REID LIFTING PORTA GANTRY Series Installation instructions

REIDLIFTING.COM Assembly & Operation Guide
PORTAGANTRY 500-3000

Correct Operation 4
Intended Use
Inspection Prior to Initial Operation
Inspection Before Starting Work
Maximum Capacity
Temperature Range
Notes for Correct Operation
Warning
Traversing the Load
Moving under Load
Fall Protection
Additional Notes for Correct Operation
Warning
IRATA
Inspection & Maintenance 8
Regular Inspections
Maintenance & Repair
Storage & Transportation
ATEX 9
ATEX
Classification [Zone 2]
Classification [Zone 1]
Spark Formation
Static Electricity
Inspection, Maintenance & Repair
Notes 11
Assembly Instructions 12
Variants & Options 17
Dimensions 20
Quality & Safety 24
Regulations, Standards & Directives
Accreditations
Conformité Européenne [CE]
The Queen’s Award for Enterprise
Testing
Language
Product IPR
Product Labelling 26
Inspection Record 27
Contents

3
PORTAGANTRY 500-3000
Lightweight.
Portable. Safe.
Please read the following instructions and
guidance notes carefully, before using or
operating the system.
They contain important information about how to
handle and use the system in a safe and efficient
way, avoiding danger, reducing repair costs
and downtime, and increasing the reliability and
lifespan of the system.
They apply for:
Operation, including preparation,
troubleshooting during operation and
cleaning
Maintenance, inspection and repair
Transportation
It is the responsibility of the end user to adhere
to the Health & Safety and accident prevention
standards and legislation valid in their respective
countries and any regions in which the system is
being used. It is also incumbent on the user or
competent person to ensure that anyone working
with the equipment has the necessary medical
and physical capabilities. A rescue plan also needs
to be in place in the event of an emergency that
could occur during the work. This document
should form part of the overriding Risk Assessment
and Method Statement required for each lift.

Intended Use
This product is intended to be used for the lifting of
goods, the lifting of personnel, rope access or for
providing a safety anchor for the prevention of falls.
It is expected that all users of this product have the
necessary medical and physical capabilities, are fully
trained and competent in its safe assembly and use.
Inspection Prior to Initial Operation
This product must be inspected prior to initial
operation by a competent person to ensure that the
structure is safe and that it has not been damaged
by incorrect assembly, transport or storage.
Inspection Before Starting Work
Before starting work, the assembly of the product
and all load-bearing components should be
checked for visual defects. This includes checking
the integrity of all profiles for denting, making sure
there is no wear or elongation on the bolt holes
and ensuring that the trolley moves freely along
the beam.
Correct Operation
Maximum Capacity
Goods Lifting: This product is designed to lift
and lower loads up to its rated capacity. Do not
exceed the working load limit indicated on the
product.
Personnel Lifting: When lifting people, the
overall load limit is reduced by half to provide an
increased safety factor. The maximum capacity
permitted by the personnel winch/accessory used
in conjunction with this product also needs to be
considered.
Temperature Range
This product can be operated in ambient dry
temperatures between –20°C and +55°C (-4°F
and 131°F). Consult your supplier in case of
extreme working conditions. If used in sub-
zero and wet conditions, fall arrest appliances
characteristics may change.
Notes for Correct Operation
Assemble only as instructed (ensure all
bolts are present and fitted correctly as per
instructions)
Suitable, appropriately rated winches and
connection plates must be used for all
applications
The product should be set up at a safe
distance from the hazard or lift area, before
moving the structure into place
The supporting ground/structure where
the gantry is to be used must be stable
and capable of withstanding the maximum
expected load applied during use
We recommend that gloves are worn when
using the equipment
The beam must be horizontal prior to any lift
and A-Frames vertical and parallel to each
other
Do not use the product if the trolley does
not run freely along the beam. (For certain
applications, such as when the system is being
used as a restraint point, the trolleys can be
locked into position)
Attach the hoist to the lifting point on the
trolley only, making sure it is attached in a way
that does not expose the user to danger by
the hoist, chain or load

