Basic principles of safe winch use.

Winches are devices with a wide range of applications.

They are typically used in 4x4 vehicles, trucks, and other vehicles, as well as in situations where an obstacle needs to be removed or pulled in. They are primarily used for demanding work in the field. The surface on which the winch operates is often uneven, muddy, sandy, or covered with snow. Therefore, it is important to remember that this is a mobile device working in difficult conditions, so safety must be a priority. To avoid unnecessary risks, it is sufficient to adhere to a few important rules that will allow us to use the winch safely and effectively.

General Condition Check of the Device

Before using any winch, whether manual, hydraulic, or electric with a 24V or 12V winch, a function test should be conducted. Check the condition of the ropes, hooks, and slings. If any defects are detected, replacement is necessary before starting work. In addition to regular inspections, the winch should be systematically serviced, and corrosion should be checked periodically. It is important to ensure the compatibility of the equipment components (fall arrest system). The consequences of a failure of any of these components can be very serious.

Personal Safety while Working with a Winch

Once we have thoroughly checked the condition of our winch and are confident it will not let us down, we must also ensure our own safety. First and foremost, when using hydraulic or electric winches, it is important to maintain a safe distance (1.5 times the length of the rope). This also applies to bystanders who unexpectedly find themselves near the rope. In fact, we should ensure that no one is in the work zone. This serves as a precaution in case the rope snaps.

When working with a winch, do not wear loose clothing or dangling jewelry, as they can get caught and cause injury. Use protective gloves to protect your hands from potential cuts.

Using According to Recommendations

Before beginning work with a mobile device, one must understand how it should be operated in order to fully grasp its functioning principles. For  electric winches, these devices are intended for intermittent use, so they should not be under constant load. Manual winches are manual devices, so they should not be attached to an engine. To ensure proper operation of the winches, the rope must be kept in good condition, which is essential for maintaining safety and full functionality. If the device overheats to the point that it cannot be touched, work must be stopped immediately. It is best to use a block and wait for it to cool down. To familiarize yourself with the product's functionality in detail, refer to the included instruction manual.