Vestil DLT series - Manual (Page 8)

Step 4: Engage the die with the tongs. Lower the tongs around the die (photos 4-6). The angled teeth
(circled in photo 4) will follow the surface of the die as the hoist lowers the tongs. Adjust the position of the
tongs to allow ALL 4 teeth to make solid contact with the die (photo 7).
Step 5: Test the balance of the die in the tongs. Grasp the hoist hook to add stability (see photo 8) and
raise the die just a few inches from the ground (or other supporting surface). If the die slides or hangs lower
on one side of the tongs, it is improperly balanced. Return it to the ground/supporting surface and
immobilize it. Reposition the tongs to improve the contact with the die: move the tongs slightly towards the
side that hung lower when you tested the balance; then raise the object again to see if the die is now
balanced. DO NOT proceed to the next step until the load is properly balanced. If you cannot achieve a
stable hold of the die with the tongs, DO NOT use the tongs. Use a different device to lift and move the die.
Step 6: Raise the die. Steady the tongs and load by grasping the hoist hook. Lift the load to approximately
waist height, while maintaining a grip on the hook.
Review all hazard safety messages (p.5) and always follow these rules when using the tongs:
1. NEVER lift material over yourself or other persons. Inform persons in the area that you will be using the
tongs and make sure that no one is in the starting point, path of travel, or end point.
2. DO NOT press down on the die. Grasp ONLY the hoist hook to stabilize the load while raising, lowering
and/or moving it to a new location.
3. Always stand at arm’s length to the side of the load and hold onto the hook as shown in photos 9-12.
Make sure that your clothing, feet, and body generally DO NOT get underneath the load. This stance
allows the operator to exercise some control of the die while maximizing operator safety.
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