Construction Regulation 19: Material Hoists  

What Are Material Hoists and Why Do They Matter?

A material hoist is a mechanical lifting device used to transport heavy loads between different levels on a construction site. They improve efficiency and reduce manual labour but are strictly for lifting non-living loads. Using a material hoist to carry people is not only prohibited but extremely dangerous.

Building a Safe Material Hoist (Construction Regulation 19(1))

Every material hoist and its supporting tower must be constructed according to generally accepted technical standards and be free from defects. This means:

• The hoist must be structurally sound and free from manufacturing or assembly flaws.
• It must be built in compliance with SANS standards applicable to mechanical lifting equipment, ensuring a high level of safety and performance.

Real-World Example: Consider a scenario where a hoist was overloaded due to improper load distribution; such incidents have led to costly equipment failures and even injuries. Ensuring your hoist is built to SANS standards can prevent these risks and save lives.

Hoist Tower Safety Requirements (Construction Regulation 19(2))

1. Firm and Level Foundations (CR 19(2)(a))

The tower of every material hoist must be erected on a firm, level foundation. As per Construction Regulation 19(2)(a), the tower must be securely anchored to the structure or braced by steel wire guy ropes, and extend at least 900 millimetres above the highest landing. A level foundation is essential to prevent tipping and ensure stability.

2. Enclosure for Protection (CR 19((2)(b))

According to Construction Regulation 19(2)(b), the tower must be enclosed on all sides at the bottom and at all floors where workers are at risk of being struck by moving parts. The enclosure must be at least 2100 millimetres high to prevent accidental contact with cables or moving components.

3. Secure Access Points (CR 19((2)(c))

Construction Regulation 19(2)(c) mandates that each landing must have a door or gate, at least 2100 millimetres high, which should be self-closing. This ensures that access is controlled, and safety is maintained during loading and unloading operations.

Load Safety and Hoist Operation (Construction Regulation 19(3))

1. Safe Load Handling

The material hoist’s platform must be designed to safely contain the loads, and the combined mass of the platform and the load must never exceed its designed lifting capacity. Weight limits should be clearly marked on the hoist, ensuring all operators know the maximum allowable load.

2. Hoisting Rope Protection (CR 19((3)(b))

Under Construction Regulation 19(3)(b), the hoisting rope—especially for hoists with remote winches—must be protected from external damage and inspected regularly for signs of wear or tear. Regular inspections are vital to ensure that the rope remains in optimal condition.

3. Effective Braking System (CR 19((3)(c))

As required by Construction Regulation 19(3)(c), every material hoist must have an efficient braking system capable of holding the platform with its maximum load when power is not supplied. These brakes must be tested routinely to verify their functionality.

Pro Tip: Implement a daily inspection checklist covering weight limits, rope condition, and brake functionality to catch any potential issues early.

Preventing Load Displacement (Construction Regulation 19(4))

To prevent the load from shifting or falling during operation, contractors must secure all materials, trucks, and equipment on the hoist platform using load securing devices such as straps, clamps, or nets. This measure is critical to maintaining balance and avoiding dangerous load displacement.

Safety Notices and Signage (Construction Regulation 19(5))

Clear and visible signage is a cornerstone of safe hoist operations. Notices must be affixed around the base of the hoist tower and at each landing to indicate:

• The maximum mass load allowed.
• A strict prohibition on using the hoist to carry workers.
• Any manufacturer instructions or site-specific safety requirements.

Such signage helps ensure that all personnel are aware of the operational limits and safety protocols at all times.

Operator Competence (Construction Regulation 19(6) & 19(7))

Material hoists must only be operated by individuals who have received proper training and certification in hoist operation. Recurrent training is recommended, especially for high-risk tasks, to ensure that operators remain skilled and aware of the latest safety practices. Importantly, no one should ever ride on a material hoist—these machines are strictly for lifting materials only.

Daily Inspections and Maintenance (Construction Regulation 19(8))

Daily inspections are mandatory to verify the hoist’s condition:

• A competent person (certifications or qualifications) must inspect the entire hoist, including guides, ropes, connections, drums, sheaves, and safety devices.
• Inspection results must be recorded and kept on-site and available for regulatory review.
• Regular maintenance must be performed to keep the hoist in safe working condition, with records maintained as evidence of compliance.

Checklist: Ensure that each day’s inspection includes checks for rope integrity, secure connections, proper functioning of brakes, and overall structural integrity.

Material hoists are indispensable in construction, but their safety depends on rigorous adherence to Construction Regulation 19. By following these guidelines—ensuring robust construction in line with SANS standards, implementing clear load safety procedures, and enforcing daily inspections and maintenance—contractors can significantly mitigate risks. Remember: material hoists are strictly for lifting non-living loads; they must never be used to transport workers. Compliance not only protects lives but also enhances overall project efficiency and legal accountability.

ZSC helps you integrate safety into your project design, ensuring that all regulatory requirements are met, and your project proceeds without safety concerns. Contact us to learn how we can make your project safer and compliant from start to finish on 021 010 0209 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.