It’s every business’s worst nightmare. You’re caught unaware by an inspection, and despite careful maintenance, you don’t pass.
Your overhead cranes will be inspected annually. Fail to pass these OSHA inspections, and your whole business could face substantial financial penalties.
Many factors go into passing, and it’s hard to keep them all in mind. Luckily, you don’t have to. That’s where we come in.
Would you like to be completely prepared for a crane inspection? Want to have that peace of mind that comes with knowing everything is running smoothly? Then keep reading, and we’ll tell you exactly what you need to know.
OSHA Inspections Can Take Place Anytime Within 12 Months of the Last Inspection
While crane inspections technically take place every 12 months, that doesn’t mean it will be exactly a year to the day since your last one. OSHA can legally visit you at any time. The only rule for crane inspections is that OSHA must inspect your crane on or before the anniversary of your last crane inspection.
Every Modification Must Be In Line with OSHA Standards
Modifying your crane, or making it more powerful is perfectly legal. It’s not a simple case of just modifying your crane and calling it a day, however.
Every modification needs to be checked over by either a qualified engineer or the original manufacturer.
If you’re looking to have your crane modified or modernized, such as adding a remote control feature, you need to ensure the engineers complete it according to regulations.
Other Regular Crane Inspections Are Required
OSHA inspections may only be annual, but they’re not the only ones you should carry out.
Regular crane inspections must be carried out following federal and state laws.
Every day, the following should be checked:
- The functional operating system for maladjustment
- The condition of lines, tanks, and all other components of the pneumatic or hydraulic systems
- The hook for cracks or deformation
- Hoist chains for any issues that will affect proper function
- For excessive wear
Every month, you’ll need to ensure that a signed crane inspection record is created for:
- The condition of the hook
- The condition of hoist chains
- The condition of your running rope
Mobile Apps Can Help With Inspections
Crane inspection software is available to help you comply with regulations. These apps offer a wide range of features to simplify inspections, such as allowing workers to upload photos of faults.
Other apps are available that break OSHA regulations down into a list. Your workers can then move through this list quickly and efficiently.
While some apps do require internet access, others allow for offline use. Which one you choose will depend on your facility’s unique requirements.
Checklists Can Help Ensure Compliance
OSHA guidelines can be hard to understand at times, particularly if you’re not fluent in legal language. By breaking the rules down into English, and posing them as a question, you can ensure they will be understood.
For example, where regulations state motors must be checked for performance issues, ask: “Are there any problems with the motor’s performance?”
How We Can Help
OSHA inspections can be stressful, but they’re carried out to protect the safety of you and your workforce. If you need the stress taken out of inspections, contact us.