Centre of Gravity (COG)

The centre of gravity (COG) is an important element to ensure that all lifting operations can be carried out safely, as the load can be balanced to move from one area to another depending on the amount of work to be carried out.

However, not everyone involved in lifting operations knows more precise information about the centre of gravity (COG).

The method often used on site to determine the centre of gravity (COG) is the "try and error" method, which is not suitable for critical loads and different shapes and weights. With this method, a lot of time is needed to find the correct centre of gravity (COG).

Next, the "straight line method" is often used to determine the COG for two different weights and shapes, whereby there are two ways of implementing the straight-line method, either with a formula or an estimation method. An estimation method that is often used by experienced riggers on the job site when they have difficulty determining the center of gravity (COG) when performing lifting operations.

The method that is always used by product designers/engineers when determining the COG of their technical products is the "System Load Method". This method is very effective and accurate in determining the COG of loads where different types of equipment are present on an end product, such as HVAC systems.

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Failure to determine the correct COG for the load to be lifted has a significant impact on failures, accidents, damage and a significant increase in costs if an accident occurs (indirect costs)

Therefore, any personnel involved in lifting operations must ensure that they increase their knowledge from time to time to ensure that any knowledge they have meets the requirements of the industry.