For the safety and productivity of your employees and workplace, it’s of critical importance to know that new or newly repaired or modernized lifting equipment is in proper working order—before you put it into service. This section defines required pre-service operational testing and load testing.

Operational tests

1. Prior to initial use all new and altered cranes shall be tested to insure compliance with this section including the following functions:

• Hoisting and lowering.

• Trolley travel.

• Bridge travel.

• Limit switches, locking and safety devices.

2. The trip setting of hoist limit switches shall be determined by tests with an empty hook traveling in increasing speeds up to the maximum speed. The actuating mechanism of the limit switch shall be located so that it will trip the switch, under all conditions, in sufficient time to prevent contact of the hook or hook block with any part of the trolley.

Rated load test

Clescrane professional engineer advise that test loads shall not be more than 125 percent of the rated load unless otherwise recommended by the manufacturer. These test reports shall be placed on file where readily available to appointed personnel.

When it comes to safety in your facility, you can’t afford to overlook any part of the equipment inspection and maintenance process—and that includes testing of equipment before you begin using it in your operations.