SAFE HAULING: SOME OF THE DOS AND DON’TS OF WINCHING
13 March 2023
Winching is a powerful tool that can help you move heavy objects or vehicles, but it can also be dangerous if not used properly. Whether you are an experienced off-roader or a beginner, it’s important to know the dos and don’ts of winching to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you. In this blog, we’ll go over some important tips and guidelines to follow when winching.
DOS:
CHOOSE THE RIGHT WINCH
Before purchasing a winch, make sure it’s the right size and strength for the vehicle you plan on using it with. A winch that’s too weak won’t be able to pull your vehicle out of a difficult spot, and a winch that’s too strong could cause damage or injury. Alternatively, winch hire from a reputable winch company is a good option.
USE A WINCH KIT
A winch kit typically includes everything you need to safely operate your winch, including cables, hooks, and other hardware. Make sure you have a winch kit and that you understand how to use all the components.
ATTACH THE WINCH CABLE CORRECTLY
Always make sure the winch cable is securely attached to the object you’re pulling. Use a clevis hook to attach the cable to a sturdy anchor point on your vehicle, and make sure the cable is not twisted or kinked.
KEEP A SAFE DISTANCE
Always keep a safe distance from the winch cable when winching. If the cable snaps, it could cause serious injury or damage. Keep bystanders at a safe distance as well.
DON’TS:
USE THE WINCH FOR LIFTING
A winch is not designed to lift heavy objects, and attempting to do so could cause damage to the winch or the object being lifted. Use a crane or other lifting device for heavy lifting.
EXCEED THE WINCH CAPACITY
Make sure you know the weight of the object you’re winching and the capacity of your winch. Exceeding the winch capacity could cause damage to the winch or even cause it to fail.
USE DAMAGED EQUIPMENT
Never use damaged winch cables, hooks, or other equipment. Always inspect the equipment before use and replace any damaged components. Winch hire from a winch company is a good way to protect against receiving any damaged equipment as they will have checked it for you.
OPERATE THE WINCH ALONE
Winching can be dangerous, and it’s important to have someone nearby to assist you if something goes wrong. Never operate the winch alone.
USE THE WINCH AS A BRAKE
Using the winch to slow down or stop a vehicle is dangerous and could cause damage to the winch or the vehicle. Always use the vehicle’s brakes to control speed and stop.
ATLAS WINCH HIRE & HOIST SERVICES
At Atlas Winch Hire & Hoist Services, we believe that winch hire from a good quality winch company
is the best option for your business or project. Call 01899 221 577 (Scotland) or 01371 859 555 (Essex) today to discuss your requirements with our winch specialists.