A Look At Overhead Crane Inspections

By Eliza Mendoza


According to requirements set by department of safety, overhead crane inspections should be undertaken by all companies that have hoist machines. There are many benefits that come with comprehensive inspections. For example, cases of injured personnel will go down if proper assessments are undertaken. The specified productivity of the machine is also maintained and its service duration prolonged.

Effective assessments can only be possible if a company comes up with a plan or program that will guide its officials in executing the task. The first step in designing a quality inspection program is creation of controlled document manual which contains work instructions as well as procedures. The manual is supposed to be revised periodically so as to cater for changes in technology and legislation. It is through coming up with a manual that it will be possible to facilitate a systematic approach which is repeatable.

If a construction firm has a manual for guiding scrutiny exercises, then seamless transitions when managers are changed will be realized. The document will help train fresh recruits and identify existing plans to incoming management. The handbook is supposed to outline the responsibilities as well as authorities of various personnel.

Information on inspection forms to be done on different cranes in the plant will be sourced from the assessment handbook. It will serve inspectors with details on when assessment is to be done, how to document findings and the way to keep records. The manual should also state the criteria for reporting faults to the engineer in charge.

A program which is meant to control assessment processes is supposed to be closely monitored by an engineer who is certified in structure design and inspection. The responsible engineer should review and approve each inspection. To ensure that assessors meet the minimum quality standards in their work, the engineer should carry random inspections on already inspected cranes.

Throughout the assessment period, all the people involved in the process are supposed to follow the safety measures outlined by the company as well as the state and local authorities. The plant personnel should be notified in advance that there will be a scrutiny process. If there are other cranes in the field that will remain in operation, the proper measures should be put in place to ensure that they do not hit the one being inspected. Any stored mechanical energy like suspended load blocks should be released.

Safe access to all the parts and components of the crane to be assessed is required. If possible, the crane is supposed to be taken to an open place which is well lighted and is away from manufacturing activities. An examiner should be ready to climb tall ladders as well as walk on parts of runway so as to conduct effective exercise.

During overhead crane inspections the crew should have enough two way radio for communication purposes. They will also need protection materials such as a dust mask, gloves and coveralls. The company should supply the assessors with all necessary tools and equipment for their work.




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