Section 28 of FA, 1948 : Section 28: Hoists And Lifts

Explanation using Example

Imagine a manufacturing company, XYZ Corp, operates a multi-story factory where raw materials and finished goods are frequently moved between floors. To comply with Section 28 of The Factories Act, 1948, XYZ Corp ensures the following:

• Their cargo lifts are constructed from high-quality materials, are well-maintained, and undergo a thorough safety examination by a qualified engineer every six months. The results of these checks are recorded in a register.
• The lift shafts are enclosed with protective barriers and gates to prevent accidents, and the lifts are designed to avoid trapping individuals or objects.
• Each lift clearly displays its maximum safe working load, and the operators are instructed never to exceed this limit.
• Passenger lifts are equipped with doors on each level they service, to ensure safe entry and exit.
• All lift gates have safety interlocks to ensure they can only be opened when the lift is securely at the landing, and the lift will not move unless all gates are closed.

Furthermore, for new lifts installed for carrying people:

• XYZ Corp ensures that each lift has at least two separate ropes or chains for support, each capable of bearing the full weight of the lift and its maximum capacity.
• Safety devices are in place to hold the lift in case of rope or chain failure.
• Automatic mechanisms are installed to prevent the lift from moving beyond its intended range.

XYZ Corp's older lifts, installed before the Act's enforcement, have been reviewed by the Chief Inspector, who has allowed their continued use under specific safety conditions.

Should XYZ Corp have any special types of lifts that may not be practical to conform entirely to the Act's requirements, they may seek an exemption from the State Government for those specific cases.