Drywall Sling Operation Tips from Alex’s Lift Truck Service

Preparation Tips

Always adjust (6) support straps in correct hold (A, B, C) location for drywall length. When all clevises are adjusted to hole ‘A,’ only 8-foot boards are to be loaded. When all clevises are adjusted to hole ‘B,’ only 10- and 12-foot boards are to be loaded. When all holes are adjusted to hole ‘C,’ only 14-foot boards are to be loaded. Other tips:

• No mixed loads of varying lengths are to be loaded on this device.
• Never use dunnage between sheets.
• Never lift more than 40 sheets of drywall at a time.
• Always wear steel-toed boots.
• Check tag for expiry date.
• All lock pins must be in place before using the sling.
• If there’s any damage to lower sling straps (5 or 6), straps must be replaced.
• Spreader bar (4) must always be in place when lifting drywall.
• Outer straps (5) should always be tightened properly before lifting drywall.
• No person should lean out of the structure without proper harnessing.
• No drywall should be lifted in high-wind conditions.
• Failure to comply with any of these conditions could result in serious injury or loss of life.

Drywall Sling Operating Instructions

• Ensure the drywall sling is in proper working order with no damage or signs of excess to any parts.
• Have the crane rigger attach the crane hook to the upper chain assembly hoop and lift off of truck. Centre over drywall to be lifted and ensure the support straps are in the correct holes for the appropriate length of drywall.
• Remove the lock pins and spreader bars and set aside. Slip lower support bars from each side of the drywall from underneath in. When they are square to the frame, re-attach spreader bars and lock in place.
• Allow the crane to lift slightly so the lower supports are neither touching the board or the deck. Allow the unit to self-centre itself, and then push the unit so each side has equal overhang.
• Position the end straps and ratchet them snuggly until there’s approximately 80-foot pounds of tension.
• Lift the drywall from the deck and visually check for any faults. (Please refer to above.) If all appears correct, then lift into place.
• When drywall is in place and swung as close as possible to the balcony, release tension from end support straps on one end only and swing to side. At no time should all end support straps be undone.
• Slide the drywall out, always being aware of any adverse conditions.
• Repeat the procedure for your next load.

Checklist for Drywall Sling

ATTENTION ALL DRYWALL SLING OPERATORS: READ AND CHECK THE FOLLOWING:

• Ensure the certification plate is affixed to the drywall sling and that it is current.
• Check the chain tag expiry date.
• Check for any fraying or cut-off straps.
• Check for any obvious damage to the cradle assembly.
• Check that the drywall saddle aluminum plates are straight and there is no damage to the structure.
• Ensure all 12 retaining clips are in place and not damaged.
• Ensure the cradle straps are adjusted to the correct holes for the drywall length and the spreader bars are also correctly adjusted.
• Ensure the ratchets freely function and do not bind.
• When making your first lift, ensure the load is level and load tensioners on the ends are properly tightened.

IF ANY OF THESE STEPS ARE NOT FOLLOWED OR ANY PROBLEMS ARE FOUND, DO NOT LIFT ANYTHING. REPORT IMMEDIATELY TO THE SAFETY OFFICER TO ENSURE CORRECT REPAIRS ARE DONE.

Have questions about how to operate our drywall sling? Contact our office today via phone or email!