Crane & Hoist Safety

Training

All hoist and crane operators shall be trained, qualified, and authorized by a qualified trainer on the inspection, operation, and rigging of loads for cranes and hoists. Training should include both classroom and hands on evaluations.

Inspecting

Crane and hoists and their equipment should be inspected at several frequencies:

• Initial – An initial inspection shall be conducted before using any new, reinstalled, and altered crane to ensure safety and compliance.
• Daily – Daily visual inspections should be performed by the operator before the crane or hoist is used. If a crane or hoist is not used daily, the inspection should be completed prior to use. In addition to the daily inspection, operators shall observe cranes, hoists, and riggings during operation to identify defects or safety/operational issues that may occur between inspections.
• Frequent – A frequent inspection should be completed by a qualified and authorized employee. The frequency of the inspection is based on the nature of the critical components of the crane and the degree of their exposure to wear, deterioration, or malfunction. Typically, frequent inspections are completed on daily to monthly intervals.
• Periodic – A periodic inspection should be completed by a qualified and authorized employee or contractor. The frequency of the inspection is based on the crane or hoists activity, severity of service, and environmentally. Typically, periodic inspections are completed on 1 to 12-month intervals.

 Lifting Devices

Crane and hoists utilize various lifting devices to move or suspend loads. It is imperative that these devices be inspected prior to use and periodically to ensure that they are in proper working condition, and free from any damage that could compromise their integrity. The following are some of these lifting devices and what to look for when inspecting them for prior to use:

• Chain  – Inspect links and welds for any deformation or damage. Remove chain slings from service if a lengthening of 5% or greater occurs, or if a link becomes bent, twisted or otherwise damaged. A load shall not be lifted with a chain having a kink or knot in it. A chain shall not be shortened by bolting, wiring or knotting.
• Slings – Can be made of synthetic material (i.e. polyester, nylon) or metal mesh.
• Wire Rope – Wire rope can be useful as it is both flexible and strong. It can be fitted snugly around loads. However, it can be difficult to inspect and susceptible to corrosion.

It is imperative that these devices be inspected prior to use and periodically to ensure that they are in proper working condition, and free from any damage that could compromise their integrity.