There are about 44 overhead crane accident-related deaths each year. Over three-fifths of these fatal injuries occur because of a falling object or piece of equipment.

Having a crane inspection done consistently can prevent mechanical accidents from happening.

Still not convinced? Keep reading to learn why crane inspections are necessary.

Why You Need a Crane Inspection

You need to have your crane inspected at least once a year to remain OSHA compliant. Staying in compliance with OSHA can protect your company from steep fines and lawsuits.

Heavy use of your crane will cause the essential components to wear and break down. Doing inspections more often will enable you to identify potential problems before they become costly or an accident occurs.

Who Inspects Your Crane?

When you choose a crane inspector, they should have experience directly related to repair, maintenance, service, and functional testing of cranes. They need to have attended the proper training, so they know all the applicable regulations and codes.

The inspector also needs formal training in these areas.

• Codes and standards: federal, state, and local
• Safe practice for operating a crane and hoist
• Relevant safety and design codes
• Knowledge of report writing and documentation
• Knowledge of terminology relating to cranes.

Types of Inspections

There are four official categories that inspections fall into, initial, functional frequent, and periodic. You need to get familiar with all of these inspections to ensure your crane stays safe for operation.

Initial Inspection

All newly installed cranes should have an inspection done before their first use. This initial inspection should also be done if extensive repairs or alterations are done. You can purchase crane parts from companies such as Kor-Pak to repair and modify your crane.

Functional Test Inspection

This is a quick daily inspection that gets done before each use of the crane. Do a visual once-over, looking at the condition of the crane.

Frequent Inspection

This inspection includes the visual inspection of the functional test plus a test of the operating mechanisms. Special attention should go to the load chain, wire rope, and hoist brake. It's also important to listen for abnormal sounds.

The frequency of this inspection depends on usage. Normal usage calls for inspection each month. Heavy usage increases this to weekly to monthly. Severely heavy usage calls for weekly or even daily inspections.

This inspection ensures that any worn-out parts get replaced before they fail entirely and create a dangerous situation.

Periodic Inspection

This is like the frequent inspection in that it's usage-based. The inspector should do this inspection yearly under normal usage. Severe service requires this inspection quarterly.

The inspector should look at the individual components for signs of wear or damage.

Schedule Your Crane Inspection

Now that you know and understand the importance of performing a crane inspection, it's time to schedule yours. This will ensure your crane is in a safe operating condition.

Check out the "Process Equipment" section of our blog for more informative articles like this one.