Every industrial business owner is all too familiar with the word “inspections.” There are safety inspections, OSHA inspections, annual inspections, and many other types of inspections. Teams need to prepare for all of these.
And, for any business that operates cranes as part of their industrial machinery, undergoing a routine crane inspection is one of those. That way, regulatory agencies can ensure the cranes are being operated safely.
If you’re unsure of what to expect when the crane inspector comes knocking, don’t worry. Let’s take a quick look at what requirements your crane needs to meet to pass inspections.
Types of Crane Inspections
To best understand how crane inspections work, you need to understand the different types of crane inspections. Under OSHA, these fall into a few main categories.
The Initial Crane Inspection
The initial crane inspection is a test that businesses must conduct after installing a new crane. It also applies to any crane that has been reinstalled after undergoing renovations or repairs.
During this type of inspection, the crane must pass a visual test once it has been properly installed. Businesses must provide documentation showing that the crane passed the initial inspection. They won’t be able to use the crane until they can provide documentation.
Functional Test Inspection
The next type of crane inspection is something called a functional test inspection. These are inspections that are conducted every time someone uses the machinery.
Before using the machinery, OSHA requires a visual test of the crane’s functionality to carry out operations safely. The inspections check for functionality, damage, and aging on the machine before use.
Frequent Crane Inspections
A frequent crane inspection includes all the components of a functional test inspection. However, it doesn’t require documentation. It’s also carried out more regularly and must test the machinery’s operations. Frequent crane inspections require a visual inspection to ensure there is no need for repairs.
These inspections are carried out daily, weekly, or monthly depending on the classification of the crane. The more the crane is used, the more frequent its inspections will need to be.
Periodic Crane Inspections
This type of inspection is the least frequent of all the crane inspections that are typically conducted. Its frequency is based on how much the machinery is used and is generally conducted annually or quarterly.
Periodic crane inspections are typically a thorough visual and functional test of all the crane’s components. Depending on the outcome of the periodic inspection, you may be required to undergo additional tests or do maintenance on your machinery.
Bring It All Together: Why Crane Inspections Matter
Crane inspections aren’t carried out just to make OSHA happy. They’re essential because they’re what keep your operations running smoothly and your employees safe on the job.
If your business frequently uses cranes and you want to keep your employees safe and adhere to OSHA guidelines, you need to make sure you’re keeping up with inspections.
The team at Kor-Pak can help you conduct all the crane inspections you need. Give us a call, and we’ll help you schedule your next frequent or periodic crane inspection.