Not All Lifting Equipment Is Created Equal | Global Lifting Awareness Day
Thursday July 2nd marks Global Lifting Awareness Day (GLAD) 2026. An opportunity for our industry to focus on something that affects every lift, every project, and every person involved.
This year’s theme ‘Not all lifting equipment is created equal’ is a vital reminder that safe lifting doesn’t begin when the load leaves the ground.
It starts much earlier with planning, specification, and procurement of equipment. It begins by asking questions: Why are we lifting? How will we lift it safely? And what are we lifting? The answers help ensure the right equipment is selected that is fit for the task.
At Hird, we have provided lifting equipment and lifting solutions since 1983, specialising in niche equipment that helps companies reduce exposure to lifting.
How Hird provides lifting solutions:
Winlet Glazing Robots
Winlet glazing robots eliminate manual handling during glass installation.
Reducing the risk of product damage, minimising downtime and increasing productivity, even with smaller teams.
Valla Industrial Cranes
For over 80 years, Tadano Valla cranes have provided a reliable all-electric pick-and-carry lifting solution.
Used across industries including aviation, pharmaceuticals, food and drink, manufacturing, engineering and plant maintenance.
With zero emissions and quiet operation, they reduce manual handling, minimise personnel exposure during lifting, and help cut downtime in both maintenance and production environments.
Maeda Spider Cranes
Hird offer one of the UK’s largest and most advanced fleets of compact cranes, including the Maeda mini cranes.
They provide safe, efficient lifting in confined spaces and challenging work environments.
Raising The Standards
Lifting and handling continue to raise in standard, however, 17% of all non-fatal workplace injuries are caused by manual handling, lifting, or carrying in Great Britain.
That’s why initiatives like #Glad2026 exist, organised by LEEA, the campaign promotes lifting safety and brings global industry together to do so. Encouraging manufacturers, suppliers, operators, and more to share knowledge and best practice.
Hird’s lifting solutions reduce manual handling, downtime and worker exposure while improving safety. Their safer systems of work also help ease the stress caused by breakdowns and tight deadlines, benefiting both businesses and their staff.
Find Out More
Hird’s range of lifting equipment is available for hire nationally. Call our team today.
Email: [email protected]