Slinging and Signals

Know How to Do It Right!

Then Do It Right!
Job Site Considerations

The handling, setting and erection of

materials and equipment is a hazardous
occupation. Each operation presents its
own peculiar problems and no two jobs are
alike. With proper consideration taken,
each job can be performed free of bodily
harm to the employee and without damage
to the equipment.
 Content

 Aims & Objectives

 Learning Outcomes for each day
 Introduction
 8 GEMS Rules to Live By
 The Law and legal requirements
 Documents relevant to operations
 Planning
 Roles of Lifting personnel
 Basic principles of Crane Set-up & pre-use checks
 Common Lifting Accessories & Appliances
 Sling Tensions
 Weight Identification & Estimation
 Hazards associated with Lifting Operations
 Safe Loading and unloading
 Hand signals
 Basic Crane Safety – Components, Stability & Charts
 COURSE AIMS &
OBJECTIVES

Aims and Objectives

 The aims and objectives of Initial Training are to provide personnel, who
have little to no experience of the Banksman & Slingers role, in regards to
the basic knowledge of activities associated with the combined roles and
the safety and regulatory requirements of those activities.

 The Initial Training allows the delegate to demonstrate basic Banksman &
Slinger practical skills following instruction and demonstration by the
training staff.

 This Training Program aims to prepare the delegates for the next stage of
the progression path to becoming a competent Banksman & Slinger i.e.
Stage 2: supervised workplace experience
 Learning Outcome
 Lifting Equipment and Lifting Operations Regulations – relevant to the
Banksman & Slinger role
 Documentation and regulations that apply to lifting activities
 Why it is important to plan lifting activities
 Hazards associated with lifting operations and the appropriate control
measures
 The roles and duties of personnel in a lifting crew
 The basic principles of crane operations
 Common lifting appliances and lifting accessories
 The difference between SWL and WLL of lifting equipment
 Classification of lifts i.e. routine and non-routine (simple, complicated,
complex)
 A typical permit-to-work system as it applies to lifting operations
 Lifting of personnel by crane for work and transfer purposes
 Weight identification and estimation of the load
 Deciding when tag lines need to be used and their safe use
 Planning, walking through and allowing for sufficient headroom along the
route
 Determining the load bearing capabilities of the lay down area
 Learning Outcome
 Conducting pre-use checks of lifting appliances and accessories
 Correct positioning of personnel involved in lifting operations
 Erecting signs and barriers or posting sentries
 Conducting post-use checks of lifting appliances and accessories
 Storage procedures for packing materials, lifting appliances and
accessories
 The disposal of any waste in relation to legislation and procedures
 The importance of the Banksman’s role
 Checking the manifest and reviewing the load
 Checking the load for dropped objects
 Checking the balance and security of the load
 Difficulties that might occur during the lifting and moving operations
 The need for high visibility vests
 The need for communicating hand signals clearly
 What is meant by ‘line of sight’ and a ‘blind lift’
 The hand signal for ‘emergency stop’
 Establishing and using two way radio communications
 Introduction

Moving large, heavy loads is crucial to today's Oil & Gas

Drilling, Manufacturing and Construction industries.
Much technology has been developed for these operations,
including careful training and extensive workplace
precautions.
There are significant safety issues to be considered, both
for the operators of the diverse "lifting" devices, and for
workers in proximity to them.
This Training would provide the required Basic information
for safe lifting of materials using proper lifting accessories
and Signals
8 GEMS Rules to Live

By Mr. Faizan from W.F

 Why Are We Here?

The most important job of any crane operation is rigging of the load. Poor
rigging may result in personnel injury, property damage, or other serious
hazards. Serious injuries may result from:
 lack of competency of the operator
 Structural failure or overload of the lifting device
 Overload of the lifting equipment, used to attach the load to the device
 Loss of control of a load, or part of a load as it is moved, including loss of
control from overturning of the lifting device, such as a mobile crane or
boom truck
 Overloading of a structure to which a lifting device is attached, or the
ground on which a mobile device is operating.
 Unstable ground of which a mobile device is operating
 Contact with overhead power lines or process equipment, such as piping.
 Why Are We Here?

