Crane Inspection Protocols: Timing, Importance, and Best Practices

On any job site, safety must always be the most critical consideration. Statistics show that for 2019, more than 5,000 workers died while doing their jobs. 20% of these fatalities were in the construction sector, highlighting the need for regular on-site equipment inspection.

Cranes are an essential piece of equipment on any construction or manufacturing site. Therefore, site workers must follow safety guidelines and regulations correctly. This includes scheduling both frequent and periodic inspections.

In this blog post, we will highlight the when, why, and how of crane inspections. So read on!

Requirements for Crane Inspections

As per the 1910.179 standard from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, ASME B30.2, and State Regulations, several requirements for carrying our satisfactory crane inspections are required.

A routine crane safety inspection schedule for cranes is essential to enhance workplace safety. Therefore, before the initial use of a crane, a full inspection is a must.

Only qualified OSHA inspectors are authorized to perform crane inspections. There are two types of inspections with regards to cranes: frequent inspections and periodic inspections.

At Kor-Pak, we offer a comprehensive array of Overhead Crane Services, including thorough inspections. On completion of inspections, a full written report is provided listing all deficiencies and recommendations.

What You Should Inspect Frequently

There is a range of inspections that should take place regularly, for example, weekly or monthly.

These include:

• Cracked or deformed hooks
• Maladjustments that interfere with normal operations
• Leakage in hydraulic systems, pumps, valves, etc.
• Defective hoist chains
• Wire rope reeving system issues

At Kor-Pak, we provide repairs, modernizations, upgrades, training, and 24/7 support. We also prove a complete line of cranes and hoists for various industrial applications.

What You Should Inspect Periodically

Periodic inspections should occur at least several times a year. At each inspection, it’s essential to check on the following parts:

• Loose rivets or bearings
• Worn tires
• Unsafe power plants
• Brake and clutch system issues
• Wear to chain drive sprockets
• Overstretch of chains
• Electrical apparatus issues
• Inaccuracy in indicators

To ensure the proper maintenance of your crane, both frequent and periodic inspections should be scheduled into your calendar well in advance.

Your crane equipment’s age and current condition will also play a part in determining how frequently you should carry out inspections.

Schedule Regular Crane Inspections

Cranes are responsible for various jobs within the construction and manufacturing industries. They are beneficial for lifting heavy loads.

As with any other type of equipment, cranes can experience wear and tear over time. The above crane inspection checklist includes essential features of a crane that a qualified OSHA inspector should inspect.

Kor-Pak is your No. 1 team to contact if you seek quality crane inspections that meet all OSHA 1910.179, ASME B30.2, and State Regulations.

We help to ensure the smooth running of your business’s most essential equipment.