Lifting Gear Direct Ltd

Working in the construction industry involves handling many different types of materials which are often too heavy for a person to lift without risk of injuries. Even if the materials are not so heavy they can be awkward to carry or it could be hazardous to carry them up to the heights required.

For this reason Lifting equipment is typically used, not only for health and safety issues but to speed up the building process.

Here we are going to look into some of the most commonly used lifting equipment and material handling solutions that can be used on building sites with great effect. All are available to purchase from leading UK supplier Lifting Gear Direct.
 

Hoisting Devices for Builders
 

There are more hoisting devices than you may think which can aid in the lifting of building materials to the heights/levels required.
 

If scaffolding is in place then there are a couple of commonly used options; Firstly there is the scaffold hoist, this is an electric powered lifting hoist which clamps onto a scaffold pole and is able to swing out over the edge of the building in order to raise up and lower your materials. This is probably the easiest and fastest load moving method.

A scaffold runway system is another option to consider and will depend on your scaffolding set up. They consist of a beam which can be clamped under scaffolding to which a beam trolley and hoist can be fitted. The beams come in 3 metre lengths and multiple may be connected together for a longer runway. This set up enables loads to be lifted up the edge of the build and subsequently moved across the beam to another location. These are great for larger builds.

Next up are the scaffold winches like the MP200 or the AP150, these are powered hoists too, but unlike a scaffold hoist the main unit stays at ground level and just the load hook is suspended at the height required. Up to 200kg loads can be lifted up to 40 metres high swiftly.

Finally we have builders gantry hoists, these are similar to a scaffold hoist, but... they are attached to a counter balanced gantry frame instead of scaffolding. The ballast weight enables the hoist to be positioned over the edge for lifting loads. These are ideal when scaffolding is not present.

Construction hoist accessories

There are many different types of accessories that can be used with the above construction hoists to aid in the lifting of particular loads. For example tipping buckets are great for mortar and loose loads; Wheelbarrow chains are perfect for lifting a fully loaded wheelbarrow and a brick basket enables easy lifting of multiple bricks in one go. Other accessories include swivel extensions, window props, gin wheel pulleys, bucket carriers and more.
 

Lifting Bags for Construction tasks
 

Lifting bags are some of the latest accessories that are used for lifting specific loads, they are robust yet light in weight and take up minimal storage. There are a number which are perfect for the construction industry, for example bucket lifting bags to carry/lift buckets and trug type containers; tube lifting bags for the easy handling of multiple tubes/pipes in one go; scaffold fitting buckets – great for when erecting or disassembling scaffolding and lastly the more and more popular solar panel lifting bag.
 

Other Lifting Tackle used on Building Sites

There are many other varieties of lifting tackle utilised on builds, large or small. Lifting slings of all varieties are common place as are lifting shackles for easy connections. Lifting clamps and load restraint equipment are other types of lifting gear typically used on site.

There are also instances when other types of lifting hoists will be needed, perhaps inside the building. Chain blocks are a great option here as they require no power supply but can lift extremely heavy loads. Electric hoists are another option for fast and efficient lifting. Winches, cable pullers and lever hoists are other possibilities.

Mobile lifting gantry cranes can also be effectively used on building sites especially the lightweight aluminium type. Parking jacks will most definitely be needed in order to level up where the ground is uneven.

Should you need to handle drums and barrels then there are many accessories which can greatly aid in the lifting of these items. If you have a forklift truck on site then a forklift attachment from Lifting Gear Direct will enhance its use to be able to lift and handle many loads.

Working At Height Safety

When working at heights on a construction operation then height safety equipment must be used. Safety harnesses, lanyards, fall arrestors and quality connectors are typical pieces of safety kit for these scenarios and can be purchased from Lifting Gear Direct.

When you need lifting equipment whether it is a one off item, multiples or a collection of different items you will be able to buy them all online from one place at Lifting Gear Direct

Our UK lifting equipment store enables easy online purchasing of many lifting items direct, using a variety of safe payment methods including PayPal, Stripe, Visa and Mastercard.

