attach it another vehicle in a way that it may be cut or damaged.

Is it possible to pull a vehicle so hard with my strap that it will hit my vehicle? 

Nylon straps are safer and easier to use than chains. DRIVE VERY SLOWLY when pulling the vehicle out. Sudden tugs may lead to damage to either vehicle or the strap. A tarp may also be used ON TOP of the recovery strap as a safeguard. If by chance the strap should break, the tarp will slow the recovery strap down before it can cause damage.

How do I know how large a recovery strap to buy? 

A general rule of thumb is that each inch of width will allow you to pull out about 10,000 lbs. and the larger the width of the strap, the less “give” it has. That is why we sell 1” through 6” wide straps on our website. For most people’s use, these widths are the most common. For special applications, please call our office at 800-242-3477. Custom straps are available at no extra charge. Following are recovery strap ratings for single and two-ply:

SINGLE PLY RECOVERY STRAPS – 1 thickness of webbing between end loops 

2 inches = approximately 19,600 lbs. material breaking strength
3 inches = approximately 29,400 lbs. material breaking strength
4 inches = approximately 39,200 lbs. material breaking strength
6 inches = approximately 58,800 lbs. material breaking strength

TWO PLY RECOVERY STRAPS – 2 thicknesses of webbing between end loops 

2 inches = approximately 39,200 lbs. material breaking strength
3 inches = approximately 58,800 lbs. material breaking strength 
4 inches = approximately 78,400 lbs. material breaking strength
6 inches = approximately 117,600 lbs. material breaking strength

For HEAVY DUTY RECOVERY STRAPS, our division Wrecker Supply USA, offers FOUR PLY recovery straps with and without steel oblongs. Custom lengths are available by calling us at
877-670-3130.

FOUR PLY RECOVERY STRAPS - 4 thicknesses of webbing between end loops

4 inches = approximately 133,000 lbs. material breaking strength
6 inches = approximately 188,000 lbs. material breaking strength

If you would like additional information such as care and use of recovery straps, please email us at smartlift@wiscolift.com.

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WiscoLift, Inc. has been in the industrial material handling business since 1974 and specializes in lifting products and services including: cranes, hoists, lifting magnets, industrial lifting beams, lift tables, plate clamps, vacuum lifts, and web slings. Services include #crane installation, maintenance, and inspections in #Wisconsin, #Illinois, #Michigan, and #Minnesota.

Ergonomic and Affordable Crane Solutions - Part II

When you need an ergonomic, affordable crane with capacities of up to 4000 lbs., work station bridge cranes are a great solution.

Both Freestanding and Ceiling Mounted bridge cranes have a modular design, making them easy to expand as your work flow increases. They provide superior load positioning and easy movement for workers.

Ceiling Mounted Bridge Crane

-        An excellent solution when a work area must be free from any support structures. Because this system is modularly designed, multiple bridges can be installed on one runway to increase productivity and flexibility in a work area. Load capacities are available in 250, 500, 1000, 2000 and 4000 lbs. with bridge lengths of up to 34 feet.

Freestanding Bridge Crane

-        When a ceiling mounted crane is not possible, the Free Standing Work Station Bridge Cranes can handle the toughest overhead lifting tasks. These cranes, which can be installed on any normal 6-inch reinforced concrete floor, feature a pre-engineered modular design that can easily expand as your work centers expand. This bridge crane has capacities from 150-4000 lbs.

Aluminum Bridge Crane

-        The aluminum work station bridge cranes are ideal for work sites that have challenging environments. The unique aluminum design is available in a wide variety of spans and lengths, making it one of the best ergonomic solutions on the market.

WiscoLift is now offering financing for cranes priced at $3,800 and above. In addition, we provide installation and service for all Gorbel cranes in the Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan and Minnesota areas.

For pricing information, please visit our website at https://www.wiscolift.com/collections/cranes or you may contact us at 800-242-3477 or email smartlift@wiscolift.com.

#cranes #bridgecranes #wiscolift #materialhandling

Light the Way for Safety

Companies that work with heavy equipment know the importance of remaining cautious and aware of potential hazards. Wherever there are moving parts, there is the possibility of injury or death.

The Forewarner-Max reduces accidents by warning pedestrians with a light projected onto the floor or ground showing there is a crane in close proximity. The light provides a frame of reference when controlling a load and is very effective in precise positioning of the crane.

Features:

•         Designed for indoor and outdoor use.
•         Heavy duty cast aluminum.
•         Includes an adjustable mounting bracket.
•         The 150 degree up/down mounting bracket allows precise positioning of beam on the floor below.

Three different systems are available with a 9” spotlight with 24 LED focused beams. Light option colors are blue, red or white.

