Working in an environment that has many lifting operations is considered a risky undertaking. However, a large number of companies are operating in the heavy lifting sector where loads have to be lifted to very high levels of buildings and other structures. Safety has, therefore, remained a primary concern in these companies.
Trends continue to highlight that a large number of people get injuries in lifting activities, especially where safety issues have been neglected. OSHA standards have provided various rules and regulations that need to be followed to enhance safety. However, lack of proper fall protection, which is a key OSHA standard, continues to be the most common violated standard.
Lifting Shackles
One of the ideal industrial lifting equipment that provides the needed safety is anchor shackles. They provide the necessary safety straps, where two ropes and lifting slings can be attached to help in lifting a load without endangering workers’ lives. Anchor shackles offer an important connection and secure fastening between the weight and web slings.
If you are planning to enhance the safety of your lifting business, you should not just buy any shackle that comes your way. There are different types of anchor shackles, which mean that you have to undertake some due diligence before making your final decision. These are some of the factors to consider when buying shackles.
1. Stainless Steel Shackles
One of the most critical factors that you should consider when you are purchasing shackles is their corrosive-resistant capability. If this is important, you have to get stainless steel anchor shackles. They are ideal for marine applications, especially where your business involves loading and offloading products from tall and large ships. You can as well consider marine grade stainless steel shackles.
Additionally, you don’t have to buy stainless steel shackles only when you are operating in a wet environment. Even dry areas experience rain and humidity at night or in specific seasons. You don’t want to compromise the safety of your employees by purchasing shackles that are vulnerable to corrosion.
2. Galvanized Lifting Shackles
Where moisture is not a concern, you need to consider galvanized lifting shackles. Every time you connect chain and fittings, especially in industrial applications, it is advisable that you incorporate galvanized shackles. They have a thin layer of zinc oxide that prevents any form of oxidation or corrosion.
Galvanized shackles are very useful and highly preferred in various industries because they are affordable. If you are experiencing budget constraints, you can consider galvanized chains instead of stainless steel shackles. You will not be compromising the quality and strength needed in lifting operations by using them.
3. Pin Options
When buying shackles, it is essential to consider the pin that locks the chain before you commit your resources. Many people have ignored the pin by assuming that it doesn’t play a vital role only for them to realize later that they made a mistake. You need to conduct a comprehensive analysis so that you can determine which pin will be suitable for your job.
Some of the standard pin options that you will come across in the industry include round pins, loose pins, bolt type pins, and screw pins. Screw shackle pins have remained relevant for a long time because they can be connected and disconnected with ease. Captive pins are also widely used because they cannot accidentally fall from the shackles.
Utilizing these tips when you are buying anchor shackles for industrial operations will leave you with the most suitable option. You might as well consider self-locking slings so that the necessity of chains can be minimized to acceptable levels. You need to analyze all the necessary aspects of lifting operations to keep your workers out of harms’ way. Most importantly, never ignore shackle selection advice from experts.