For bespoke items such as Lifting Gantries and Jib cranes or items marked POA (price on application) you can email us or give us a call. We will be happy to discuss your needs and provide a quick no nonsense quotation; orders and payments can be taken over the phone too and we will provide an estimated delivery date with updates as and when needed.

Lifting Gear Direct is a long established company and well respected in the UK with many of our customers returning ones. One of the biggest advantages of ordering from us is that we can offer many other back up services, unlike many other online stores. We don't just sell, we manufacture, install, inspect, maintain, test and repair many types of lifting gear across the whole of the UK and are proud to be one of the cheapest out there.

Lifting Equipment By Lifting Gear Direct

The range of lifting gear we can supply is far reaching, way too many to list here so why not visit our website and browse away, you are sure to find what you need.

From the smallest lifting shackles and eye bolts to lifting slings, load restraints, hydraulic lifting equipment, lifting clamps and winches or perhaps our largest mobile lifting gantry.

Hoisting equipment is just one of our specialities, in this category you will find different types of manual hoists such as chain blocks and lever hoists as well as a vast range of powered hoists like electric chain hoists, air hoists and wire rope hoists. The latest addition to this range is the Delta DEH electric hoist, we are the leading UK Delta partner and importer of this quality hoist and aim for consistent stock availability so we can boast rapid delivery. So if you need an electric hoist then we recommend trying our Delta hoist, it is fast becoming one of our best sellers so you won't be disappointed.

Other types of commonly used lifting gear include items used in the construction industries. Solar panel lifting bags are extremely popular at the moment as solar panel installation is at its highest as we try to reduce our carbon footprint. Scaffold hoists and their many accessories are also popular due to the increase in home building projects. We keep the most popular of these items in stock for quick delivery such as the HE235 scaffold hoist.

Lifting Gear Direct Cranes

We have our own factories, experienced fabricators and a team of engineers which allows us to manufacture bespoke crane systems. Mobile lifting gantry systems are extremely popular and are custom made by our team for many different industries. Their main benefit is that they can be wheeled to wherever a load needs lifting.

Jib cranes can be floor, wall or column mounted and provide a rotating arm the enable loads to be lifted and moved within the radius of the jib arm. Both can be customised according to your needs and with safe working loads up to 5000kg on gantries and 3000kg on Jib cranes available your workplace lifting tasks will become easier, quicker and safer.

Although these items cannot be ordered directly online, due to them being bespoke and made to order, an email or quick phone call to 01384 76961 with your requirements is all that is needed.

Why order online from Lifting Gear Direct

We aim to make each and every order go as smoothly as possible from the initial enquiry and quote to the order, payment and delivery. Customer satisfaction is a priority and although there are times when things do not go as smoothly as we like, often due to reasons beyond our control we always do our very best to meet our customers requirements.

Check out our excellent Trust Pilot Reviews for further clarification.

A chain block is a commonly used lifting device across many industries. Over the years it has gained a number of titles and may be referred to as a manual chain hoist or block and tackle, they are the same thing although sometimes the term block & tackle can also refer to a pulley block.

Why are Chain Blocks so Popular?

Chain blocks are so popular because they can be used to lift extremely heavy loads without the need for any type of power supply. Lifting Gear Direct are able to supply high quality chain blocks with safe working load limits up to a whopping 50000kg or 50 tonnes. All that is needed is a suitable attachment point where you can hang the hoist from. This may be a beam trolley or clamp that is attached to the beam on a gantry crane or else it could simply be a hook fitted to a solid structure. Whatever or wherever you anchor the chain block you must make sure that it can handle the weight of the hoist and load combined.

Another reason that chain blocks are popular is due to the fact that they are quite a simple device using chain and gears a little like a pulley system. By simply pulling the hand chain downwards will progress the load chain over the load sprocket and subsequently raise the load. All chain blocks will have a breaking system which holds the load steady when the chain is released.

