In construction projects, excavators, compact excavators, and backhoe loaders are sometimes required to perform heavy-load lifting operations. Compared to ordinary excavation work, lifting operations place higher demands on equipment stability, load control, and on-site operation. A proper understanding of the equipment’s lifting capacity and the use of appropriate lifting methods are essential for ensuring operational safety.
Review the Lifting Charts Before Operation
Before beginning any lifting operation, operators should first review the equipment’s lifting charts to confirm the machine’s rated lifting capacity at different working radii and heights.
The specifications for excavators and backhoe loaders typically provide basic lifting data, while the operator’s manual contains more detailed information on lifting capacity. Operators should be familiar with these figures and select an appropriate operating range based on the actual working radius, lifting height, and load weight.
Construction companies should also ensure that operators receive the necessary lifting safety training and understand how to use the lifting charts and the conditions under which they apply.
Inspect Lifting Equipment and Connection Methods
Selecting appropriate lifting equipment—such as slings, chains, and hooks—is equally important. All lifting equipment should undergo regular inspections as required, and any items showing wear, deformation, or damage should be replaced immediately.
Some small excavators are equipped with dedicated, certified lifting points to which loads can be attached using appropriate hooks or lifting attachments. When performing lifting operations, use the equipment’s designated lifting points and avoid attaching slings or chains directly to non-designated areas, such as the bucket teeth.
Ensure Equipment Stability and Inspect the Work Site
Before lifting, park the machine on firm, level ground and inspect the surrounding environment. Remove any obstacles that could affect the machine’s stability or the operator’s line of sight in advance, and ensure that all personnel in the work area are in safe positions.
For backhoe loaders equipped with outriggers, position the outriggers correctly to enhance the machine’s stability. Compact excavators can use their dozer blade to assist with stabilization. During lifting operations, determine the safe working range according to the equipment manual and avoid operating in areas that exceed the machine’s stability capacity.
When performing a lift for the first time or handling a heavy load, begin with a low-speed, gradual test lift. Continue operations only after confirming that the equipment is stable and the load is in proper condition.
Accurately Determine the Load Weight
Load weight is a critical parameter for determining the safe lifting range. For materials with known weights, verify their actual weight in advance; for materials with unknown weights, do not rely solely on experience—instead, confirm the weight through reliable methods.
At the same time, factors such as the working radius, lifting height, load shape, and ground conditions must be comprehensively considered. Even if the load weight does not exceed the equipment’s rated capacity, an excessively large working radius or poor ground conditions may increase the risk of equipment instability.
Standardize Operations to Reduce Lifting Risks
Excavator lifting operations not only require the equipment to have sufficient lifting capacity but also demand that operators strictly adhere to the equipment manufacturer’s safety requirements.
Checking the lifting charts and lifting equipment before starting work, confirming the load weight, and selecting a firm, level work surface can effectively reduce lifting risks. For any uncertain lifting situations, operations should be halted immediately for reassessment to avoid overloading or operating under unstable conditions.
Through standardized equipment operation and on-site management, the safety of excavator lifting operations can be enhanced, providing a more reliable guarantee for construction projects.
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