FIBC Safe Handling Guidelines
When lifting big bags with the forklift truck, the lifting tines should be spaced correctly.- All lifting loops, sleeves, or other lifting devices should be vertical.
- Make sure that the lifting loops are not twisted.
- Lifting tines should have rounded edges and/or protective covers.
- Big bags should be lifted or lowered regularly and without shaking.
The load to be transported must not exceed the capacity of the forklift truck.- Big bag to be transported with the forklift truck must be compatible with each other.
- During transport, make sure that the forklift wheels do not damage the transported big bag.
- The transported big bag should not restrict the driver’s viewing angle.
- The truck must be stopped before lifted or lowered the big bag.
The hooks, spreader bars or other equipments used to lifting the big bag should have rounded edges and / or protective covers.- During transport, the safety hook must be used to prevent accidents that may occur if the hooks slip.
- Hooks must have the appropriate radius for the big bag loops.
- Lifted bags must be vertical to the floor without bending.
- The lifting strap must be wrapped around all lifting loops before lifting the bags.
- Improper use of the lifting strap can damage the big bags.
- Big bags are emptied by gravity or suction. Experienced staff should be available in the entire discharge process.
- Under no circumstances should anyone stand under the big bag.
- A bottom discharge spout should be opened only when necessary measures are taken.
- Make sure that big bags are stacked in a stable and secure way.
- Where possible possible, the stack must be formed against at least 2 retaining walls to ensure stacking is safe.
- The higher the stacking, the higher the need for a retaining wall.
- If free stacking is to be performed, stacking should be done by pyramid method.
- Stacking should be carried out as carefully as possible, big bags should not be damaged by being pushed or left from high.