5
PORTAGANTRY 500-3000
Only raise and lower loads when castor brakes
are engaged
Do not allow the load to swing
To avoid side pull, lowering and lifting should
only be carried out when the load chain forms
a straight and vertical line between the load
and lifting attachment point on the trolley.
(Refer to figure A)
We recommend the use of load-sensing or
overload protection devices on all lifts
The risk assessment and method statement
must take into account any factors that might
apply additional loading to the system during
lifting operations
Take care when transporting and storing the
system to avoid damage
To ensure stability of the structure, the
operating span of the beam must be equal
to or greater than the distance between the
castors on the A-Frame
Warning
The equipment should not be used outside
of its limitations, or for any purpose other than
that for which it is intended
Do not lift or transport loads while personnel
are in the danger zone
Do not allow personnel to pass under a
suspended load
Never leave a suspended load unattended
Do not start moving the load along the beam
until you have checked that it has been
attached correctly
Don’t allow the load to hit the system frame
When winching, only use one winch with each
sheave and make sure they never cross paths
with each other
Be aware of any adverse weather conditions
such as strong or gusty winds which could
impose additional horizontal loads and affect
the stability of the structure. Stop using if
weather is impacting on lifting, and either
disassemble the gantry or tie it to a rigid
structure to ensure it can’t overturn
Be aware of hazards when setting up/folding
down, such as trapping fingers in rotating
parts
Traversing the Load
This product is designed so that the load can be
traversed along the beam using the trolley. When
moving a loaded trolley along the beam, move
the load steadily and in a controlled manner and
avoid sudden movements
At larger capacities and/or longer beams this
action can become difficult. REID recommends
that a rope control system be used to reduce
the effort and provide more control over the
movement.
The rope control system allows the operator to
control the movement of the trolley from a safe
location at the side of the gantry. This system
includes a winch and series of pulleys that
introduce a mechanical advantage and reduce the
effort during operation.
A

Moving under Load
When moving the gantry underload, the
following instructions MUST be followed:
This product can only be moved in the
direction perpendicular to the beam
Directional locks must be used on the castors
(perpendicular to the beam only)
The end user MUST make sure the center of
gravity of the load is known and the lifting
points are in such a way that the load is
EQUALLY distributed, so the load generates a
vertical pull to the beam.
The load is not allowed to swing
The floor must be smooth, flat, free from cracks
or steps and the weather conditions should be
safe for the operation (i.e. not when frost, ice or
snow present)
A risk assessment and method statement are
required to be completed by a competent
person before moving the gantry under load
The gantry’s movement must be controlled at
a slow speed, no sudden movements or high
speeds are allowed.
Fall Protection
When being used as part of a fall protection
system the user must use a body harness and
retractable device or shock absorber to EN355 that
limits the maximum allowed force (M.A.F.) to 6kN.
Winches used with the system should comply to
EN1496:2017 or equivalent.
In the event of simultaneous goods and personnel
combined lifting/ fall arrest or when being used as
a fall arrest system in sub-zero and wet conditions
contact the supplier as capacities may be reduced.
Only one person should be attached to each
trolley in accordance with the notified working
load limit (WLL). Each lift must be properly
planned, and all weights clearly known along with
the WLL and constraints of all personal fall arrest
system components.
The capabilities stated in the table below apply to
standard range systems only. If unsure about your
system consult serial labels, information filled in on
page 27 or consult your supplier. Bespoke versions
of the system are available tailored to specific
lifting needs. These versions are designated with
a ‘C’ at the end the product number on the serial
label attached to each A-Frame and beam.
For custom designed gantries please contact your
supplier for appropriate rating and capabilities.
Correct Operation
*Only Applicable to PORTA GANTRY systems being used in
accordance with PD CEN/TS 16415:2013. When being used in
accordance with EN795:2012, the structure shall be limited to a
maximum of one user in fall arrest.
Application Capacity
Goods [kg] 500 1000 2000 3000
Fall Arrest* 3 persons 3 persons 5 persons 5 persons
Max. Combined Personnel
Lifting Capacity [kg] 250 400 750 1000
This product has different ratings depending
upon the application as detailed in the table
below:

