TAG/ RESTRAINT LINE

What is a tag line.? Is it only used for control the load from spinning.?

No, Tag line is a rope attached to a lifted load for controlling, stabilizing, leading and positioning the load. As mentioned, tag line is not just a rope to control the load from spinning, it has many uses depending on the nature of lifting job.

Some of the observations that are often made during lifting work are,

1.?????? Do not lift any loads without tag line

2.?????? Do not use tag line less than half inch diameter

Is it true.? Are there any lifting standards that says the same.?

?

Let’s take a look into OSHA standards,

General Industry OSHA-1910-180 (h)(3) (16): - When rotating the crane, sudden starts and stops shall be avoided. Rotational speed shall be such that the load does not swing out beyond radii at which it can be controlled, A tag line shall be used when the rotation of the load would be hazardous.

Construction OSHA-1926-1417 (w): - A tag line must be used if necessary to prevent rotation of the load that would be hazardous.

Hoisting personnel OSHA- 1926-1431 (k)(5): - Tag lines must be used when necessary to control the platform.

OSHA Directive CPL 02-01-034 "Inspection policy and procedures for OSHA's steel erection standards for construction" published on 3/22/2002 for the current policy on OSHA's steel erection standards (1926 Subpart R) for construction, Correction 6/20/2005: - Please be advised that the standard does not mandate that tag lines must be used every time a load is being moved.

From these, there is no standard that the tag line is mandatory for lifting operations, the lifting engineer or supervisor can decide the necessity of the tag line. The intent of the standard is to assure that all loads that pose a hazard to employees are under control at all times.

There are other reasons for avoiding tag line, such as insufficient space for the tag line handler, chances of the tag line getting stuck in the swing way, inability to control the load with the tag line, etc.

The idea for size of tag line is similar, there is no minimum standard size for tag line, it is better to use a larger dia so that the user can get a better grip.

If possible, a larger dia of half an inch or more should be used. But it may not always be possible, some live plants and power plants have lot of restrictions on the swing way, we can’t use a larger dia as the risk of getting stuck is high. Depending on the site conditions 6mm, 8mm tag line can be used, it can be decided by the lifting supervisor or engineer.