Crane and Rigging Accidents:

 An annual average of 22 workers were
killed in crane-related incidents from
1992 to 2006, according to The Center
for Construction Research and Training.
 OSHA regulations and standards
 Because we care about you, your co-
workers, and your families.
 Everyone is entitled to go home from
work,
 EVERY DAY! Safe and Healthy
Why Are We Here?
The Law and legal requirements
The Law and legal
requirements
 The Law and legal requirements

 OSHA Standards
 Code of Federal Regulations (29 CFR):
• General Duty Clause:
• (a) Each employer
(1) shall furnish to each of his employees
employment and a place of employment which are
free from recognized hazards that are causing or are
likely to cause death or serious physical harm to his
employees;
(2) shall comply with occupational safety and health
standards promulgated under this Act.
 The Law and legal requirements

General Duty Clause:

(b) Each employee shall comply with
occupational safety and health standards and all
rules, regulations, and orders issued pursuant to
this Act which are applicable to his own actions
and conduct.
 American Society of
Mechanical Engineers (ASME)

Note: Company Business Management System BMS and

Other rules would be followed
Documents relevant to operations

General Requirements: ANSI , ASME Standards

1- The employer shall comply with the manufacturer’s
specifications and limitations applicable to the operation of any and
all cranes and derricks.
2- The employer shall designate a competent person who
shall inspect all accessories and equipment prior to each use as well
as during use.
3-Hand signals shall be those prescribed by the applicable ANSI for
the type crane in use. An illustration of the signals shall be posted
at the job site.
4- BMS-06 (Operation and Maintenance (4.3 Crane Operation)
 Lifting Planning
Planning Should Include & Allow For The Following
1. The Weight Of The Load (Including Rigging)
2. The Size Of The Load
3. Available Head Room
4. Method Of Lifting
5. Selection Of The Appropriate Rigging
6. The Working Radius
7. Selection Of The Most Suitable Crane
8. Deck Loading Capacity If Applicable
9. Position Of Obstacles (If Any)
10. Packing/ Timbers To Land The Load On
11. Weather Conditions
12. Appropriate Level Of Permit To Work
 Lifting Planning
Planning Should Include & Allow For The Following
To help produce lifting plans that any one can read and understand
we should ask ourselves the following:

1. Do you have PTW for this job?

2. Are you experienced, competent and
trained to do the work?
3. Do you know the weight of the object
being lifted. The size, shape and center of
gravity?
4. Method of slinging/attaching the load.
 Lifting Planning
Planning Should Include & Allow For The Following

5. Availability of approved lifting points on

load.
6. Proximity hazards, obstructions, path of
load.
7. Conflicting tasks in area.
8. Are you working under a suspended load?
9. Overturning/load integrity/need for tag
lines.
 Lifting Planning
Planning Should Include & Allow For The Following

10. Number of personnel required for task.

11. Communication requirements.
12. Environmental conditions including
weather.
13. Pre-used equipment checks by operator.
14. Have you been given a toolbox talk?
General Requirements
General Requirements
General Requirements
General Requirements
General Requirements
General Requirements
General Requirements
 General Requirements

 Use of a mobile crane requires a properly completed Lifting

Operations Permit.
 Use of a mobile crane requires a written lifting plan and Risk
Assessment / JSA before performing critical lifts.
 The plan and assessment form shall be approved by the Area
Authority, Critical Lift Leader and Company Safety Representative.

 Note: Always Follow National laws, Company requirement and

Weatherford Lifting standards defined in BMS-06
 General Requirements

Critical Lift examples are:

 Lifting over pressurized equipment – live processes.
 Lifting operations when the maximum swing radius of the boom could
be within clearances specified for energized overhead electrical power
lines (15 feet).
 Lifting where the crane operator cannot see the load – ‘blind lifts’. •
Transferring the load from one lifting device to another.
 The load item is unique and, if damaged, would be irreplaceable or
not repairable and is vital to a system, facility or project operation.
 Damage to the load item, if not unique, that would result in
unacceptable negative cost or delay to the project.
 Roles of Lifting
Personnel

