Improper rigging maintenance and unsafe practices can lead to shocking, and sometimes deadly, results. One of the biggest dangers in lifting operations is shock loading: a force that can silently damage equipment over time and cause catastrophic failures.
At LGH, we’ve seen firsthand how overlooked rigging risks can jeopardize both safety and productivity, which is why we emphasize proper training, inspections, and the right equipment for every lift.
Shock loading happens when a sudden, excessive force is applied to a rigging system. In lifting operations, this can occur if a load is dropped onto rigging or hoisting equipment, when a crane or hoist starts or stops too abruptly while carrying a load, or when shifting and “flopping” movements create uncontrolled impact forces.
Sudden movements multiply forces on your crane.
Even if the load is within the rated capacity of the equipment, the sudden impact can multiply the actual forces at play, pushing the system far beyond what it was designed to handle. Think of it this way: placing a box gently onto a platform is one thing, but dropping that same box from just a few feet above creates significantly more force on impact, and the equipment absorbs that strain instantly.
The dangers of repeated shock loading go far beyond immediate equipment failure. Over time, it can cause wire rope damage, break welds, create fatigue fractures in metal components, bend hooks or shackles, and push cranes and hoists beyond their safe operating limits. The most concerning part is that equipment often looks fine on the surface while hidden damage continues to spread.
This is why shock loading is often called a silent killer in rigging, it slowly weakens equipment until, one day, it fails without warning. And when that failure comes, it’s rarely the operator who caused the damage who suffers the consequences. More often, it’s the unsuspecting worker nearby who pays the price when the load comes crashing down.
Shock loading can quickly damage cranes and rigging, handle every lift with care.
Consider a facility where heavy components are regularly moved and repositioned during handling. Each time a load shifts or is set down abruptly, the impact sends vibrations through the rigging and hoist system, gradually wearing down equipment and increasing the risk of failure over time.
The crane isn’t failing today, tomorrow, or even this year. But know that this constant abuse is slowly wearing down its components and eventually, one shock load too many will trigger a catastrophic failure.
The good news? Shock loading is preventable. Here’s how to reduce the risks:
By prioritizing safe practices, conducting thorough inspections, and avoiding shortcuts, you can dramatically reduce the risk of shock loading incidents. At LGH, we support safe lifting with a wide range of inspected, ready-to-rent equipment. Our inventory covers everything from air chain hoists and spreader beams to hydraulic jacks and rack rollers with capacities ranging from less than a ton to well over 400 tons. Whatever the challenge, we’ve got the right gear to match the job.
Shock loading may not always leave visible scars, but its impact is very real. The cumulative damage builds quietly until one day, it’s too late. Protect your people, protect your equipment, and protect your job site by making shock load prevention a priority.
Stay safe. Stay prepared. Happy lifting!
LGH is North America’s largest single organization devoted exclusively to the provision of lifting and moving equipment for rent. LGH Canada holds the most comprehensive inventory for hoisting, rigging, jacking, pulling, material handling, and safety equipment. Discover your next project solution at RentLGH.ca
