Understanding the value of certified lifting devices

You’re in the market for a lifting device, but with so many options, where do you start? 

It is important to ensure the device is certified — designed to current regulations and standards. It’s the law in Ontario. 

When a lifter is certified, you can be assured of the product’s performance and that it can lift the rated load. Look for devices that comply with the: Ontario Occupational Health and Safety Act, Industrial Establishments, Sections 45-59; Canadian Standards Association, Safety Code for Material Hoists, CSA-Z256-M87 (or latest edition); Canadian Standards Association, Safety Standard for Operation, Maintenance and Inspection of Overhead Cranes, Gantry Cranes, Monorails, Hoists and Trolleys, B167 (latest edition); and ASME B30.20, which applies to below-the-hook lifting devices (the marking, construction, installation, inspection, testing, maintenance, and operation of these devices). Information such as registered metal tags, signage, rated capacities (in black) and safety warnings must be displayed on both sides of the lifter, with lettering visible from the floor.

Another important reason to select a certified device is to reduce the risk of workplace accidents. A correctly engineered lifting device is designed with a standard safety factor 3:1, and when a situation merits, a higher safety factor can be used. 

Certified lifters are also high-quality devices built to last. 

Engineered Lifting Systems and Equipment Inc. (ELS), based in Elmira, Ont., designs and fabricates its equipment to rigorous criteria, which includes but is not limited to the standards and regulations mentioned above, in addition to: Canadian Electrical Code C22.1 (latest edition); Occupational Health and Safety Act (R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 851) for Industrial Establishments; Steel Design Code (CSA S16.01); Welded Steel Construction Code CWB W59 (latest edition); and National Building Code of Canada (latest edition).

When selecting a device, make sure manufacturing and Installations are performed by trained staff qualified to the Canadian Welding Bureau CSA Standard W47.1. At ELS, custom electrical panels and/or controls are hydro (ESA) inspected in the shop, and site construction is performed in accordance to OHSA Reg. 213. Plus, the company’s structural material shapes are a minimum grade of CSA G40.21-300W, and plates, flat bars and sheet steel are a minimum grade of CSA G30.21W. Structural bolts are a minimum A325.

ELS has qualified professional staff who can evaluate overhead lifting devices and provide certification documentation. Contact the company for more information. 

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