7
PORTAGANTRY 500-3000
Additional Notes for Correct Operation
Ensure suitable and appropriately rated
winches and connection plates are used for all
applications
The fall arrest device must only be attached
to the lifting points on the trolley or to the
approved brackets
Never walk away from the structure whilst
connected to the equipment (either by winch or
fall arrest block)
Only use the product for fall arrest applications
when the castor brakes are engaged
When using the product as a fall arrest anchor
ensure there is adequate fall clearance when
working at height (Refer to figure B)
Always consider the potential effects of
sharp edges, chemical reagents, electrical
conductivity, cutting, abrasion, climatic
exposure on the fall protection lifelines, and the
effect of offset forces as a result of pendulum
falls
When being used for fall protection, the user
must remain within the footprint of the product
Where required by regulation, each installation
must be approved by a qualified person
Warning
When using for fall protection, only use one
lifeline with each trolley/sheave and make sure
they never cross paths with each other
If more than one person is attached to the
gantry, make sure that working procedures
prevent individual lifelines from crossing and
becoming tangled
When using the product in conjunction with
another manufacturers fall protection products,
ensure that you have read the instructions for
use of those product to ensure their suitability
and any restrictions for use.
It is not recommended to mix the use of
the gantry with personnel and goods lifting
simultaneously.
It is essential for safety that the product is
withdrawn from use immediately and not be
used again until confirmed in writing by a
competent person should,
1. Any doubt arises about its condition for
safe use or;
2.It has been used to arrest a fall
IRATA
This product is suitable for rope access and has
been tested to 15kN. Static load as per test re-
quirements of IRATA international code of practice
(ICOP).
B

The following information is based on REID
Lifting’s recommendations and does not remove
the responsibility of the user to comply with the
relevant regulations and standards that are valid
in the respective countries and regions where the
system is being used.
Regular Inspections
To ensure that the product’s frame remains in
safe working order it must be inspected regularly
by a competent person. We recommend
inspections every 6 months for personnel lifting
and every 12 months for goods only, unless
adverse working conditions or profile of use
dictate shorter periods. The components of the
system frame need to be checked for damage,
wear, corrosion or other irregularities. It may be
necessary to disassemble the system frame in
order to do this. Particular attention should be
paid to checking the profiles for denting, making
sure there is no wear or elongation on the bolt
holes and ensuring that the trolley moves freely
along the beam.
Any necessary repairs should only be carried
out by an approved specialist workshop using
original spare parts. It is recommended that once
inspected or repaired, the device is marked with
the date of the next inspection.
Inspections are instigated by the user. If detailed
information is required on inspection and test
criteria, please refer to your supplier’s technical
department. The equipment Inspection Record
is on page 27.
If using the product in explosive atmospheres,
see additional section titled ATEX.
Maintenance & Repair
In order to ensure correct operation, the
conditions for inspection and maintenance must
be complied with. If any defects are found, stop
using the product immediately.
No alterations or additions to the equipment
should be made without the written consent of
the manufacturer. Any repair must be carried
out in accordance with the manufacturer’s
procedures.
It is recommended to maintain the equipment in
a clean and dry manner. Cleaning is suggested
using a sponge or cloth with warm, soapy water,
rinsing and allowing to dry.
Storage & Transportation
When transporting the components, take note of
all the manual handling considerations.
Do not throw the product down or stack any
items on top of it.
Always place carefully and security on the
ground to avoid damaging the equipment.
Inspection & Maintenance

