| Mine Type: |
All
|
Category: |
General Safety |
Come-a-longs ("red-devils, Come-a-longs, guy pullers, and pull jacks" to some) account for about 1 in 10 hand tool accidents. These tools may seem harmless, but accidents can occur. Injuries include deep gashes; lost teeth; concussions; and fractured hands, arms, legs and ribs.
The most common cause of come-a-long accidents occur when the hook slips, or something in the ‘system' fails. This causes the chain or wire rope to suddenly ‘whip,' striking miners with considerable force.
The ‘system' includes bolts, eyes, and other anchor points; cleats, clamps and other objects used to attach to items such as chains, cables, conveyor belts or the come-a-long itself.
You can avoid accidents by following these simple rules:
- Don't use a come-a-long if it has any damaged parts. Make sure the throat latch works properly and is in good condition. Don't forget to check the cable, chain or strap for any type of damage (fraying, splitting, etc.).
- Don't exceed the rated load capacity. Use appropriate end clamps and connectors.
- Don't use a come-a-long in lieu of blocking raised equipment.
Never straddle the tool and keep your body out of harm's way.
- Be certain that all parts of the ‘system' can take the load. Don't forget to check anchor points.
- Don't use a CHEATER BAR (i.e. extended handle) to exert more force on the come-a-long than it is designed for.
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (safety glasses, gloves, hard hat, safety-toed boots, etc.).
|
| Reissued: |
08/21/2002 |
| Tag # |
AP2002-M044
|
|
If you have a tip you would like to pass on, you can e-mail it to zzMSHA-MinersTips@dol.gov. If your tip is selected, you will receive credit in this space. |
|
Back to Top
