Vestil PG series - Manual (Page 12)

Step 5: Make sure that the load is balanced. Lift the load just a few inches off of the ground or supporting
surface to see if it remains horizontal. If the load dips on one side of the grab, lower the load until it fully
rests on the ground/supporting surface and immobilize it. Release the load by lifting up on one of the
pipe guide weldments. Move the grab slightly towards the end of the load that hung lower when lifted.
Raise the object again just a few inches into the air to check the balance of the load.
Once the load is properly balanced, proceed to step 6. “Proper balance” means that the load is level
(both ends of the load stay at the same height) when raised.
Step 6: Raise the load and move it to the desired location. Once proper balance is established, grasp the
hoist hook as shown in photo 8, and raise the load to waist height. If the object has to be removed from a
container or lifted over an obstacle, raise the load ONLY as high as necessary.
We recommend elevating the load to approximately waist height.
Review all hazard safety messages (p.5) and always follow these rules when using the pipe
grab:
• NEVER lift material over yourself or other persons. Inform persons in the area that you will be using the
grab and make sure that no one is in the starting point, path of travel, and end point.
• DO NOT press down on the object. Grasp the hoist hook to stabilize the load while elevated and/or
traveling to a new location.
If you are using a motorized trolley to reposition the object, DO NOT pull on the hoist hook. Allow the trolley to
do all of the movement. Your hold on the hoist hook is a means ONLY for stabilizing the load.
• Always stand at arm’s length to the side of the load and hold onto the hoist hook as shown in photos 8-10.
Make sure that your clothing, feet, and all other body parts stay clear of the load. This stance allows the
operator to exercise some control of the load while maximizing safety.
If you are using an unmotorized trolley,
• Grasp the hoist hook with one hand. Contact the top of the load with your other hand, but DO NOT press
down. Use the second hand only to steer the load. DO NOT pull the object in the direction of travel. Use
the hand that grasps the hoist hook to move the trolley in the intended direction of travel.
7
9 8
- 12 -