About 72 fatal crane accidents happen each year.

It’s no secret that working with big machinery can be dangerous. That’s why safety is always a priority.

Preventive methods should be taken to ensure safety while using an overhead. Here’s an overhead crane maintenance checklist to follow.

When To Perform Overhead Crane Maintenance

While designated personnel should perform required maintenance and repairs, the crane operator should conduct daily inspections before and after each use.

According to OSHA, a safety check should be done at the beginning of each shift.

A well-trained and qualified crane operator should ensure all equipment is ready for use.

A daily inspection chart should be signed off each day by the operator to ensure the safety inspection is complete.

What The Checklist Includes

An overhead crane maintenance checklist includes three different checkouts:

1. Area Check

This check is to ensure the area around the crane is clear. Some of these activities include:

Know the location of the crane disconnect switch.
Make sure there are no warning signs present
Check to make sure workers are not working near the area
Look ahead to verify there is nothing around the area where the load will be moved.
Check to make sure the below-the-hook devices are designed for the crane in use and will safely be able to lift the load.
Make sure that the load capacity is equal to or less than the capacity of the crane.

2. Preliminary Check

Once the area check has been performed, the operator can begin the preliminary check of the equipment. This should be done before he or she touches any controls.

Check the electric systems, bridge, runway, trolley, and hoist to make sure there are no loose, broken, or damaged parts.
Make sure the wire rope is seated in the drums grooves properly.
Ensure that the open power source is secure and there is nothing close.
Check the strain reliefs or brushings to make sure that no wires are pulled.
Make sure there is no damage to the pushbutton pendant.

3. Equipment Safety Check

After the preliminary check is complete, the crane operator must perform a safety check of the crane itself to make sure it is in working order. This is to ensure there is no potential for malfunction.

Several different categories need to be signed off when checking the equipment.

Check all powered systems. Including, making sure the power button is not sticky, the hoist hook rises, and the upper limit switch is functioning properly.
Make sure all hooks are in working condition. There should be no more than 10% wear on any part of the hook.
Ensure there is no damage or cracks on the bottom block assembly. The sheaves should be able to rotate freely and smoothly.
Make sure there are no broken wires on the wire rope and load chain. There should be no kinks, cuts, or thermal damage to any ropes or chains.

Safety Comes First

Taking the time to make sure the crane is in safe operating status will prevent accidents on the job site.

Remember, this is not a comprehensive safety checklist. For any questions or needs, you may have, feel free to contact us.

We’re here to make sure any project you have will be successful.