What does a hoist operator on constructions sites do?

A personnel and materials hoist is a machine (like an outdoor elevator or lift) that is used to carry materials, goods or people between floors on multi story buildings when being built. It may sometimes be referred to as an "alimak".

The hoist is comprised of a lift car or platform, some machinery and a mast structure tied off to the building.

It is important for hoist operators to know how to operate it safely.

The hoist itself is installed or extended by riggers or scaffolders at the start of the job, so the operator is only required to operate the hoist and not erect and dismantle the equipment.

Detailed job description for hoist operators

• This starts out with identifying any potential hazards and controlling or preventing them.
• Communication methods are decided for using the hoist (bells, two way radios etc)
• Knowing the hoist safe working load (SWL) appropriate for the job at hand and the weights and sizes of any loads to be moved.

• Physically checking the hoist for any damage or maintenance requirements, and how to report any problems.
• The hoist service logbook should be checked for compliance.
• Switching on the hoist’s main power supply and then checking all controls, lights, alarm systems, safety devices and communication equipment are working properly.

• Proper operation of the hoist according to the set procedures.
• Load weights distribution should be monitored keenly and safety maintained at all times.
• Wind and weather conditions are monitored and hoist shut down if dangerous

• The hoist should be lowered to ground level and powered off.
• Check the hoist for damage and report any that you find.
• Check any gates and fences to ensure that they are properly secured from unauthorized access.

All this is what you learn when you attend a personnel and materials hoist training course. You will need a good commmand of the English Language and a fair amount of maths skills for weight formulas and calculations. As with all High Risk Work Licensing requirements, operators MUST be 18 years or older at the time of their assessment.