Materials Handling (including Gear and Equipment for Rigging) » Chain Falls and Pull-lifts
Figure 1: Chain fall (hoist) attached to rudder
Figure 1: Chain fall (hoist) attached to rudder.

Chain falls and pull-lifts such as come-alongs are frequently used to move or lift heavy items. Anchor points must be strong enough to carry the load and the attachment device must be secured.

Note: Confined space entry is one of the leading hazards associated with barge cleaning. Review Shipbreaking: Confined or Enclosed Spaces and Other Dangerous Atmospheres for information on how to protect workers from this hazard.


Chain Falls and Pull-lifts
Figure 2: Improper practice - Chain fall capacity clearly marked, but with defective safety gate on hook
Figure 2: Improper practice - Chain fall capacity clearly marked, but with defective safety gate on hook.

Figure 3: Chain pull-lift with proper capacity and anchor point, used to support propeller shaft
Figure 3: Chain pull-lift with proper capacity and anchor point, used to support propeller shaft.
Potential Hazard:

Failure of equipment, anchor points, or supporting structures due to overloading, distortion, or misuse may cause serious injuries.

Requirements and Example Solutions:

  • Chain falls and pull-lifts capacity must be clearly marked. [29 CFR 1915.114(a)]. See Figure 2.
  • Capacity must not be exceeded. [29 CFR 1915.114(a)]
  • Chain falls and pull-lifts must be regularly inspected. [29 CFR 1915.114(b)]
  • Straps, shackles, and the beam or overhead structure to which a chain fall or pull-lift is secured must be of adequate strength to support the weight of load and gear. [29 CFR 1915.114(c)]
  • The upper hook must be moused or otherwise secured. [29 CFR 1915.114(c)]
  • Scaffolding must not be used as a point of attachment for lifting devices unless specifically designed for that purpose.  [29 CFR 1915.114(d)]
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