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Crane Inspection Forms

September 14th, 2006 Posted by Amelia

Crane inspection forms are a key component in any employer’s crane safety program. Moving large, heavy loads is crucial to today’s manufacturing and construction industries. Much technology has been developed for these operations, requiring careful training and extensive workplace precautions.

There are significant safety issues to be considered when using cranes, both for the operators and for workers in proximity to them. Training and constant inspection are important features in any crane safety program.

Cranes should be inspected daily, weekly and monthly during normal usage. Cranes that are more heavily used, should be inspected more frequently. The manufacturer’s manual will include more detailed information on a specific crane’s inspection requirements. In general, the daily inspection is completed by the crane operator, while weekly and monthly inspections are completed by supervisors and/or trained professionals.

Proper training for crane operators and helpers is crucial. Yet, even with the best training, accidents can occur if the crane is not inspected regularly. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration mandates that all cranes be regularly inspected according to ANSI and manufacturer standards.

The operator should inspect the crane on a daily basis, prior to using it. The daily inspection should include examining the chain for wear, twists, broken links, and excessive dirt. The chain should also be checked for proper lubrication. Hooks should be inspected for cracks or damage. Latches should operate properly.

In addition, OSHA requires frequent inspections by an experience person who has been trained and qualified to inspect cranes. OSHA requires that this inspection be conducted by a competent person, which they define as “one who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings or working conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees, and who has authorization to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them.”

OSHA recently ruled that these inspections may take place in Canada, for Canadian companies that frequently subcontract in the U.S. Under normal use, these inspections should take place about once per week. They should include a more thoroughly inspection of the hoist than the daily inspections.

Please note that some states have requirements more stringent than OSHA’s program for cranes.