 Designated person
 Competent person
 Qualified person
 Roles of Lifting
Personnel
OSHA Says…

 The term "designated"

personnel means selected or
assigned by the employer or
the employer's
representative as being
qualified to perform specific
duties.
 Roles of Lifting
Personnel
• 29 CFR 1926.32(f) states:
OSHA Says… "Competent person"
means one who is
capable of identifying
existing and predictable
hazards in the
surroundings or working
conditions, which are
unsanitary, hazardous,
or dangerous to
employees, and who has
authorization to take
prompt corrective
measures to eliminate
them.
 Roles of Lifting
Personnel
OSHA Says…

Qualified Person
Basic principles of Crane Set-
up & pre-use checks
 Job Site
Considerations
 The person authorized and qualified to do
rigging must always pay close attention to
details.
 One careless moment or act can result in
serious injury or death and tremendous
property damage.
 Proper rigging is an art and should never be
left to the inexperienced. If you don’t know how
to do it properly, then don’t attempt it.
 Job Site
Considerations

Persons performing rigging

tasks usually already
have two strikes against
them when they start!
1. Unfavorable Job
conditions.
2. Job Schedule to meet.
 Rigging Selection

 At times does the average worker on a

drilling rig site get the opportunity to
actually pick the rigging.
 It is normally a supervisor, the contractor
or a trained slinger and signaler carry
out the activity.
 The task itself can be critical and create
serious problems.
 Rigging Selection

The rigging capacity and the material to be

lifted must match. Using too small
capacity rigging or components is just
asking for an accident to happen.
1. Who is responsible
(competent/qualified) for the rigging?
a. Communications Established?
 Rigging Selection

2. Is the Equipment in Acceptable

Condition?
a. Appropriate Type?
b. Proper Identification?
C. Properly Inspected?
 Rigging Selection

3. Are the Working Load Limits

Adequate?
a. What is the weight of the load?
b. Where is the center of gravity?
c. What is the sling angle?
d. Will there be side loading?
e. Capacity of the gear?
 Rigging Selection

4. Will the Load be Under Control?

a. Tag Line available?
b. Is there any possibility of fouling?
c. Clear of Personnel?
 Rigging Selection

5. Are there any Unusual Loading or

Environmental Conditions?
a. Wind?
b. Temperature?
c. Surfaces?(Ice, Suction, Water)
d. Unstable Object(s)?
 Method of Slinging the
Load

 Always match the SWL of one sling to the load weight as a

minimum.

 i.e. If the load is a single point 10t lift then a minimum of 1 x 10t
sling will be required.

 If the load is directly attached to lift points i.e. no double wrap &
choke and you require 2 slings to lift the load as in tubulars etc,
both slings would be a minimum of 10t SWL each.

 If one sling breaks then the other is supporting the full load & rated
accordingly.

 When double wrap & choke a load, take off 50% of your sling SWL.
The load you lift should always match the sling SWL individually.
 The Users
Responsibilities
 The Users
Responsibilities

Crane
Operator
Rigger
 The Users
Responsibilities
 Ensure only competent equipment operators,
lift leaders and riggers perform lifting
operations.
 Lifting shall not commence until a lift leader
has determined the lift method and equipment
are safe and ready to use.
 Ensure emergency contingency action plans,
notifications, and safe areas are established.
 The Users
Responsibilities

 Utilize Appropriate Rigging Gear

Suitable For Overhead Lifting.
 Utilize The Rigging Gear Within Industry
Standards And The Manufacturers
Recommendations.
 Conduct Regular Inspection And
Maintenance Of The Rigging Gear.
 Basic Sling Operating
Practices (ANSI B30.9)

Whenever any sling is used, the

following practices shall be
observed!
1. Slings that are damaged or defective
shall not be used.
2. Slings shall not be shortened with knots
or bolts or other makeshift devices.
 Basic Sling Operating
Practices (ANSI B30.9)