9
PORTAGANTRY 500-3000
ATEX
This product has been designed for use in
explosive atmospheres in line with the following
requirements and information. Any use which
differs or exceeds this is considered incorrect
and REID Lifting Ltd will not accept any
responsibility or liability for damages resulting
from false application. The risk is solely with the
user. If the product has been customised in
any way, then it may not comply with standards
and no longer be suitable for use in explosive
atmospheres. If this is the case, then the product
will not have any of the markings below. If in
doubt, please contact your REID representative.
Classification [Zone 2]
As standard, the product meets the requirements
of Category 3 equipment for use in Zone 2
explosive atmospheres, providing a normal level
of protection where mixtures of air and gases,
vapours or mists or by air and dusts mixtures are
unlikely to occur or, if they do occur, are likely
to do so only infrequently and for a short period
only.
The product will have the following identification
on the serial label:
As Standard for Zone 2 Environments:
II 3 GD T6
Identification for protection against explosions
II: Unit group II – non-mining application
3: Category 3 – Normal safety for use in Zone 2
GD: For use in gas (G) & dust (D) atmospheres
T6: Temperature class – Max 85°C
Classification [Zone 1]
Available as an upgrade, the product can
be supplied to meet the requirements of
Category 2 equipment for use in Zone 1
explosive atmospheres, providing a high level
of protection where mixtures of air and gases,
vapours, mists or by air and dusts mixtures are
likely to occur.
The product will have the following identification
on the serial label:
As an Upgrade for use in Zone 1 Environments:
II 2 GD T6
Identification for protection against explosions
II: Unit group II – non-mining application
2: Category 2 – High safety for use in Zone 1
GD: For use in gas (G) & dust (D) atmospheres
T6: Temperature class – Max 85°C
ATEX

Spark Formation
There is an increased danger of ignition when
certain material pairings clash, namely non-
corrosion-resistant steel or cast iron against
aluminium, magnesium or pertinent alloys. This
applies especially in the case of rust or surface
rust. When assembling the product and inserting
fastening components, these must therefore be
clear of rust and debris of any kind. As stated
previously, care must be taken to ensure the
gantry is handled in a suitable manner, never
thrown down and always placed carefully onto
the ground.
For Zone 1 and 2 applications, the height of
the sytem should not be adjusted using the
ratchet mechanism and/or geared wheel
within those zones
REID recommends the use of corrosion
resistant tools when assembling this system to
prevent the possibility of any sparks.
For ATEX Zone 1 use, stainless steel castor
brackets are fitted to reduce the possibility of
a spark.
Static Electricity
For Zone 2 applications, there is a potential
risk of static electricity build-up leading to
an incentive spark. Although the risk of such
ignition is unlikely, the system must be earthed
during assembly and use. This can be achieved
by attaching an earthing lead to a convenient
location on metallic parts of both the system and
trolley.
For additional protection in Zone 1 applications,
the system is fitted with anti-static trolley rollers,
stainless steel fasteners and therefore does not
need to be earthed.
However, the effectiveness of the conductivity
during operation can be affected by a dirty tread
or other environmental influences and therefore
must be checked periodically by the operator.
Inspection, Maintenance & Repair
Special attention should be given to dust
deposits on the structure, especially in areas
where the profiles come into contact, and should
be wiped clean and care taken not to apply
materials that could create electrostatic charging.
Additionally, the bearings in the trolley rollers
and castors should be checked to ensure they
rotate freely.
The structure is predominantly constructed from
aluminium which will not rust. However, there
are steel components used throughout. These
are; fasteners, castors, master-link, trolley rollers,
A-frame height adjustment gearing system (if
fitted) and the height adjustment ratchet (if
fitted).
Where there is sign of any rust deposits on the
aluminum structure, it should be wiped clean
as above and, where there is sign of rust on a
steel component, that component should be
removed from use and the structure not used
until a replacement is fitted.
If using the product in explosive atmospheres,
in addition to the Regular Inspection and
Maintenance information above, these additional
instructions should be followed:
Inspections must be instigated by the user
prior to each use if used in a potentially
explosive atmosphere.
Inspections and maintenance must be carried
out at a safe distance away from an explosive
atmosphere.
ATEX