A further advantage of a chain block is their ease of maintenance thanks in large to their simplicity. Daily checks to find any potential problems are important; you should check for hook and chain issues such as bends, distortions, elongations or obvious damage. It is also wise to do a test lift prior to use to ensure the chain block is running smoothly and the brake is working correctly. If in doubt, do not use it, instead you should get a specialist to check it over with a thorough inspection and perform repairs if necessary. Lifting Gear Direct have qualified engineers for these tasks.

The Endless Uses of a Manual Chain Block
 

So where is this equipment typically used and what for?

The list is quite probably endless due to the versatile nature of a chain block. Whilst chain blocks are for use for straight, in-line lifting tasks with a downward pull on the hand chain there are some models that can be operated from other angles, even above like the Yale 360 chain block which can offer distinct advantages over standard models.

Many models, especially the smaller capacity ones can be carried in your tool bag, mid range capacities can be carried by hand, whilst the largest models may require a couple of handlers.

The tool bag chain blocks such as the Yale mini 360 or the Kito CX are extremely popular for those who work out on site or in the field in remote locations. These are great for fitting to a tripod system or portable lifting gantry when on location, as an example graveyard headstones are often lifted and lowered using this method. Objects can also be lifted from below ground level with this system.

Small, mid range and large capacity blocks are used by engineers, utility companies, gas and mining, shipping and dockyards, warehouses, production factories, garages, construction and the food industry, not to mention the home diy'er!

Why Use a Chain Block?

If you need to lift heavy loads without the need for a power supply then a chain block would be an ideal solution. They are quick and easy to set up and use straight from the box and come in a vast choice of safe working load lifting capacities, lifting heights (chain length) and manufacturers. Bigger brand names include Yale, Kito and Tiger but you also have a choice of lesser known brands like GT or Hacketts Lifting Gear Direct even have their own model the LGD chain block.

Because then need to comply with a wide range of industry standards and requirements like LOLER they are all safe to use so the choice is up to you.

Cost will probably play a part in your choice so you will need to weigh up the initial outlay against how the block will be used and the frequency. Productivity can often be greatly increased by using the right chain block.

Some models will have slightly different features but the majority are much the same so check out all specifications before purchase and ask pertinent questions should you need any clarification. Lifting Gear Direct are always happy to help.

Electric Hoists Available Now in the UK

There are numerous electric hoists available across the UK, however in the current climate many hoists have a long waiting time which can sometimes be up to 6-12 weeks. This long waiting time can be problematic for many businesses, slowing down productivity or even holding up a whole project. What is the answer?  When you need a reliable electric hoist within the next day or two check out the Delta electric hoists range at Lifting Gear Direct.

Delta Electric Hoist Partner
 

Lifting Gear Direct are able to supply the premium Delta electric chain hoists in next to no time, typically 1 or 2 days. This is all thanks to becoming the Premium UK Delta hoist partner, importing hoists, components and spares directly from the Delta factory in the Netherlands. At present we aim to keep consistent stock levels so supply should rarely be an issue however things do change from time to time especially with the ever changing market conditions, but our wait times should be no longer than a couple of weeks in a worst case scenario.

Delta Hoist Reliability

An electric hoist with the Delta name will be a very reliable hoisting system. Robustly designed, both model ranges we supply offer plug and play functions for fast set up straight from the packaging. This functionality also lets you change components for something which is better suited to your operation. For example, if you have a Delta hoist with a hook suspension but would like to change it to an integrated trolley, now you can, its easy. Push or power travel trolleys are available. Similarly the pendant control can be switched for a radio remote control system for even easier operation from a safer distance.

High quality contactor relays are used and are mounted on an easy to access steel plate should it be necessary to change them. Each contactor can be changed individually for a more cost effective repair option in the unlikely event one fails.

Should I buy a Delta Electric Hoist?

Absolutely! Our premium DEH Delta hoist offers one of the most affordable, reliable and easy to use electric hoist around. What's more it can usually be delivered to most UK locations within 2 days, sometimes the next working day is possible.
 