3. Sling legs shall not be kinked.

4. Slings shall not be loaded in excess of
their rated capacity.
5. Slings used in a Basket Hitch shall have
the load balanced to prevent slippage.
6. Slings shall be securely attached to the
load.
 Basic Sling Operating
Practices (ANSI B30.9)
7. Slings shall be padded or protected from
the sharp edges of their loads.
8. Suspended loads shall be kept free of
obstructions.
9. All employees shall be kept clear of
loads about to be lifted and of
suspended loads.
Basic Sling Operating
Practices (ANSI B30.9)
10. Hands or fingers shall not be
placed between the sling and it’s
load while the sling is being
tightened around the load.
11. Shock loading is prohibited.
12. A sling shall not be pulled from
under a load when the load is
resting on the sling.
Basic Sling Operating
Practices (ANSI B30.9)
INSPECTION
Each day before being used, the sling and all
fastenings and attachments shall be
inspected for damage and defects by a
competent person designated by the
employer. Additional inspections shall be
performed during sling use as often as
necessary to assure the safety of the
operation.
 Basic Sling Operating
Practices (ANSI B30.9)

REPLACEMENT
Severe localized Abrasion or Scraping.
Ten Randomly Distributed Broken Wires in
one Rope Lay, or Five Broken Wires in One
Rope Strand in One Rope Lay.
Evidence of Heat Damage. (Cut with a
Torch)
 Basic Sling Operating
Practices (ANSI B30.9)
REPLACEMENT
Kinking, Crushing, Birdcaging, or Any
Damage Resulting in Distortion of the Rope
Structure.
Damaged, Distorted or Field Welded Hooks.
Damaged or Worn End Attachments.
If In Doubt, Don’t Use It!
 Definitions

Balanced – load equally distributed on each side of

the point of support.
Breaking strength – the approximate point, when
under maximum load, the load handling device
fails.
 Definitions

Balanced – load equally distributed on each side of

the point of support.
Bridle sling – A sling composed of multiple legs
gathered in a fitting that goes over the lifting hook.
Competent person – selected or assigned by the
employer as being qualified to perform a specific
job.
Factor of safety – ratio of breaking strength to the
force to be applied.
 Definitions

Hitch “Basket” - loading with the sling passed

under the load and both ends on the hook or a
single master link.
 Definitions

Hitch “Choker” – loading with the sling passed

through one eye and suspended by the other.
 Definitions

Hitch “Vertical” – loading with the the load

suspended vertically on a single part or leg of the
sling.
 Definitions

Master link – a steel link or ring used to support all

legs of a chain or wire rope sling.

Mousing – lashing between the neck and the tip of

a hook to prevent the load coming off.

Rated capacity – the maximum allowable working

load.
 Definitions

Rigging – the connecting of a load to a source of

power so that it can be lifted and moved safely and
predictably.
Safe working load (SWL) – the maximum allowable
working load established by the manufacturer.
Working Load Limit (WLL) - The MAXIMUM load that
shall be applied in direct tension to undamaged
straight length of a sling or hoisting equipment
Sheave – a wheel with a grooved circumference over
which a rope is bent.
 Definitions

Wire rope – consists of many individual wires laid

into a number of strands which are in turn, laid
around a center core.
 Safety Factors

To guard against failure of a wire rope in service,

the actual load on the rope should only be a
fraction of the breaking strength.
The safety factor includes reduced capacity of the
rope below it’s stated breaking strength due to
wear, fatigue, corrosion, abuse, and variations in
size and quality.
 Wire Rope
Construction
 Wire Rope
Construction
 Determining Load Weight

 Actual or
calculated weight
of object or
materials being
lifted
 Include weight of
rigging equipment
and hardware
Determining Load Weight
Determining Load Weight
 Determining Load Weight

1. 800#
2. 2,400#
3. 4,800#
4. 12,800#
Wire Rope Capacities
Wire Rope Capacities
Wire Rope Sling
Capacities
Wire Rope Sling Choker
Adjustments
 Types of Wire Wire Rope
Slings
Lifting Accessories/ Bridle lines(Tackles, Hitches, Angles of lifting, Multi
leg Slings, signs and symbols, types of cranes, Centre of Gravity)
Types of Wire Rope
Slings
Types of Wire Wire
Rope Slings
Double Wrap & Choke

