Jacks and Jack Stands

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Jacks and Jack StandsWorking with equipment that needs to be raised with jacks or placed on jack stands brings with it unique hazards. Using these tools requires that employees take certain precautions.

Read the Instruction Manual

As with all equipment, the employee should read the instruction manual or be trained on proper operation before using the tools. With that being said, there are some universal safety precautions that all users should be aware of.

The Basics

All jacks—lever and ratchet jacks, screw jacks and hydraulic jacks—must have a device that stops them from jacking up too high. Also, the manufacturer’s load limit must be permanently marked in a prominent place on the jack. Do not exceed the load limit when using the jack.

Setting Up the Jack

Use wooden blocking under the base if necessary to make the jack level and secure. If the lift surface is metal, place a 1-inch-thick hardwood block or equivalent between it and the metal jack head to reduce the danger of slippage.

To set up a jack, make certain of the following: The base rests on a firm and level surface, The jack is correctly centered, The jack head bears against a level surface, and The lift force is applied evenly.

Blocking the Load

A jack should never be used to support a lifted load. Once the load has been lifted, it must immediately be blocked up with jack stands or other suitable blocking devices or materials.

Inspection

All jacks must be inspected before each use. In §1910.144, OSHA calls for a thorough inspection of jacks at least every six months. If a jack is sent out of the shop for special repairs or for a special job, it must be inspected upon return.

If a jack is subjected to an abnormal load or shock, it should be thoroughly examined to make sure it has not been damaged.

If you find that a jack is damaged or defective, tag it accordingly and take it out of service until it can be repaired.

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Maintenance

Proper maintenance of jacks is essential for safety. All jacks must be lubricated at regular intervals

Repairs should only be done by someone competent enough to make the repairs. Examine repair parts for possible defects.

Hydraulic jacks exposed to freezing temperatures must be filled with adequate antifreeze liquid.

Employee Training

There are no specified training requirements for jacks or jacks stands.

However, as with all equipment and tools, employees should not be allowed to use them until they have been instructed in the proper use of the jack or jack stands. Employees should also know who to report damaged or suspect equipment to, and how to take the equipment out of service.

Training Tips

Discuss where in the facility jacks and jack stands are used. Review the facility’s inspection, maintenance and repair procedures with the employees. Bring in a jack and a pair of jack stands and demonstrate their proper use.

For more information see 29 CFR 1910.244—Other Portable Tools and Equipment

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Jacks and Jack Stands HandoutEmployees must understand how jacks and jack stands work and the necessary precautions to take before operating the jacks and stands safely. Read the manufacturer’s instructions or receive instruction from your employer before you use jacks or jack stands.

The Inspection Basics

All jacks must have a device that stops them from jacking too high.

Do not exceed the manufacturer’s marked load limit.

Inspect the jack. Check for broken teeth and other defects.

Keep jacks in good shape and well lubricated, but only lubricate at the points where lubrication is specified.

Never throw or drop jacks.

Setting Up the Jack

To set up a jack, make certain of the following:

Use a jack with a rated capacity that equals or exceeds the load you're lifting.

Always set the jack on a firm and level foundation.

When you're working on a floor of any kind, make sure the load limit of the floor isn't exceeded.

Set the jack perpendicular, at a right angle, to the load and be sure the jack is centered correctly.

The jack head bears against a level surface and the lift force is applied evenly.

To prevent slipping, use a wooden-block softener between the head of the jack and the load.

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If there is a chance the load will swing to the side, install props or guys before doing any lifting.

Have enough help when you install or move a jack.

Before working under a raised load install blocking to keep the load from accidentally falling.

Do not use the jack to support the load after it is lifted. Support the load with jack stands or other blocking materials.

If a jack is damaged or defective, tag it and take it out of service until it can be repaired. Turn it in for repair and be sure to test it under load before putting it back in service.

A jack can slip out from under a load before you have to time get out of the way. Make sure you are using your jack the safe way. By following these simple steps you can keep from becoming an accident statistic. Practice good jack safety.

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Jacks and Jack Stands Sign–Off Sheet

The employees of __________Company Name______________________________, have taken part in a training session on Jacks and Jack Stands. The session covered:

Where jacks and jack stands are used. Why it is improtant to use jacks and jack stands properly. The basics of using jacks and jack stands. Inspection and maintenance of jacks and jack stands.

DATE OF TRAINING: FACILITY:

EMPLOYEE SIGNATURE PRINT NAME

________________________________________________________Supervisor’s Signature