If you’ve never worked with a crane before, you may be a bit intimidated. After all, these vital pieces of industrial equipment can help or hinder the safety of your employees and the productivity of your operation. Today, we share four important things that all crane operators, maintenance personnel, and plant supervisors should know about inspection frequency and procedures.
Your inspector must be qualified.
The Crane Manufacturers Association of America has created guidelines for overhead crane inspection professionals. These individuals must have no less than 2000 “field” hours of direct service, maintenance, operation, and functional testing experience. Your crane inspector must also be formally trained in safety, codes, operating practices, and documentation.
The initial inspection is just the beginning.
You probably noticed that there was an extensive inspection directly after initial installation. This overhead crane inspection would have been carried out according to OSHA 1910.179. Even once found compliant, your crane is still subject to daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly inspections. How often your crane is inspected is largely determined by its use and whether or not it has been modified, damaged, altered, or repaired.
You must perform a functional test inspection every day.
We mentioned previously that you would still have to do a daily overhead crane inspection. This is your functional test that happens at the beginning of each shift. Your crane operator or other designated individual will do a visual test of the hydraulic system, chains and pulleys, hooks, ropes, and all operating mechanisms.
A thorough inspection is much cheaper than the alternative.
Overhead crane inspection is a significant business expense. However, the amount you pay for your professional crane inspector’s services and expertise is much less than the fees you may incur if one of your employees is injured because of a faulty crane. Further, production stoppages can add up quickly, and your company’s reputation may be irrevocably ruined by an incident caused by blatant neglect. It is always best to ensure that each inspection is carried out by a qualified individual.
Ultimately, the safety of your staff and the profits of your company depend heavily on how well your equipment is monitored and maintained. When it comes to your overhead crane equipment, inspections are just one of many safeguards that you should have in place to protect your employees and your investment.
Do you need emergency service or information on design and engineering for your runway systems? Contact Integrity Crane And Hoist today, and let us show you why our technicians are the best in the business.