
What are the most common mechanical hazards in cable pulling operations?
2025-08-16Mechanical hazards in cable pulling are the physical risks caused by the equipment and forces at play. These are often the most severe dangers on a job site.
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Snapping Ropes and Cables: A cable under excessive tension can suddenly snap or fail. When this happens, the stored energy in the cable and rope is released violently, causing a "whiplash" effect that can injure or kill workers in the vicinity. This is why our equipment features tensiometers with automatic shutdown to prevent over-tensioning.
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Uncontrolled Equipment Movement: Heavy cable drums can become unstable, and pulling winches can move or tip if not properly anchored. Workers can be caught between a moving drum and a stationary object.
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Pinch Points: Moving parts, such as capstans, sheaves, and rollers, create pinch points where fingers, hands, and clothing can get caught, leading to severe crushing injuries.