Which is the correct term to describe the lifting capacity of lifting equipment, i.e. Safe Working Load (SWL), Working Load Limit (WLL) or Rated Capacity?
The answer to this is that they are all correct and the choice of which to use is really dependant on the use of the equipment, as the following information will explain.
The working load limit, or maximum working load as defined in the Supply legislation, is the load value assigned to the ‘maximum’ safe working load under ideal conditions and in most cases the working load limit and the safe working load will be the same. However, depending upon the conditions of use, it may be necessary for the competent person to reduce this to a lower safe working value and it is in these cases that the working load limit and safe working load will differ.
The rated capacity is the same as working load limit and is a term used for some cranes where the rating varies with configuration.
