There are hoists and cranes for nearly everything that has to be lifted, whether it’s as light as 20 pounds or weighing tons. Lifting devices such as workstation cranes help workers lift, handle, and move objects safely and ergonomically while ensuring product quality.
Designed to lift loads of up to two tons, workstation crane systems ease physical strain and lower the risk of injuries associated with handling heavy loads. These provide accurate load positioning and with loads being managed by a lone individual, workplace productivity and efficiency improves.
Workstation cranes are dedicated to a specific area and are usually equipped with a hoist, balancer, vacuum lifter, or intelligent lifting device that comes with holding and orienting devices such as slings, grabs, spreader bars, custom end-effectors, and magnets. There are two main types of workstation cranes. These are:
Freestanding workstation cranes. Also known as floor-mounted workstation cranes, floor-mounted supports securely hold the crane in place. Designed for rectangular work areas, these crane and hoist systems do not add pressure to the building structure and are easy to relocate should workflows change.
Ceiling mounted workstation cranes. Many organizations have shifted to ceiling-mounted cranes for more efficient workspace utilization. Workers are free to move as floor-mounted support pillars are eliminated.
The choice between a freestanding workstation crane versus a ceiling-mounted one would depend on a number of factors, such as the facility’s structure; older buildings might not be able to support overhead weight, which automatically eliminates the possibility of utilizing a ceiling-mounted workstation crane. Another factor would be the nature of the work being performed.
While workstation cranes are valued for the ease of movement and the ergonomic features these deliver, there are other crane and hoist systems you can use to safely move objects within the workplace.
Jib cranes. Standard jib cranes feature a rotating boom attached to a vertical mast that is mounted on the floor. Most jib cranes rotate to a full 360 degrees, thus covering a wide, circular work area. Jib cranes are ideal for processes that require stable and precise movements. Some jib cranes come with fold-away features for easy storage when not in use. An electric chain hoist attached to the boom via a trolley is the most common lifting device used with jib cranes.
Gantry cranes. These cranes feature a beam supported by two (or more) legs. Wheels, casters, or rails embedded in the floor give gantry cranes added mobility. These are commonly used by maintenance teams that work in several locations throughout a facility. A trolley and hoist connected to the beam lift and position the load; the wheels provide lateral movement. Structurally independent, gantry cranes come in multiple configurations, giving these the capability to handle a variety of applications.
Here are some CDC guidelines on using workstation cranes – and other equipment – safely:
Equipment
- Know your load and choose equipment with the appropriate capacity.
- Choose crane and hoist systems appropriate for the material(s) being handled, the layout and design of your workplace, and the tasks being performed.
- Make sure equipment alarms and warning devices are audible and working properly.
- Inspect and maintain cranes according to manufacturers’ recommendations.
- Follow all manufacturers’ recommendations for proper equipment use.
Work Environment
- Clear the aisles and doorways for safe equipment maneuvering and handling.
- Set up barriers that prevent employees from coming close to or beneath supported or moving loads.
Work Practices
- Train employees on proper crane use and workplace procedures.
Integrity Crane and Hoist uses state-of-the-art technology to design, engineer, and fabricate next-level crane and hoist systems that improve workplace ergonomics for material handling and employee safety. Should there be any issues, our highly trained and experienced technicians know how to effectively troubleshoot your equipment and get you back in business. Get in touch with us to know more.
Covering the southeastern United States, Integrity Crane and Hoist, LLC (ICH) is committed to workplace safety and strives for zero incidents at all times. Call (615) 302-3431 for more information.