Max 90 degrees

3t slings 3t slings

1.5t
 Double Wrap & Choke

Max 90 degrees

3t slings 3t slings

1.5t

Take 50% off your slings when double wrap and choke
Your Slings are no longer worth 3t each but 1.5t
Make sure the load and slings match
 Tubular for
Transportation

All Tubulars Are Transported With

2 Slings
Double Wrapped, Choked &
Bulldogged
 Is it OK to lift
like this?
 Examination & Testing

 Lifting equipment & accessories for lifting to be of

adequate strength & stability for each load

 Lifting equipment & accessories should not be

unduly susceptible to any fracture, wear or fatigue
Examination testing &
control

Lifting inspection
Examination testing &
control
Type of Wire Wire Rope
Sling Damage

Birdcage damage
Type of Wire Wire Rope
Sling Damage

Damage as a result of a kink in

the wire rope
Type of Wrong
Accessories

Shackle & Shackle Bolt

Synthetic Slings
 Synthetic Slings

Sling capacity varies from manufacturer to manufacturer, no

set standard like wire rope has.
User must look at Individual Sling Capacity Tag to determine
Safe Lifting Capacity of that sling.
If the Tag is not readable or is missing, Do not use it!
Inspect sling before each days use, and as often as
necessary during the day to assure safety of sling!
Sharp edges can slice a sling in two without warning as the
load is tensioned. Use softeners or padding on corners.
 Chain Slings

Only Grade 8 or better ALLOY Chain can be used for

overhead lifting purposes! All chain is not rated the same!
Chain must have a capacity tag attached to it.
Chains will withstand more rough handling and abuse, but a
chain with the same rated lifting capacity of wire rope will be
much larger in diameter and heavier in weight.
Chains must be inspected daily before use and as often as
necessary during use to assure safety.
It is the riggers responsibility to do the inspections!
Chain Slings
Rigging Protection
From
Cutting or Slipping
Softeners, padding or use of blocking..
 Protecting Rigging From
Damage or Environment
Rigging components are expensive to buy and to replace!
Use them properly and store them properly!
Keep wire rope slings lubricated and all rigging stored out of
the weather.
Treat the rigging as though your life depended on it!
Because it does if it fails!
Don’t use makeshift rigging or attempt to repair any rigging
components.
Knots tied in rigging reduces the strength by 50% or more!
 How Would You Rig
This?

What would you need

in the way of rigging
materials?
 How Would You Rig
This?

What would you

need in the way
of rigging
materials?
 How Would You Rig
This?

Would it matter if
the tank were full
or empty?
 Removing Jewelry and
Wearing Gloves!

Cause?
Not wearing gloves
and not taking off
the ring.
Case Study
Case Study
Case Study
Crane Signals
Crane Signals
Crane Signals
 UNIT 1 – ESSENTIAL
KNOWLEDGE

ELEMENT 1 – Company Safety Standards and Expectations

The Crane Operator must have knowledge of the company
Policies and Procedure and be able to answer. The safety
requirement is described in the (BMS) Business Management
System 03 and BMS 01-10 and it is posted on location at the
Safety Muster Station.
Crane Operator should be able to locate the Lifting Policies and
Procedure described in the BMS (Business Management System)
on the electronic copy of the BMS 06 or on the hard copy of the
BMS 06 which is printed and available in the Tool pusher office.
 UNIT 1 – ESSENTIAL
KNOWLEDGE

Crane Operator should be familiar with the relevant paperwork

required to carry out the daily duties he performs on the rig site.
He should be involved in all planning, risk assessments SOP’s
and JHA’s related to the tasks he will be involved with.
The Crane Operator must actively use and promote the use of
TOFS and the use of RADAR card for stopping un unsafe act or
condition and they must demonstrate his knowledge of how to
complete a RADAR card
 UNIT 1 – ESSENTIAL
KNOWLEDGE

ELEMENT 2 –Personal Protective Equipment( PPE )

