Do You Need a Slinger Licence to Use a Clad Boy Vacuum Lifter?
If you’ve worked with cranes or lifting gear, you’ve likely heard of a “slinger license.” But what does it mean? Do you need one to operate a vacuum lifter, such as the Clad Boy?
Let’s break it down.
What Is a Slinger Licence?
A “slinger licence” is short for the CPCS Slinger/Signaller card (or NPORS/ALLMI equivalent). This qualification is for those who:
- Attach and detach loads to cranes or lifting equipment.
- Use hand signals or radios to ensure the safety of crane operations.
This makes sure loads are rigged right. It also keeps communication clear between the slinger and the crane operator. It’s an important qualification for crane work.
So, Do You Need One for a Clad Boy? No – if you’re only using the vacuum lifter itself.
The Clad Boy is a “below-the-hook” vacuum lifter. It lifts panels using suction and doesn’t use chains, straps, or hooks. Thus, it has different regulations and training requirements.
To operate a Clad Boy safely, you need specific vacuum lifter training, not a slinger licence.
What Training Do You Need?
If you use a vacuum lifter on-site, including the Clad Boy, you should take a training course. Accredited courses are available, but they are general in nature. The accreditation is helpful, but it might not apply to the vacuum lifter you have. Each type and manufacturer varies slightly.
We offer Clad Boy-specific training at our location in East Yorkshire or online here.
What If You’re Using a Crane Too?
This gets a bit more complex.
- If you’re only attaching the Clad Boy to a crane hook, slinger/signaller training isn’t needed for you. But the person rigging the crane must have that training.
- You need a Slinger/Signaller qualification if you’re moving other loads or directing the crane.
Final Thoughts
If your team uses any vacuum lifter, it’s crucial they receive the right training. This isn’t just a formality; it helps protect people on-site and avoids costly errors.
So, you don’t need a “slinger licence” for a vacuum lifter. However, you do need specific, accredited, and up-to-date vacuum lifter training.
If you’re not sure about your team’s training needs, we can help. We can also arrange certified training for your new hire. Just get in touch here or call 0370 741 7600.
