As a construction contractor or builder, having the right lifting equipment is essential for safely and efficiently transporting heavy materials on the jobsite. From cranes and hoists to forklifts and rigging hardware, there are many types of lifting equipment to choose from depending on the specific needs of your project. In this post, we’ll provide an overview of the key categories of lifting equipment and share some tips for selecting and using them properly.
Cranes
Cranes are one of the most common and versatile types of lifting equipment used in construction. They are designed to lift and move heavy loads horizontally and can be mounted on trucks, crawlers, or fixed bases. The main types of cranes include:
• Mobile cranes – truck-mounted cranes that provide easy transport to and around jobsites. Ideal for lifts requiring mobility.
• Tower cranes – fixed cranes that can reach great heights, often used for constructing tall buildings. Provide excellent vertical reach.
• Rough terrain cranes – mounted on an undercarriage with four rubber tires, designed for off-road applications. Best for uneven ground conditions.
• Overhead cranes – also called bridge cranes, these are used in industrial facilities or warehouses to lift loads and move them horizontally on a runway.
When selecting a crane for your project, consider factors like the weight and size of the loads you need to lift, the height and reach required, ground conditions, and of course your budget. Always ensure crane operators are properly trained and certified for the specific equipment being used.
Hoists
Hoists are lifting devices that are used to lift loads vertically. They typically consist of a rope or chain that wraps around a drum or lift-wheel. Common types of hoists include:
• Wire rope hoists – use a wire rope wrapped around a drum to lift the load. Can be powered by electricity or air.
• Chain hoists – use a chain that is looped around a pulley. Operated either manually or electrically.
• Winches – consist of a spool and attached hand crank or power component to wind in or let out tension on a rope or cable.
Hoists are well-suited for projects requiring purely vertical lifts without the horizontal reach of a crane. They can be mounted to a fixed point like a beam or used as part of a crane system to provide an additional hook. Be sure to select a hoist with the appropriate lifting capacity, speed, and lift height for your needs.
Forklifts
Forklifts are powered industrial trucks with two prongs or “forks” on the front used to lift and transport materials over short distances. They are most commonly used in warehouses, storage yards, and manufacturing facilities to move palletized goods and large loads. The main types are:
• Warehouse forklifts – small, maneuverable and designed for indoor use on smooth, level surfaces like concrete floors. Ideal for tight spaces.
• Rough terrain forklifts – have heavy-duty, inflatable tires for operating on uneven outdoor surfaces like gravel, dirt, or construction sites.
• Telescopic forklifts – also called telehandlers, these have a telescoping boom that provides extended reach capabilities over a standard forklift.
When choosing a forklift, think about the typical load sizes and weights you need to lift, the terrain it will be operating on, lift height requirements, and whether it will be primarily used indoors or outdoors. OSHA requires that forklift operators be trained and certified in their use.
Rigging Hardware
Rigging hardware refers to the components used together with lifting equipment to securely attach loads and includes items like:
• Slings – flexible straps used to connect a load to a lifting device, can be made of chain, wire rope, or synthetic materials like nylon or polyester.
• Shackles – metal coupling links used to connect slings, chains, or ropes to each other and to loads. Common types are anchor, chain, and D-shackles.
• Eye bolts – fasteners with a looped “eye” on one end and screw threads on the other, used for attaching slings to loads.
• Turnbuckles – adjustable connectors consisting of an eyelet on either end and a rotating center body, used for tightening rigging.
Always use rigging hardware that is properly rated for the loads being lifted and in good condition. Inspect rigging before each use and remove from service any equipment that is damaged, worn, or stretched.
Safety Considerations
Regardless of the type of lifting equipment your construction projects require, safety should always be the top priority. In addition to properly training equipment operators, there are some general safety best practices to keep in mind:
• Never exceed the rated load capacity of any lifting device or rigging component
• Conduct regular equipment inspections and maintenance per the manufacturer’s recommendations
• Ensure the lifting area is clear of personnel before starting a lift
• Use taglines to control loads and prevent spinning or swaying
• Maintain good communication between the operator, rigger, and spotter
• Secure loads properly and never leave a suspended load unattended
By selecting the appropriate lifting solutions for your construction projects, training your team to use them correctly, and adhering to safety protocols, you can ensure heavy materials are transported efficiently while protecting your personnel from accidents and injuries. With the right knowledge and equipment, you’ll be well-prepared to take on any lifting tasks that the job demands.