When you use wire ropes on your job site, you rely on them to lift and move heavy loads safely and without any dangerous incidents. However, when they are damaged, they can become costly to repair and hazardous to use. Discover several best practices for preventing wire rope damage and failure to keep your lifting operations safe and efficient.
Inspect It Before Use
One of the most important things you can do when using wire ropes on your job site is to regularly inspect them before use. A competent person who is familiar with wire rope should check for any signs of visible damage, wear, corrosion, or distortion of wire rope strands.
They should also check for any abnormal rope movements or deformities. Catching these problems early will prevent them from becoming a bigger issue.
Perform Lubrication Regularly
Another best practice for preventing wire rope damage and failure is regularly lubricating them. This practice reduces friction and wear and protects the ropes against corrosion. It also keeps the wires and strands moving smoothly and allows you to keep using it for a longer amount of time.
Store and Handle Your Rope Properly
Proper storage and handling can also prevent damage and extend the life of your rope. Keep your wire ropes in a dry place where they will not come into contact with corrosive substances. Cover your ropes when you put them into storage, and avoid keeping them in places with extreme temperatures.
When handling wire ropes, ensure you avoid dragging, kinking, or crushing them. In addition, remember never to exceed the safe working load when you use them.
Keep an Eye on Your Ropes
It is important to keep an eye on your ropes and retire them when they have reached the end of their usefulness. Doing so can prevent unexpected failure and mitigate any associated hazards. A general rule of thumb is to retire wire ropes that have exceeded their service life or have visible signs of damage beyond repair.
Contact American Cable Rigging if you need products like wire rope or nylon rigging straps to move loads on your work site. We can provide you with premium, durable products that protect your workers when performing heavy lifting.