What must never be used to operate a hoist for safety reasons?

Operating a hoist that is damaged or has been abused presents significant safety risks. A damaged hoist may have compromised structural integrity, meaning it could fail while lifting a load, leading to accidents and potential injury to personnel or damage to equipment. Hoists require precise functionality, and any defects—whether due to wear and tear or misuse—can result in malfunctions during operation.

While overload conditions, size issues, or lubrication problems can also jeopardize safe operation, the state of the hoist’s physical condition is critical. A hoist that is structurally unsound poses an immediate and severe danger that cannot be overlooked. Therefore, ensuring that the hoist is in proper working condition, free from damage or signs of abuse, is essential for safe operation.