COVID-19 has caused many construction operations to come to a halt which has left many pieces of equipment idle and unused. It’s important to reacquaint yourself with the requirements for overhead crane inspections and operation through overhead crane training before starting to work again. TET offers overhead crane training that fits the needs of your workforce so you can start back up quickly and safely.
Wind Risks had many Overhead Cranes Shut down During COVID-19
The Construction Plant-Hire Association gave advice to tower crane operators and owners about the safety of tower cranes which are out-of-service for long stretches of time due to the COVID-19 pandemic which has led to construction shut-downs. Overhead cranes must be inspected according to manufacturers’ instructions or the overhead crane could experience an extremely high wind load. Wind loads can cause the collapse of the jib and even the entire crane.
Steps to Re-starting Overhead Cranes
Check the crane manufacturer’s guidelines for the specific make and model of the overhead crane for keeping the crane out of service. Verify that the crane has been left in the conditions specified by the manufacturer. Inspect the crane according to OSHA requirements and then come up with a plan moving forward on how to have the crane inspected by a competent person at the required intervals.
Should you Reinspect the Crane Before Restarting it?
If a crane is in storage or on standby, it may need a full inspection before it can be used again depending on the time it has been unused, set by OSHA. Cranes unused for between 1 and 6 months need to be inspected according to the “frequent” overhead crane inspection requirements. “Frequent” overhead crane inspections are done visually and cover the operating mechanisms, hydraulic systems, hooks, and hoist chains. Overhead cranes that have been unused for more than 6 months need to meet both the “frequent” overhead crane inspection requirements as well as the “periodic” overhead crane inspection requirements. Periodic inspections go over bolts, sheaves, locking devices, braking systems, load indicators, power-plants, and electrical wiring
How often should an Overhead Crane be Inspected?
Cranes in regular service, which are used at least once per month, are required to be inspected on a regular basis at OSHA dictated intervals. Overhead crane inspections are done at two intervals: “frequent” or ‘periodic” based on the crane component, the degree of exposure to weather conditions, intensity of use, and how many malfunctions the crane has had. “Frequent” overhead crane inspections should take place daily and before every shift. Periodic overhead crane inspections are required to be conducted annually for normal or heavily used cranes and quarterly for severely used cranes. All inspections must be done by a qualified person who has undergone overhead crane inspection training.
What type of Person can perform an Annual Crane Inspection?
According to OSHA, a competent person must do the crane inspection. Competent is defined as someone who is able to identify current and predictable future hazards in the workplace. Hazardous working conditions may be unsanitary or pose a danger to employees. A competent person is capable and authorized to take corrective measures against hazardous conditions and eliminate the hazards.
Is Overhead Crane Training Required by OSHA?
Overhead cranes are considered heavy equipment and there are strict guidelines and regulations put in place by both State agencies and OSHA to guarantee the safety of operators and bystanders. Regulations are even more stringent in the General Industry Standard or the Construction Standard. To be an overhead crane operator and be NCCCO certified, you will need to be at least 18 years of age, pass the physical examination, and agree to the substance abuse policy. Next, you will need to pass both a written and practical exam through overhead crane training.
Why Refresher Overhead Crane Training Courses Might be Wise
More training is never a bad thing. Training is required and especially important for those who are just learning how to operate an overhead crane, but overhead crane training is also imperative for experienced operators who are using a crane after spending time on other equipment or working at other controls or in the office for a period of time. Because the industry is always changing, remaining up to date with overhead crane training is essential. If you’ve taken time off from crane operation due to COVID, contact TET today to learn how you can refresh your overhead crane training.
How TET Provides Both Online and On-site Overhead Crane Training
Total Equipment Training provides employees with both online and in-person training needed to pass both the written and practical NCCCO crane operator certificate exams. Contact TET today for a quote and for more information on how TET can create an overhead crane training program that fits your needs, skill levels, and equipment.
