Eye Bolts Are Small, But the Safety Standards Behind Them Are Mighty
Eye bolts might seem like a minor detail on site—but they carry major responsibility. Whether you’re lifting, rigging, or securing structures, getting the British Standard (BS) right isn’t optional—it’s essential.
So, what is the BS standard for eye bolts, and why should it matter to you?
Understanding the BS Standard for Eye Bolts in the UK
🔧 BS 4278 – The British Gold Standard
The primary BS standard covering eye bolts is BS 4278:1968, which applies to collared and shoulder lifting eye bolts. It defines:
Design specifications
Thread sizes
Material requirements
Load limits (including axial and angular loading)
This standard ensures eye bolts are suitable for safe lifting operations, and if you’re working in the UK, it’s the first one you need to know.
🌍 BS EN ISO 3266 – The European Standard Also Used in the UK
Also relevant is BS EN ISO 3266:2010, which outlines the design and testing of forged steel eye bolts with metric threads. It’s used alongside BS 4278 and ensures compliance across EU and UK lifting practices.
PUWER 1998 – Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations
PUWER ensures all equipment is:
Maintained
Used safely
Inspected where necessary
🛠 What You Should Check on Every Eye Bolt:
If BS 4278 Standard Summary – BSI Group, The eye bolt doesn’t have these, don’t use it:
Manufacturer’s identification
Safe Working Load (SWL)
BS or ISO standard marking
Batch/serial number (for traceability)
If there’s no stamp, there’s no guarantee.
Don’t Let a £2 Bolt Cause a £20,000 Problem
In the world of commercial cleaning, construction, and property maintenance, safety gear gets a lot of attention. But what about the little components that literally hold the operation together?
One of the most underestimated but critical items on any site is the humble eye bolt. Call 0800 035 4142, get tested, be safe.
📢 Testimonial
“We never cut corners when it comes to lifting. Ensuring every bolt we use meets BS 4278 or ISO 3266 isn’t just about compliance — it’s about trust.”
— Lee Clark, Director, CCWC Services
