An air manipulator hoist is an engineering control that may help reduce heavy or repetitive lifting. The hoist has a stationary cable that can be hung from an immovable object.  A standard 5 HP air compressor powers the movable cable attached to the load. 

An air manipulator hoist has a stationary cable exiting one side, and a movable cable exiting the other (Figure 1).  The stationary cable has a hook at the end, which is hung from a fixed object.  The movable cable is secured to the object being moved.  A 3/8 inch air supply hose connects the hoist to a 5 HP air compressor to provide a lifting force.  The hoists have up and down buttons that can be pushed with one hand.  The other hand can stabilize the load, if needed.  There are many manufacturers of air manipulator hoists.

Figure 1. The Harrington AH Manipulator Control Air Hoist (Photo courtesy of Harrington Hoists, Inc.)

An air manipulator hoist can increase productivity on the worksite.

All air manipulator hoists should be operated in compliance with the operator’s manual.

Since air manipulator hoists are fixed in one place, their use may be limited at construction worksites.

Dan Anton, PT, PhD, ATC; Kevin Wright, SPT; and Benjamin Tucker, SPT  – Eastern Washington University

• Heavy Equipment
  • Rig, load and transport materials and equipment
    • Lifting and Carrying (Manual materials Handling)
    • Stooped postures