Severe weather – important advice about vacuum lifters

As severe weather continues to be a problem across large parts of the UK, Hird Group is issuing urgent advice on the use of vacuum lifters in extremely cold conditions.

Hird advises that vacuum lifters should not be operated in temperatures below zero degrees Centigrade.

John Wilding, Hird Director, said: “The suction performance of vacuum lifters can be reduced in very cold temperatures. As a precautionary measure, therefore, we advise that vacuum lifters should not be used where the air temperature is below zero degrees Centigrade.

“With the severe freezing weather we’re experiencing across large parts of the UK, there will be many areas where such conditions exist. For example, the Met Office is predicting below zero daytime temperatures for Greater London for today [Wednesday] and Thursday.

“In freezing temperatures, the vacuum pumps and batteries on vacuum lifters do not work as effectively. Also, if there is moisture in the system, when it freezes, it can crack fittings, which causes air leaks that can reduce vacuum pressure.”

Also, vacuum lifter should not be used in wet conditions or in high winds. This precludes their use when it is snowing, and as high winds are forecast in some areas as well, significant caution is needed.

Hird is advising customers to ensure vacuum lifters are charged daily and stored inside while not in use. Operators should also take extra care when carrying out daily checks before lifting.

If there is any doubt, customers are advised to consult the vacuum lifter operating and safety guide provided by Hird at the time of hire, or available on the Hird website. Or they can contact the Hird lifting team for guidance.

John Wilding said: “If operating instructions are followed, vacuum lifting is a proven and very safe process. In the current extreme temperatures, due caution is needed to ensure risks are controlled and all lifts are completed successfully.”

If you have any concerns about working in bad weather conditions, you can call the Hird lifting team on 0203 174 0658.

Email: [email protected]