Don’t you wish every lift on your construction site was safe and successful?
They will be once you understand the rigging equipment used for heavy lifting. Done incorrectly and people can get seriously hurt. Done correctly and your project flows smoother, safer, and on time.
Here’s the problem:
Many construction project managers don’t know the difference between critical rigging equipment. Which leads to unnecessary risks, delays, and fatalities.
Fortunately, learning about rigging doesn’t have to be complicated. It does require some time and dedication. But this article breaks it all down.
What you’ll learn:
- Spreader Beam vs Lifting Beam — What’s the Difference?
- Rigging Equipment Every Project Manager Should Know
- How Rigging Safety Should Be a Top Priority
- How to Choose the Correct Equipment for the Job
Spreader Beam vs Lifting Beam — What’s the Difference?
That confusion is exactly why this section starts with spreader beam vs lifting beam.
Both are used to distribute the load weight during a crane lift. However, they do this in drastically different ways. It’s important project managers understand both and know when to use which.
A spreader beam uses two separate slings that attach from the crane hook up to each end of the beam. Think of it like a tug-of-war game. The load hangs down in the middle and each sling is pulling against one another. This spreads the load out horizontally and makes it perfect for wide/awkward loads that need support across a longer distance.
Whereas a lifting beam hangs down from one attachment point at the top. Then, the load is lifted by connecting to multiple sling points on the underside of the beam. These beams are loaded in bending instead of tension. Making them much heavier and rigid.
See the problem now?
So how does a project manager know which one to use? Well when selecting the right spreader bar for your lift, it depends on a few factors. Things like load weight, overall dimensions, centre of gravity, sling angles, etc. all matter. If you were lifting large quantities of oak timber beams across a jobsite, a spreader beam could provide even support to keep the load level.
Lifting beams are better for smaller/multi-point lifts where your rigging points need to be closer together. They each have their time and place.
Rigging Equipment Every Project Manager Should Know
Knowing the difference between a spreader beam vs lifting beam is just one piece of the puzzle. There are many different types of rigging equipment a construction project manager should know.
Wire Rope Slings
Wire rope slings are arguably the most popular type of sling used in construction. Able to handle heavy loads and used in multiple configurations. There are single-leg slings, multi-leg slings, combo slings, basket slings, etc.
Wire rope slings are tough and extremely versatile. Just make sure to double-check the working load limit before every lift. Last thing you want is a busted sling causing a rigging failure.
Chain Slings
Chain slings are even more durable than wire rope. Made for extreme heat, abrasion and UV damage. They are perfect for rough environments that would quickly eat away a wire rope sling.
Although they are not quite as versatile and heavy compared to wire rope. For heavy-duty repetitive lifting where abuse is expected, chain slings are hard to beat. Steel mills, foundries and outdoor construction sites come to mind.
Shackles and Hooks
Hooks and shackles are the connectors that make everything possible. Literally tons of different types and load ratings out there. Using incorrect hardware is a problem that happens too often.
Pro tip: Never use a shackle or hook that’s not rated for the load you’re trying to lift. Inspect them before every use!
Rigging Hardware
This includes turnbuckles, eyebolts, swivels, load rings. Name a small piece that makes lifting possible, chances are it’s important to keep your loads safe.
Although small, rigging hardware is just as important to inspect before every lift. If you find any damage, trash it. There’s never an excuse to use damaged rigging hardware.
How Rigging Safety Should Be a Top Priority
Construction ranked as one of the most dangerous jobs. Rigging plays a huge role in that statistic.
In fact, according to a 2024 Konecranes study, 27% of all load drops are caused by improper rigging. That’s more than any other crane related incident.
Yep, you read that right.
Crane accidents are 90% human error. Whether that’s choosing the wrong rigging equipment, overloading your sling, skipping inspections or not planning your lift. When it comes to accidents, there is always a cause.
They are not accidental.
So knowing the difference between a spreader beam vs lifting beam is kind of important. Using the wrong below-the-hook equipment can lead to load shifts/drops. Which will inevitably cause serious struck-by incidents.
You don’t need to be a rigging expert. But as a construction project manager, you should know enough to recognize when something is unsafe.
How to Choose the Correct Equipment for the Job
Now you know the different types of rigging equipment. How do you know which one is right for the job?
It starts with these 4 things.
- Load weight & dimensions. Larger/heavier loads usually require a spreader beam.
- Rigging angles. The wider your angles, the more force on your slings/hardware. A spreader beam helps decrease that angle.
- Site conditions. Don’t let your failure to lift a load be because of a tight ceiling. Take site restrictions into consideration.
- Inspection/certification. This should go without saying but… EVERYTHING needs to be inspected and certified before use.
Ask questions. Plan your lift before every pick. Understand how the below-the-hook equipment will distribute your load. Most importantly, get your lifting personnel involved.
Create a lift plan. Documenting your lift plan may be the best thing you do to ensure a safe lift.
Without a plan, you’re asking for a problem. Lift plans force you to think about every detail before the lift. What equipment is being used? Who’s picking the load? What are the lift angles? What’s the load’s centre of gravity?
Hang onto that lift plan as well. If there’s an issue with your lift, referring back to the plan can help prevent future problems.
Final Thoughts
Being knowledgeable on rigging equipment should be every construction project manager’s goal. There’s too many responsibilities on the jobsite to not know this information.
This article started with spreader beam vs lifting beam. From there it covered common rigging equipment and why safety should be priority number one. Lastly, it discussed some things to consider when choosing rigging equipment for your lift.
Failing to plan is planning to fail. Understand the equipment you’re using and be sure to plan every heavy lift.
You’ll save time, money, and keep your workers safe. What’s not to love?