With the choice of configuration options thanks to plug and play functionality, dual speeds and 6 metre height of lift as standard what's not to like.

Find out more about Delta electric hoists here, or watch the video below. On each product page you will find all the specifications and in depth details about each hoist to help you make your choice.

Solar Panel Lifting Bags for easier Installation 

With the cost of living rising and many consumers seeking greener electricity, consumers are exploring alternatives to decrease expenditure and reduce their carbon footprint. Installing solar panels to your home is one of the ways to do this. Solar panels are an investment that will last a lifetime, a low-maintenance photovoltaic system that converts sunlight into electrical energy to power your home or business premises at lower costs with renewable energy. The installation of solar panels can be a tricky process but can be made uncomplicated with the correct equipment. 

How do solar panel lifting bags help? 

Solar panel lifting bags ensure a safe working environment during the install process. They can speed up installation time whilst simultaneously protecting the solar equipment. All solar panel lifting bags feature an open-end velcro design which enables quick and easy access to unload once the solar panels are lifted. This open-end design also takes off the pressure on the valves at the edges of the solar panel, causing no costly damage during installation. The velcro is durable yet strong giving the perfect solution when lifting. The bags incorporate webbing handles and all round sling to enable good stability whilst in motion.

Can solar panel lifting bags move multiple panels at one time?

The majority of solar panel lifting bags are made with heavy-duty materials, with polyester webbing slings stitched in for the added strength and protection needed when lifting. Several designs can lift a maximum of 200kg, with a closed measurement of 220cm (width) and 120cm (high) meaning solar panel lifting bags can be used for multiple panels at once. They provide a fast and efficient solution for the transportation of solar panels.

Are solar panel lifting bags multi-functional?

If you may think these lifting bags can only be used for solar panels, think again! 

There are many uses for solar panel lifting bags, due to their large size and heavy lifting capacity most flat panel type items including windows, plasterboard, and plywood sheets can also be manoeuvred safely using the same lifting method. Meaning once your job is complete and the solar panels are installed the lifting bags can be used time after time for multiple lifting projects.

          CONTACT LIFTING GEAR DIRECT TODAY FOR AVAILABLE STOCK AND PRICES

The way we purchase any type of goods whether groceries or clothing has changed dramatically in recent years and lifting equipment is no different, hence our new website for quick online purchases of many types of lifting gear.

The new Lifting Gear Direct website enables you to buy lifting equipment online. Many products can be easily and safely purchased using Paypal, Stripe, Visa or mastercard. Many products have a choice of specifications so you can order the best model to suit your application. Of course help is always available over the phone should you require help with your choice or any other aspect of our website.

Options for online purchase include beam attachments like clamps and different types of trolleys; lifting hoists like chain blocks, electric hoists, lever hoists, builders scaffold hoists and more. Crane systems such as a mobile lifting gantry, Swing Jib crane are custom made to order and therefore will need a phone call or email to confirm a price according to your needs, this can usually be completed very quickly.

For smaller lifting equipment we supply lifting slings of many varieties. Chain slings in various combinations, flat web slings, round slings, one way slings, lifting chains and more. Shackles, eye bolts, lifting clamps, lifting magnets, winches, hydraulics and load & force calculation equipment are all part of our vast collection many of which can be purchased online.

About Lifting Gear Direct

We are a family run company with the second generation at the helm and the third generation also onboard. Many years of experience combined with new modern insights into business & the industry have been achieved over the 3 generations and therefore continues to grow and thrive. We are not just a third party seller; we work within the industry, manufacture some of our own products and offer many back up services to compliment the products we supply. Help and advice from our experienced team can be very beneficial when it comes to choosing the correct piece of lifting equipment for your specific operation. Safety should always come first and choosing the correct lifting gear is an essential part of a safe and efficient lifting application.

