The Merchant Shipping and Fishing Vessels (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment) Regulations 2006

Strength and stability

6.—(1) Every employer, in carrying out the obligations contained in this regulation, shall comply with the principles and guidance in Chapter 21 of the Code.

(2) The employer shall ensure that—

(a) lifting equipment is of adequate strength and stability for each load, having regard in particular to the stress induced at its mounting or fixing point;

(b) every part of a load that is used in lifting it, as well as anything attached to the load and used for that purpose, is of good construction, of adequate strength for the purpose for which it is to be used and free from patent defect.

(3) The employer shall ensure that any accessory for lifting is not used on a ship unless it is of good design, of sound construction and material, of adequate strength for the purpose for which it is used and free from patent defect.

(4) In selecting accessories for lifting, the employer shall take into account—

(a) the loads to be handled;

(b) the gripping points;

(c) the loose gear for attaching the load, and for attaching the accessories to the lifting equipment;

(d) the atmospheric conditions;

(e) the mode and configuration of slinging.

(5) The employer shall ensure that accessories for lifting are stored in conditions which will not lead to damage or degradation.