For more information please call our Sales Representative at 800-242-3477 or email us at smartlift@wiscolift.com.

#safety #warehouse #industrial #wiscolift

Ergonomic and Affordable Crane Solutions - Part I

Does your company need an overhead lifting solution yet you have limited floor space? 

Our large variety of wall-mounted and freestanding jib cranes are designed to support tool balancers, air balancers, vacuum lifters and hoists. Workers will enjoy the easy and ergonomic movement supporting greater productivity and safety in their daily industrial applications. We also provide financing for all work station cranes priced at $3,800 and above.

Free Standing Work Station Jib Crane

Free Standing Jib Cranes with 360° rotation are perfect to place underneath large bridge cranes, in open areas where they can serve several work stations, in outdoor applications such as loading docks, or in machining and assembly operations where they can be overlapped with other jibs to provide staged operation.

• Capacities: 100, 150, 250, 500, 1000 lbs.
• Coverage: circular, spans 4-16 feet
• 360° rotation

Wall Cantilever Work Station Jib Crane

The wall mounted WSJ200 work station jib crane uses tapered roller bearings at the pivot points for unsurpassed ease of rotation. The cantilevered design allows for maximum headroom.

• Capacities: 100, 150, 250, 500 and 1000 lbs.
• Coverage: circular, standard spans 4-16 feet
• 200° rotation
• Can be mounted to a wall or column

WiscoLift provides installation and service for all Gorbel cranes in the Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan and Minnesota areas. For more information, please call our Sales Representative at 800-242-3477 or email us at smartlift@wiscolift.com.

#cranes #jib #wiscolift

Need a Flexible Speed Electric Hoist?

The new ergonomic ED-V Mini Single Phase Electric Hoist is the first of Harrington Hoists and Cranes’ single phase models to include an adjustable speed feature. The standard speed is 16 feet per minute. When you need a higher speed, simply open the cover and adjust the speed by turning the potentiometer screw with a flat blade screwdriver.

These hoists handle critical loads by providing the speed and precise load positioning for your lifting requirements.

Additional features:

• 120 volt single phase power
• Lightweight and portable
• Low headroom
• Heat-treated gearing
• Weston-style and regenerative load brakes
• Friction clutch for overload protection
• Standard upper limit switch
• Nickel-plated, heat-treated load chain

Ideal for all industrial and commercial applications, we think you will like the flexibility of the ED-V Mini Electric Chain Hoist.

For more information, please call our Sales Representative at 800-242-3477 or email us at smartlift@wiscolift.com.

View Product: https://www.wiscolift.com/collections/electric-hoists/products/harrington-edv-adjustable-single-speed-hoist

#electrichoists #singlephasehoist #HarringtonHoists #WiscoLift

Daily Hoist Inspection Training Program Online

We all know that proper training reduces accidents, however, training is not always feasible due to lack of available time. I am happy to announce that we are now offering our Daily Hoist Inspection training program online for companies and individuals needing general inspection knowledge or to use as a refresher course as part of your annual training regimen. For only $20 per person, our training module combines video clips, diagrams, and applicable OSHA and ASME standards for a comprehensive overview of daily hoist inspection and safe lifting practices.

Our online training program allows each individual to create their own login and do the program and testing whenever it is convenient for them. Upon completion, they will receive a Certificate of Achievement along with a laminated Daily Hoist Inspection Checklist pocket card. Follow this link to view our introduction video.

If you would like additional information, please view the training information on our website, or email us at smartlift@wiscolift.com

Does Your Fall Protection Include OSHA's Recommendations?

According to OSHA, fall protection products fit into four functional categories:

1. Fall Arrest;
2. Positioning;
3. Suspension; and
4. Retrieval.

Fall Arrest – Is required if there is any danger that a worker could fall from an elevated position. As a general rule, the system should be used when working of heights of 6’ or more. A full-body harness with a shock-absorbing lanyard or a retractable lifeline is the only product recommended.

Positioning – Holds the worker in place while keeping their hands free. When the worker leans back the system is activated. Note: Positioning is NOT designed for fall arrest purposes.

Suspension – Lowers and supports a worker while allowing them to work hands-free.

Retrieval – Preplan retrieval in the event a fall should take place as part of your fall arrest program.

Do you need assistance with a Fall Protection System? WiscoLift is a nationally recognized dealer of Fall Protection Systems. For more information, call our Sales Representative at 800-242-3477 or email us at smartlift@wiscolift.com.

Reference: OSHA.gov

#fallprotection #fallarrest #OSHAcompliance

Prolong the Life of Your Fall Protection Equipment

Keeping your employees safe does not stop after purchasing fall protection equipment. How you take care of your equipment will contribute to either high performance or diminished safety.

