Lever Hoists and Chain Blocks

Lever hoists and chain blocks are manual lifting devices used for positioning, tensioning, and lifting loads.
They are classified as lifting accessories under LOLER 1998 and must be thoroughly examined every six months.
Each device has a safe working load (SWL) stamped on the body that must never be exceeded.
Chain blocks use hand-pulled chains to lift loads vertically; lever hoists use a ratchet lever mechanism.
Overloading causes chain failure, ratchet mechanism damage, and uncontrolled load release.
The lifting chain must be inspected for stretch, wear, corrosion, and damage before each use.
Suspension points must be capable of supporting the weight of the load plus the device itself.
Lever hoists are often used at angles for pulling and tensioning — the SWL applies to vertical lift only.
Proper chain storage prevents kinking, corrosion, and damage that weakens the chain.
A pre-use visual inspection by the operator supplements the six-monthly thorough examination.

Load drop	A failed chain or overloaded mechanism releases the load without warning, causing fatal crushing injuries.
Legal requirement	LOLER 1998 requires thorough examination of all lifting accessories including lever hoists and chain blocks.
Hidden defects	Chain stretch, internal wear, and mechanism damage are not visible without deliberate inspection.

Do

Don't

Check the SWL on the device and confirm it exceeds the weight of the load
Inspect the chain for stretch, wear, corrosion, and kinking before every use
Verify the thorough examination certificate is current and within the six-month interval
Attach the device to a suspension point rated for the total imposed load
Operate the chain or lever smoothly — avoid sudden jerking or shock loading
Store chains hanging vertically or coiled in a dry container to prevent damage
Use a shackle or hook rated for the load — not improvised connections
Report any stiffness, slipping, or unusual noise from the mechanism immediately
Ensure the load is directly below the suspension point for vertical chain blocks
Keep hands and fingers clear of the chain and mechanism during operation

DON'T exceed the safe working load marked on the device under any circumstances
DON'T use a lever hoist to lift loads vertically unless it is rated for that purpose
DON'T use a chain block or lever hoist that is overdue for thorough examination
DON'T use chains that are stretched, kinked, corroded, or visibly worn
DON'T attach the device to suspension points that have not been load-rated
DON'T stand under a suspended load during lever hoist or chain block operations
DON'T use the chain as a sling or wrap it around the load for lifting
DON'T shock load the device by sudden jerking of the lever or chain
DON'T store chains on the ground in wet or muddy conditions
DON'T attempt to repair a faulty mechanism — return it for professional servicing

See also: Lifting Accessories Pre-Use Checks | Lifting Operations Awareness (LOLER)

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