Q) What is the difference between “Lifting Equipment”, “Lifting Gear” and “Lifting Machines”

A) “Lifting Equipment” is a generic term used to indicate loosely all lifting gear and machines.

A) “Lifting Gear “ is any item used to connect a load to a “Lifting Machine” but which is not in itself capable of providing any movement to lift or lowered the load.” Lifting Gear is sometimes known as “Lifting Tackle” .Examples would be shackles and slings.

A) “Lifting Machines” are able to raise, lower or suspend the load but exclude machines incorporating a guided load(i.e. lifts) and continuous mechanical handling devices (i.e. conveyors.

Q) What is the difference between SWL (safe working load) and WLL (working load limit).

A) Much confusion exists between the terms” safe working load” and “working load limit. By way of explanation, working load limit is the ‘maximum’ safe working load under ideal conditions and in most cases the working load limit and the safe working load will be the same. However, depending on the condition of use, it may be necessary for the competent person to reduce the safe working load to a value less than the working load limit.

Q) What is meant by a “Competent Person?” 

A)   A “Competent Person” is the person concerned with the testing, examination and certification of lifting equipment. He/she should have such practical and theoretical knowledge and experience of the equipment which is to be tested, examined and certified that will enable him/her to detect defects or weaknesses which it is the purpose of the examination to discover and to assess their importance to the safety of the equipment. The competent person should have the maturity to seek such specialist advice and assistance as may be required to enable him/her to make necessary judgements and be a sound judge of the extent to which he/she can accept the supporting opinions of other specialists. He/she must be able to certify with confidence whether it is free from patent defect and suitable in every way for the duty for which the equipment is required. It is the view that competency can be a corporate responsibility.