1. Store your equipment in an area that is clean, dry, and has no exposure to fumes or corrosive elements.
   
2. Wipe off all surface dirt with a dampened sponge using plain water. Then squeeze the sponge dry and dip it in a mild solution of water and detergent or soap. Work up a thick lather, wiping the equipment vigorously. Follow by wiping the belt with a dry clean cloth.
   
3. Hang wet equipment to dry away from excessive heat or sunlight.

Caring for your equipment will prolong and endure its life as well as keep it functioning appropriately.

#safetyharnesscare  #fallprotectionequipment  

Sling Hitches ~ Sling Load and Hitch Types

Slings can be used in any of the following four "HITCHES":

Vertical or straight attachment to the load by using hooks, shackles, or other hardware.

Choker hitches are used when conditions allow for safe "choking" of the load by the sling. In all cases care must be taken to insure the following:

1. The load will not be damaged by the sling body.
2. The sling will not be damaged by the load.
3. All adjustments to the sling must be made prior to lifting. Tightening the sling during lifting may result in burns which seriously damage the sling and may cause sling failure.
4. The point of choke should be on the sling body and not against the splice or base of the sling eye.

Basket hitches are used to distribute the load equally between sling legs. See section below on effect of angles on sling legs.

Bridle hitches are used when two or more slings are needed to provide load control.

All hitch styles are shown below:

Sling Angle Stress Factors

Consideration must always be given to the angle at which a sling is to be used. Any angle from vertical will decrease the sling's capacity. The amount of lost capacity is determined by the "sling to hook angle", shown as angle "A" below. To calculate the capacity of a sling used at an angle, multiple the sling's load rating by the appropriate factor in the "Sling Load Chart" below. This will give you the sling's reduced rated capacity.

Sling Load Chart

WiscoLift designs custom slings for any application. For more information, email us at smartlift@wiscolift.com or view our available slings online at WEB SLINGS.

Improve Industrial Efficiency with a Conveyor System

Have you considered a new Conveyor System for your warehouse and manufacturing applications? Conveyor technology continues to advance to minimize unexpected downtime and there are a full range of conveyors for every application imaginable. Following is a list of conveyor types and their primary usage:

• Cleated Belt Conveyors - Handles parts that move in an up/down incline with an economical parts conveyor. Belt widths can be ordered from 4" wide to 48" wide.
• Steel Wire Mesh Belt Conveyors - Used to convey oily, hot or cold products in cooling, oven or other special spraying and drying conditions.
• Motorized Roller Conveyors - Loads up to 3900 lbs. can be moved with these clean and efficient motorized roller systems.
• Roller Bed Belt Conveyors - Designed for transporting heavy loads over long distances with less horsepower than slider bed conveyors.
• Gravity Conveyors - Standard in the production industry due to their ideal movement of light to medium weight packages. Easily portable and can be used as a temporary or a permanent conveyor line.
• Accordion Conveyors - Portable and efficient, they conform to various shapes necessary for ease of product handling with lengths available up to 60 feet and load capacity up to 275 lbs. per lineal foot.
• Zone Accumulation - Designed to accumulate products and containers into zones without contact; commonly termed Zero Pressure Accumulation or ZPA.
• Gates - Manual or spring assisted gates can be used to provide access to personnel or equipment in other areas of the building. Can be used with skate wheel or roller conveyors.

WiscoLift is now offering a full range of conveyors for all of your warehouse and manufacturing applications. We can assist with evaluation of your specific application and provide customized installation. For more information on conveyor systems, call us at 800-242-3477 or email us at smartlift@wiscolift.com.

Upgrade Your Crane to the 21st Century

Does your Crane need some new technology to ensure safety and ease of use? Let WiscoLift bring your crane up-to-date with engineered components for your application requirements:

• Wireless communication controls.
• Laser, proximity, and photoelectric sensors.
• Communication interface for Collision Avoidance Control.
• Pre-engineered two-way communication for access to troubleshooting information and load weight on the ground.
• Built-in electronic motor thermal overload protection.
• Ergonomic pendants that deliver optimum control and performance with less fatigue.

There are several benefits to adding engineered applications to your crane:

•  Built-in self-diagnostics help keep your overhead material handling system up and running safely.
• Collision Avoidance Systems limit the potential for crane-to-wall and crane-to-crane collisions and use self-monitoring optical lasers to monitor your crane’s position.
• Pre-engineered control panels allow you to access diagnostics and improve safety through crane stoppage after any communication loss (either serial or RF transmission)
• New lightweight, ergonomic pendant design performs with less effort and fatigue than traditional pendants.

We are happy to provide more information on upgrading your crane to the 21^st century. Call our Sales Representative at 800-242-3477 or email us at smartlift@wiscolift.com.