By Columbus McKinnon | Mar 16, 2023
If you own or operate an overhead crane or jib crane, you understand the importance of a regular maintenance program. It is essential for lifting equipment to maintain efficient operation and, more importantly, keep operators and those around the equipment remain safe. An overhead crane inspection sheet can be incorporated at any worksite that uses an overhead crane to handle materials. This ensures the system will continue operating properly before a worker operators the equipment. Since operating cranes can be extremely dangerous, it's important to have a comprehensive preventative maintenance program that includes a daily inspection.
Having an inspection and safety procedure checklist is the first step in implementing a comprehensive, preventative maintenance program. By following a checklist, you will not only prolong the life of your overhead crane but also preserve your warranty and prevent potential worker safety concerns.
According to OSHA 1910.179, a crane operator must conduct a daily safety inspection each day and/or prior to use each shift. To be able to use the equipment safely, operators must first ensure that all required safety equipment is present and in use. In addition, the operator should be trained and authorized to do so. While pre-op checklists for cranes might seem redundant for every shift to complete, many factors can change on a crane depending on the skill and care of the previous person who operated it.
This is to ensure that the area around the crane is clear.
Once the area around the crane has been inspected, the preliminary equipment check should take place.
Chain Inspection - Hoist Chain vs. Rigging Chain
When the crane operator has checked the crane area and conducted a preliminary equipment check, he or she can inspect the crane itself for possible malfunctions or safety hazards.
The bottom block assembly should be checked for:
Maintenance of any overhead crane system requires effective daily safety inspections. You should establish a safety regimen based on the inspection checklist listed above. If you notice any malfunctions, unusual noises, or unusual movements, you should stop using the crane immediately.
Some government bodies require you to inspect cranes annually. To increase safety, you should conduct your own inspections throughout the year. Some inspections should be performed every time the crane is used, while others can be performed less frequently. Checks should be performed as follows:
A preventive maintenance checklist, or daily maintenance checklist, for an overhead crane is something all crane operators should have in their back pocket to reference as they begin their day to ensure safety and productivity when the overhead crane is in use. OSHA 1910.179(j) classifies daily inspections as frequent inspections and requires a daily inspection checklist that is signed off on. OSHA requires frequent inspections of all "operating mechanisms" (hoists, cranes, their moving parts), hoist chains, hooks, and other items. Many of these items require daily visual inspections and monthly inspections with certification records.
Daily overhead crane safety checks should be performed by the crane operator. A fully qualified engineer or trained inspector should perform more detailed inspections, like periodic inspections.
Regularly inspecting machinery can uncover mechanical problems early, reducing the risk of injuries or costly equipment failures. Repair costs may be significant, but proactively addressing repairs can help prevent operation disruptions or suspensions. Overhead crane inspections are also a preventative measure. Incorporating inspections into employee training can help reduce issues caused by improper use and encourage a deeper understanding of the equipment.
OSHA compliance is another reason for crane inspections. Failing to keep your equipment up to code can result in indirect financial penalties and costly downtime.
No! Intelli-Connect™ Mobile, an automation solution from Columbus McKinnon, can help enable predictive maintenance and minimize downtime. Intelli-Connect Mobile’s wireless drive monitoring, analytics, and configuration features enable quick and easy programming, maintenance, monitoring, and troubleshooting of overhead cranes and hoists. You can access detailed information from the plant floor using the Intelli-Connect Mobile App. With descriptive and diagnostic information at your fingertips, you can address issues more quickly, plan maintenance, and reduce downtime.
Learn more about Intelli-Connect™ Mobile
With our specialized expertise and experience, we can provide customized crane solutions that meet all your needs. Contact us today for information on utilizing overhead crane safety systems in your facility to keep your workers safe and improve productivity and uptime.
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