The 10 Biggest Myths in the Lifting and Rigging Industry
From using any chain for an overhead lift to the CE marking meaning “Chinese Export,” plenty of myths still exist in the lifting and rigging industry. This article will debunk those myths…
Few industries have evolved as rapidly as the lifting and rigging sector. As a result, practices that were once considered standard decades ago would now raise serious safety concerns under modern regulations.
When Hoistech’s trainers visit job sites and facilities, they frequently hear statements like: “We’ve always done it this way—why change now?” or “Implementing a new process would slow down our work and cost too much.”
Many outdated practices persist due to convenience rather than compliance. In the past, industry standards weren’t as rigorous or well-defined as they are today.
Now, businesses recognize that proper training is more critical than ever. Without ongoing education, outdated myths will continue to pass from one generation to the next, putting safety and efficiency at risk.
1. A Latch on a Hoist Hook is Optional
Every hoist hook used on a job site must be equipped with a latch.
The only exception is when the latch itself poses a hazard to the operator—typically in extreme environments such as foundries or metal mills, where high temperatures can compromise the latch’s functionality.
In all other cases, a properly secured latch is crucial for ensuring safe and controlled lifts.
2. Latches Are Required for Sling Hooks
No, a latch on a multi-leg sling is not mandatory. However, many companies strongly recommend using one.
If the hook is designed to accommodate a latch, it’s best practice to install it to enhance safety and secure the load properly.
3. You Can Use Any Chain for an Overhead Lift
Both PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations) in the UK and HSA (Health and Safety Authority) regulations in Ireland recommend using Grade 80, orGrade 100, for overhead lifting applications.
Why?
Grade 80 and Grade 100 chains are manufactured from high-strength alloy steel, offering:
– A superior strength-to-weight ratio
– A minimum elongation of 20% before failure when overloaded, providing a clear visual indicator
– Greater heat resistance, with Grade 80 being the standard for steel mills and other extreme environments
This elongation is a crucial safety feature, allowing operators to detect if a chain has been overloaded.
On the other hand, carbon steel chains such as Grade 43 and Grade 70 are commonly used for tie-down and container securing. They are not suitable for overhead lifting, as they do not visibly deform before failure, increasing the risk of sudden breakage.
What if the Load is Below the Working Load Limit?
Regardless of how light the load is, using an ungraded or low-grade chain, such as Grade 30, for lifting operations is a serious violation. If such a chain fails, HSA and HSE (Health and Safety Executive) inspectors can issue penalties and enforcement actions for failing to comply with industry regulations.
4. ‘Backing it Off’ is Good Practice for Screwing a Shackle
A common myth among riggers is that loosening a screw pin shackle by an eighth of an inch helps prevent over-tightening when lifting a load.
In reality, this practice can be dangerous. When the load shifts, it may cause the shackle to tilt to one side, a phenomenon known as spread. This uneven force can bend the shackle’s ear, leading to potential failure under load.
The correct way to use a screw pin shackle is simple: tighten it by hand and do not back it off. This ensures the shackle remains secure and distributes weight properly during lifting operations.
5. Any Type of Shackle Can Be Used for An Overhead Lift
“As long as the working load limit is higher than the load being lifted, any type of shackle—screw pin, round pin, or bolt type—can be used, right?”
No. According to PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations) in the UK and HSA (Health and Safety Authority) guidelines in Ireland, round pin shackles are not designed for overhead lifting.
6. You Can Use any Shackle Pin as Long as It Fits the Shackle Body
Not all shackle pins are created equal across manufacturers. Pins are typically made from three types of materials: carbon, alloy, and micro-alloy. Even if two pins are the same size, their working load limits (WLLs) can vary depending on the manufacturer.
Some manufacturers design their pins to be interchangeable by using the same material across their product range. However, it’s always best practice to check with the manufacturer to confirm compatibility and load ratings.
Additionally, to avoid mix-ups and potential safety risks, always ensure that pins remain matched with their original shackles. This helps maintain the integrity of the lifting equipment and ensures compliance with safety regulations.
7. If Industry Standards Say ‘Should,’ Can You Ignore Them Without Penalty?
While some industry regulations may use the word “should” rather than “shall,” that doesn’t mean they can be ignored. HSA (Health and Safety Authority) in Ireland and HSE (Health and Safety Executive) in the UK enforce compliance with recognised safety standards, even if they are not explicitly outlined in legislation.
Regardless of your experience in lifting and rigging, your daily operations are shaped by safety regulations such as:
– PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations) – UK
– LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations) – UK
– Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations – Ireland
– EN and ISO Standards for Lifting Equipment
– Manufacturer Guidelines
These standards are developed and updated by engineering experts, government regulators, academics, and industry professionals to ensure best practices for workplace safety.
Additionally, under PUWER and LOLER in the UK and the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act in Ireland, authorities can penalise companies for failing to comply with updated ISO, EN, and manufacturer guidelines—even if those updates are not yet directly incorporated into national law.
Your organisation should prioritise adhering to all applicable safety standards. While it may require additional effort, it ultimately enhances workplace safety and helps avoid costly fines and legal consequences.
8. CE Markings on Rigging Hardware Stands for “Chinese Export”
A common misconception is that the CE marking stands for “Chinese Export.” This is not true. CE stands for “Conformité Européenne”, meaning the product complies with European Union (EU) safety, health, and environmental protection standards.
For rigging and lifting equipment used in Ireland and the UK, the CE mark indicates compliance with EU regulations, such as:
– The Machinery Directive (2006/42/EC)
– The Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Regulation (EU) 2016/425
– The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) – UK
– The Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations – Ireland
If you see a CE marking on a shackle manufactured outside of Europe, such as one made in the United States, it signifies that the product has met EU safety requirements and can legally be sold within European markets, including Ireland and pre-Brexit UK.
For post-Brexit regulations, the UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed) marking is now required for new products sold in Great Britain (England, Scotland, and Wales), while the CE marking remains valid in Northern Ireland and the EU.
9. You Should Never Use Turnbuckles for Overhead Lifting
Turnbuckles can be used for specific overhead lifting applications, particularly when precise load leveling is required. They allow for fine adjustments to rigging length and height, making them ideal for situations where maintaining a perfectly level load is critical.
For example, power generation facilities often use turnbuckle hoists in combination with lifting equipment to remove large turbine covers safely and efficiently.
Regulations & Best Practices
In Ireland and the UK, turnbuckles used in lifting operations must comply with LOLER and PUWER. Additionally, ISO and EN rigging standards provide guidelines for their proper use.
Key best practices for using turnbuckles in lifting applications include:
– Threads on turnbuckle end fittings must be fully engaged before lifting.
– All components, including pins, bolts, nuts, and cotter pins, must be inspected and in good condition before use.
– The load should be applied in a straight line and under tension—turnbuckles should never be side-loaded.
– Turnbuckles must be secured to prevent unscrewing or loosening during lifting and handling operations.
Following these regulations ensures safe and compliant lifting operations, preventing failures that could compromise workplace safety.
10. Rigging is Simple. Anyone Can Do It!
Some rigging tasks are simple, but others require serious expertise.
Industry professionals don’t become experts overnight. No matter their background, they spend years learning on the job, training under experienced professionals, and developing their skills through real-world practice.
Behind the scenes, engineers and industry specialists design the formulas, calculations, and equipment standards that keep lifting operations safe and efficient.
Successful rigging depends on:
- The load – what’s being lifted
- The method – how it’s being lifted
- The equipment – slings, shackles, cranes, etc.
- The attachment – how the load is secured
Rigging isn’t just hooking something up and lifting—it takes skill, precision, and experience to do it right and safely.
