What is a spreader bar, and when must I use one to lift an RTU

Plain-English answer

A Spreader Bar is a rigid structural steel beam framework connected directly between the primary crane hook and the lifting slings. * You must use a spreader bar when lifting wide or fragile architectural RTU units to keep the lifting cables running perfectly vertical down to the equipment chassis lifting lugs. Without a spreader bar, the diagonal tension strings will pull inward, crushing the top sheet metal panels and destroying the internal coils.

Field checklist

• Stop and verify the approved detail, manufacturer instructions, foreman direction, and project specs before touching it.
• A Spreader Bar is a rigid structural steel beam framework connected directly between the primary crane hook and the lifting slings. * You must use a spreader bar when lifting wide or...

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Use this as training guidance. The foreman, approved drawings, project specs, manufacturer installation instructions, employer safety policy, and AHJ/code requirements always control the final answer.

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