The Crane Operator must demonstrate compliance with all PPE requirements.
Company provided coverall, Steel toe boots, Safety glasses, Hard hat, Gloves
The Crane Operator is responsibility is to ensure that he complies with the
minimum PPE requirements and follow the company policies in relation to safety
equipment to be worn while working at height. This would usually be when
carrying out maintenance on crane. Greasing etc.
The Crane Operator should demonstrate he can inspect the PPE before use and
confirm that the PPE is in good condition and safe to be wear. Personal Protective
Equipment (PPE) is provided to minimize injury to employees through the proper
use and care as per PPE Policy.
 UNIT 1 – ESSENTIAL
KNOWLEDGE
ELEMENT 3 – Emergency Response and Drills
All Crane Operators should be familiar with the alarm on the rig and their meanings.
Different rigs could have different sound alarms but the purpose of this skills
assessment is to identify if the Crane Operator is aware of the alarms on his rig.
Example of different alarm and their meaning: One long horn: H2S drill Two short
horn: BOP drill Three long horn: fire drill
The H2S concentration is constantly monitored at the rig site at all time and it is
measured in PPM (Parts Per Million). There are two barriers in place at all times by
means of visual and sound alarm. The sensors are calibrated to start one alarm at the
time. This is in relation to the concentration of H2S gas flowing from the well bore,
when both alarms are activated (sound and visual), this means the concentration of
H2S gas has exceeded the allowable limit to work safely. All necessary personnel
shall muster at the primary muster station.
Crane Operator must be able to explain their specific role as per Rig Station Bill.
 UNIT 1 – ESSENTIAL
KNOWLEDGE

3- Emergency Response and Drills

Crane Operator should be able to explain where the relevant escape
routes are for the rig site they are working on
Crane Operator must be able to point out the location of the primary and
secondary muster stations, which should be clearly marked.
The wind socks would help the Crane Operator identify the wind
direction and in case of H2S this would guide them to the right muster
station. All personnel should be able to locate the wind socks on the rig.
 UNIT 1 – ESSENTIAL
KNOWLEDGE
ELEMENT 4 – General Housekeeping
It is the Crane Operators responsibilities to keep his work area clean and organized. It is
important that the pickup and lay down areas are kept free of any potential hazards that
may cause pinch points or similar.
It is the Crane Operators responsibilities to keep his crane and cab clean and organized,
windows should be cleaned daily with no obstructions, handles and pedals must be free
of grease and damage, all safety equipment must be stowed in a manner that shall not
impair his operating ability.
All access and egress to and from the crane must be in good condition, fixed to the
chassis and free of grease or such to avoid slipping or falling. All doors and covers must
be in good working order and correctly fitted.
Does the Crane Operator understand the correct procedures for management of waste,
Question what bin would be used for metal etc. Is he aware of the location of the bins
that he would require to used, if needed
 UNIT 1 – ESSENTIAL
KNOWLEDGE

ELEMENT 4 – General Housekeeping

Crane Operator must be aware of the location and procedure
required in the case of a spillage. He should also be aware of the
materials within the kit that would best be used for the product
spill.
 UNIT 2 – GENERAL CRANE
OPERATOR DUTIES

ELEMENT 1 – General Crane Start up & Shutdown

 UNIT 2 – GENERAL CRANE
OPERATOR DUTIES

ELEMENT 1 – General Crane Start up & Shutdown

 UNIT 2 – GENERAL CRANE
OPERATOR DUTIES

ELEMENT 1 – General Crane Start up & Shutdown

UNIT 2 – GENERAL CRANE
OPERATOR DUTIES
UNIT 2 – GENERAL CRANE
OPERATOR DUTIES
UNIT 2 – GENERAL CRANE
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UNIT 2 – GENERAL CRANE
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UNIT 2 – GENERAL CRANE
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UNIT 2 – GENERAL CRANE
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UNIT 2 – GENERAL CRANE
OPERATOR DUTIES
UNIT 2 – GENERAL CRANE
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OPERATOR DUTIES
UNIT 2 – GENERAL CRANE
OPERATOR DUTIES
UNIT 2 – GENERAL CRANE
OPERATOR DUTIES
Slings & Shackles
Hand & Radio Signals
 Any Questions?

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