4.1.1 — Hazard Identification
Before any lift is performed, a formal hazard assessment must be completed. The following hazards are commonly encountered on HVAC/R job sites and must be addressed in the lift plan.
Centre of Gravity Hazards
Equipment such as condensing units and air handlers may have an asymmetric weight distribution due to internal components (compressors, heat exchangers).
- Always consult manufacturer documentation before attaching any rigging.
- Perform a trial lift at a low height to confirm balance before proceeding with the full lift.
- Adjust rigging attachment points until the load hangs level.
Excessive and Unbalanced Loads
- Never exceed the Working Load Limit (WLL) of any rigging component.
- When multiple sling legs are used, the load on each leg increases as the sling angle decreases from vertical.
- At a 60° sling angle from horizontal, each leg carries approximately 115% of its proportional share.
- Always calculate the load and verify WLL against load charts before rigging.
Power Lines
Under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) regulations in Ontario, minimum clearance distances from energized power lines must be maintained at all times. Contact the utility provider and follow local authority requirements before any lift near overhead lines.
Legislated Clearance — No Exceptions
No part of a crane, hoist, load, or rigging equipment shall be permitted to approach within the legislated minimum distance of an energized overhead power line without written permission from the utility owner and the authority having jurisdiction.
Ground Conditions, Excavations & Weather
Slippery & Uneven Ground
- Soft, wet, or sloped ground can cause crane outrigger pads to sink, shift, or tip.
- Verify bearing capacity before positioning equipment.
- Use timber mats or steel outrigger pads as required.
- Workers must be aware of their own footing when guiding or handling loads.
Excavations
- Never position hoisting equipment with outriggers or tires near the edge of an excavation or trench.
- Ground failure under load can cause equipment to collapse into the excavation.
- Maintain a safe setback distance as specified by a Professional Engineer where required.
Weather Conditions
- Wind, rain, snow, ice, and lightning all affect lifting operations.
- High winds increase the dynamic load on a suspended item.
- Establish a maximum wind speed threshold (e.g., 40 km/h); consult crane manufacturer guidelines.
- Suspend operations if conditions exceed safe limits.
Equipment Damage
- Damaged rigging — kinked wire rope, cut slings, deformed hooks or shackles — must be immediately removed from service.
- Inspect all rigging before every use.
- Tag and quarantine any defective equipment so it cannot be placed back in service.