The British Standard BS EN 13155 is the essential safety document for non-fixed load lifting attachments used with cranes, hoists, and manual load manipulating devices. It provides the technical framework for manufacturers and operators to ensure that "below-the-hook" equipment is designed and tested to prevent catastrophic failures. Understanding BS EN 13155
The current version of this standard is BS EN 13155:2020, which superseded the older 2003+A2:2009 edition. A further update, BS EN 13155:2020+A1:2025, has been introduced to incorporate the latest safety protocols and amendments. BS EN 13155:2020 | 31 Dec 2020 - BSI Knowledge
BS EN 13155 standard, titled "Cranes — Safety — Non-fixed load lifting attachments," is a harmonized European standard that specifies safety requirements for a wide range of detachable lifting attachments used with cranes and hoists. While many users search for a "free download," the official and legal copies of the latest version, BS EN 13155:2020
(and its upcoming amendments), are copyrighted documents typically available only for purchase or through authorized subscription services. BSI Knowledge Overview of BS EN 13155
This standard is essential for manufacturers, safety managers, and operators to ensure that "below-the-hook" attachments are designed and tested to prevent catastrophic failures, such as loads becoming unstable or breaking. It provides a framework for meeting the essential health and safety requirements of the EU Machinery Directive Https://Www.En-Standard.Eu Scope and Key Attachments
The standard covers diverse non-fixed lifting devices produced after its publication. Major categories include: iTeh Standards Plate Clamps : For lifting and turning steel plates. Vacuum Lifters : Including both self-priming and non-self-priming types. Lifting Magnets Bs En 13155 Pdf Free Download
: Covering electric (battery/mains), permanent, and electro-permanent models. Mechanical Accessories : Including Lifting Beams Lifting Forks , and various specialized Concrete Systems
: Specifically, lifting insert systems for normal-weight concrete. BSI Knowledge Mechanical Safety and Verification
To ensure structural integrity, the standard mandates rigorous verification methods: iTeh Standards Static and Fatigue Strength
: Requirements for mechanical load-bearing parts to withstand operational stress without failure. Testing Ratios
: For test-only verification, the equipment must generally withstand 2 × Working Load Limit (WLL) without permanent deformation and without releasing the load. Calculations The British Standard BS EN 13155 is the
: Manufacturers may also use calculation routes, often referencing the series for structural analysis. Https://Www.En-Standard.Eu Accessing the Standard
Accessing the full 116+ page document usually requires payment through official channels.
The standard BS EN 13155 specifies safety requirements for non-fixed load lifting attachments used with cranes and hoists. The latest current version as of April 2026 is BS EN 13155:2020+A1:2025 , which was recently updated to include new amendments. ANSI Webstore
While you can find unofficial previews or older versions (like 2003 or 2009) on various PDF sharing sites, official and fully updated copies must typically be purchased through authorized standards bodies to ensure compliance with legal safety obligations. Key Features of BS EN 13155
: Covers attachments like plate clamps, vacuum lifters, lifting magnets, lifting beams, C-hooks, and lifting forks. Mechanical Safety Public Libraries and Universities : Some public libraries
: Requires mechanical load-bearing parts to have a safety factor (typically at least 2) to prevent load slipping. Exclusions
: Does not cover hazards related to noise, electrical components, or the lifting of persons. Verification
: Provides informative guidelines (Annex A) for verifying mechanical strength without static tests using specific load cases ( Where to Access Access Type BSI Knowledge Paid (Official) Best for ensuring legal compliance in the UK. ANSI Webstore Free Preview Offers a 10-page preview of the 2025 amendment. Community Upload
Often contains older versions (e.g., 2020) but may be incomplete. Related Standards for Safe Lifting
BS en 13157 Cranes-Hand Powered Lifting Equipment | PDF - Scribd
Public Libraries and Universities: Some public libraries and university libraries offer access to standards, including BS EN standards, for free or at a low cost. It might be worth checking if your institution or local library provides such access.
Government and Standards Bodies: Sometimes, national standards bodies or governmental departments related to industry and standards may provide access to certain standards for free or at a reduced cost, especially if they are critical to public safety.