11
PORTAGANTRY 500-3000
Notes

Bolts, Nuts &
Washers
Cheek Plate
Hockey Stick
Strut Handle
Strut
Trolley
Beam
Adjustable
Upright
Trap Plate
Leg
Lockable Castors
Leg Brace
The PORTA GANTRY and its constituent components are described in the image below.
Appropriate PPE should be worn: Gloves Protective Footwear Hard Hat
Assembly Instructions

Assemble each A-Frame by:
Positioning legs and bolt in place
Attaching leg brace
The unit is most easily assembled with the
A-Frames at their lowest height setting and
this is the recommended position to start
from.
13
PORTAGANTRY 500-3000
The PORTA GANTRY system is delivered flat
packed on a pallet and should include:
2 x A-Frames
1 Trolley
Beam (sometimes shipped separately)
Gantry Tool Set (supplied as an option):
Ratchet handle 1/2” sq drive
24mm socket
24mm combination spanner
14mm long series allen key
14mm Hex key socket
Apply the castor brakes
Put brakes on only with protective footwear
ensuring that the castors are in the orientation
shown
This illustration demonstrates how an A-frame will
arrive, prior to its assembly.
Lock castors in orientation shown. Do not use hands!
1 2 3
44a 5

Bolt 2
Bolt 1
The gantry beam has adjustment holes to narrow the
footprint of the gantry. This is best done when the gantry
is assembled with 2 persons sliding the A-frame inwards
while 1-2 persons steady the gantry by holding the beam
– this will require the use of a step ladder. If this process
is required to be carried out often then an upgrade to
‘lobed cheek plates’ can be purchased which allows
the gantry to be assembled as steps 8-21 but with one
A-frame inward from the end of the beam.
This illustration demonstrates the bolt positions
(1 & 2) for the cheek plates.
Lay the two A-Frames a beam length apart on a
flat surface in line with each other with the castor
wheels outward and brakes on
Lay the beam on the A-Frames, resting on bolt 1
on each cheek plate
Thread the beam trolley over the other end
of the beam and lock with the friction brake at
approximately centre position. If using a gated
trolley, lock with the friction break
Offer one end of the beam to the rear bolt-hole
on the cheek-plate (bolt 1) and insert a bolt
Put on plain washer, spring washer then nut,
finger tight
Assembly Instructions
Carry out a pre-assembly visual check to ensure
the following parts are included;
Beam
Trolley
2 x A-Frames
Tool Set (Option)
7 8
910
6
9a

15
PORTAGANTRY 500-3000
Offer opposite side of beam to the rear bolt-hole
on the cheek-plate (bolt 1) and insert bolt
Put on plain washer, spring washer then nut,
finger tight
With the help of another person, scissor the beam
and A-Frame into position (using the first bolt as
a hinge). Be careful not to trap any fingers in this
operation
Insert the second bolt into the cheek-plate.
Tighten both bolts until spring washer is fully
depressed, be cautious not to overtighten
At this stage it is useful to attach the lifting device
to the trolley in order to avoid having to lift and
attach when gantry is fully erect.
This avoids a working at height problem when
attaching a hoist
Keep hands clear of potential “Pinch” area marked with
warning tape, in the scissoring system. The chain hoist
must be positioned at the opposite end of beam.
Move trolley to other end of beam, opposite to
the end to be raised, and secure by tightening
the trolley knob
Repeat the scissor activity at the opposite end of
the gantry
For additional safety, a spare bolt can be
temporarily placed in the adjustment point.
13
11
14
12
15 16

