13mm, Grade 8 Long Link Chains

In 2007 the Health and Safety Laboratory on behalf of HSE conducted tests on two types of 13mm, Grade 8 Long Link Chains, one manufactured by the Columbus McKinnon Corporation (with the trade name 'Special Theatrical Alloy Chain' (STAC)), and the other thought to have been manufactured by The Crosby Group.  As of October 2010, HSE and the Health and Safety Laboratory, Buxton have been made aware that Crosby Group USA, and Crosby Europe did not manufacture 13 mm Long Link G8 Chain in 2007, or prior to that.

HSE is also aware that there is currently a degree of uncertainty and confusion about the status and acceptable uses of long link chain in the theatre and events industries.  HSE is currently considering this issue with a view to providing clarification to the industry in due course.  The current position, as required by the Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008 which implements Directive 2006/42 on machinery, remains that when chains with welded links are used for lifting, they are to be of the short link type.

Any queries concerning this Statement should be addressed either to Cameron Adam at cameron.adam@hse.gsi.gov.uk or to Melvin Sandell at melvin.sandell@hse.gsi.gov.uk.