Customer service and keen prices are top priorities but we also endeavour to offer a vast collection of lifting gear to suit the majority of everyday lifting operations. What's more we have our very own team of fabricators and engineers which enables us to manufacture mobile gantry cranes and Jib cranes to suit your specific requirements, these are custom made to order and usually take between 7-21 days. Installations, repairs, inspections and servicing on all lifting equipment can be carried out by our team of experienced engineers complete with all the necessary paperwork.

Whatever your lifting requirements are the team at Lifting Gear Direct are ready to help. Visit our website today to find out the full extent of the product and services we offer, or contact us here.

Lifting Gear Inspections – What are they Exactly?

Lifting equipment is used in a whole range of industries, from construction to engineering and shipping to mining. Regardless of the sector that it is being used within or the purpose it is being used for, it will be subject to a high degree of stress, strain and pressure.

The equipment is designed for situations such as this, and is built to be long-lasting. Made from tough metals or other materials, and designed in the most modern and innovative way, your equipment will certainly stand the test of time.

It’s important to regularly inspect your equipment

That being said, all equipment, whether it’s for the lifting industry or not, will suffer natural wear and tear over its service life. For this reason, lifting gear inspections are vitally important.

Why carry out lifting gear inspections?

There are two primary reasons that you’ll need to carry out lifting gear inspections. The first we have touched on above; your equipment is naturally going to degrade in quality during its usage. While it is designed to be long-lasting, no equipment can last forever!

Abrasion, corrosion, and constant usage are just some of the examples of things that your gear will face during its service life. Many of these things happen gradually over time, and lifting gear inspections help to ensure that you can spot these things before they become a serious problem.

But secondly, inspections are also required by the law too. You will find this referred to in the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER), and the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER), which both fall under the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974. Obviously, this is an important piece of legislation!

Familiarise yourself with all relevant guidelines

Both of these pieces of legislation require that all lifting operations are properly planned, and this involves using the right equipment that has been properly tested and inspected. As PUWER says, all equipment must be;

”safe for use, maintained in a safe condition and inspected to ensure it is correctly installed and does not subsequently deteriorate.”

So, to ensure that you stay on the right side of the law and don’t face any unnecessary legal damages, you’ll want to regularly inspect your equipment! But, more so than this, you want to do it simply to keep your workers safe. Faulty equipment can cause serious, or sometimes fatal, harm, and lifting gear inspections are one of the best ways to prevent this.

The two types of inspection

There are two types of inspection that you must carry out on your gear. Firstly, inspections by yourselves. We recommend that you do this before each use, as this ensures that your operation will be as safe as possible.

However, your gear is required, by law, to have a more thorough check every so often too. This should be done at least every six to 12 months, depending on the type of equipment that you have. Generally, loose lifting equipment such as shackles and eyebolts will be every six months, while all other equipment is every 12 months. It is recommended that this is done professionally, after which you will receive a certificate which deems the equipment suitable until its next inspection.

We are able to perform this task for you, using our LOLER and LEEA approved engineers to carry out expert, professional checks and inspections. Should any problems arise during these lifting gear inspections, we will also be on hand to service the equipment or replace the parts.

Give your gear a longer service life

To ensure that your equipment passes its inspections, it is important that you keep it in a good working order at all times. There are some ways that you can help to prolong its service life:

-          Always follow all guidelines given to you by your manufacturer

-          Most important of these guidelines will be the safe working load (SWL) of your equipment, which you must never exceed

-          Ensure that you only use your equipment in environments that are conducive to their longevity. For example, steel equipment is more likely to corrode outdoors than steel over a long period

-          Store your equipment safely and in the right conditions

-          Make sure that all equipment is used in the right way and by competent persons

-          Handle your equipment with care and patience!

These are just some of our top tips, but if you’re looking for more advice, please find our contact details below.

Looking for more information?

Want to know more about lifting gear inspections? Interested in hiring the help of the professionals? Just fancy a chat? We’re here to help you with everything that you need. Please feel free to contact Lifting Gear Direct  here.