Provide instruction—Employees should be instructed on safe use of hook blocks to control or eliminate hazards
Know the load weight—The weight of the load must be identified to determine proper reeving and rigging of the hook block
Check the I.D. tag—All hook blocks require a legible service identification tag with the rated capacity and weight to ensure that overloading does not occur
Safety
Never overload a hook block—Know your working load limits and adhere to them to avoid failure or costly damage
Never ride on a hook block or load—Remain compliant and avoid injuries by ensuring personnel are always clear of loads about to be lifted and suspended loads
Rig properly—Hook load rigging must be centered in the base of the hook to reduce the risk of disengagement
Conditions
Avoid extreme temperatures—Review your service I.D. tag for load limits in extreme cold or heat
Do not operate in alkaline or acidic conditions— Metal embrittlement, which weakens the strength of the metal structure, can cause sudden failure of equipment
Inspections
Inspect your equipment—Check the hook block and its fasteners for wear or damage every day to avoid structural or mechanical failure
Inspect the wire rope— Ensure it is not reeved over any of the sheave guide pins
Check the sheave groove radius— Make sure it matches the wire rope diameter
Inspect the hooks— Hooks need to be inspected once a year for regular wear
Check the safety latches—Latches must be in good working order and replaced immediately if damaged