on one A-Frame (a 2 man operation – one
on the bolts and one on the upright) by
removing 2 x upright securing bolts and
moving the upright to the appropriate
setting by lifting from the strut handle
Re-secure with bolts, nuts and washers
(do not over tighten). Repeat the height
adjustment at the opposite end
The gantry is now erect at its lowest height setting.
Release trolley brake and castor brakes to position
the gantry over the load ensuring, when possible,
that the load is lifted from the center of the beam
Beam height adjustment bolts (2 bolts on each upright).
Tighten all bolts to 27 Nm (20 ft lbs) or until spring washers
are fully depressed.
Assembly Instructions
Insert and tighten the final beam bolt
Decide on the height required (always using the
lowest possible setting for the work in hand).
Adjust the upright position
If the hoist is not already attached to the
suspension point on the trolley, do so now (using
stepladder if height setting requires)
If this is not safe, disassemble the gantry and
re-start adding the hoist prior to scissoring the
A-Frames
Ensure the beam is horizontal and
castors are locked prior to any lift.
21
20 20a
19
17 18

17
PORTAGANTRY 500-3000
Variants &
Options.

The list below outlines additional variants and
options available;
Wind Up Jack Legs
Ratchet Beam Elevation System
Conversion to Winched Configuration
Customised Configurations
Wind Up Jack Leg Option (WUJL)
WUJL’S can be fitted to the gantry. This provides
additional fine height adjustment (up to 250mm).
Each foot may be adjusted independently
providing a method of levelling the system on
uneven ground.
If wind up jack legs are fitted the following
points must be observed:
Check whether the castors fitted are Load
Rated or Pneumatic.
N.B. For pneumatic (non load bearing) castors
the WUJL system must always be applied prior
to performing any lift. If load rated castors are
fitted the operator can choose whether the
castors or WUJL take the load on each foot of
the gantry
When manoeuvring the gantry, always have
the jack legs in the ‘parked’ position as shown
in figure 1.
Position the gantry for the lift before setting
the height with the jack
Before lifting ensure all jacks are in the correct
lifting position and are secured with locking
pins and clips as shown in figure 2
Manually raise each leg in turn and set the
height by rotating jack handle clockwise
Having set the adjustment of all four legs,
ensure that the gantry uprights are vertical,
and the beam is horizontal
WUJL Inspection/Maintenance
The jack legs and brackets should be subjected
to periodic inspections by a competent person
in line with the products inspection and
maintenance guidelines. It is recommended
that when not in use the jack legs are removed
and stored in a clean and dry manner. The jack
leg should be lubricated with EP2 grease on the
internal thread and gears, at regular intervals (up
to 6 months maximum), depending on service
conditions.
Variants & Options
Wind Up Jack Leg in ‘parked’ position
Jacks secured with locking pins and clips
Fig 1
Fig 2

19
PORTAGANTRY 500-3000
Ratchet Beam Elevation System
Option
(Two person operation recommended – one on
each A-Frame)
Always wear gloves when using this item.
Ensure the hook at the end of ratchet strap is
positively engaged within the bottom hole of
the A-Frame upright
Remove lower bolt on trap plate
Tension ratchet strap to take the upright/beam
weight
Remove upper bolt on trap plate
Operate ratchet to adjust height to required
setting, ensuring that the bolt holes are aligned
as in figure 3
Re-insert upper bolt and nut/washer assembly
Ease tensioned strap aside, re-insert lower bolt
and secure.
Repeat steps 2-8 on the second A-Frame,
ensuring that the gantry uprights are vertical,
and the beam is horizontal
Check all bolts on the gantry are sufficiently
secure by ensuring all spring washers are fully
depressed
Easy Conversion to Winched
Configuration
A Winch Kit and accessories can be supplied to
convert the System into a winch capable system.
Please contact your REID Representative for
further details and requirements.
Customised Configurations
For customised systems additional assembly
and operation information may be provided as
required.
Operate Ratchet
Ratchet in ‘parked’ position
Fig 3
Fig 4

Dimensions
A
F
C
H
G
D
B
E
Beam length
Beam adjustment
Clear operating span
Height to lifting eye
Height increment
Height to top of beam
Width
Height to top of roller
PORTAGANTRY
A
E
B
F
C
G
H
D