Crane Operational Inspection
An operational inspection should be performed in accordance with the equipment operating manual as well as OSHA and ANSI requirements. This operational inspection is performed by the normal experienced operator on a daily/shift basis and also by qualified inspectors as part of the routine periodic or frequent inspections. Prior to making this operational check, the following safety measures should also be taken:
Check the mainline disconnect and equipment for any lockout tags. Contact the person on any lockout tag if removal is required.
Make sure everyone is clear before switches are thrown.
Make sure that all controllers are in the neutral position.
Notify everyone concerned the crane is to be placed into operation.
Basic Hoist Operational Check (Note that your equipment operational check may vary based upon the manufacturer’s requirements)
Make sure that limit switches are functioning properly and that there is sufficient wraps of rope on the drum in the lowest position.
Run trolley(s) the full length of bridge or monorail ensuring that all speeds are functioning. Watch for vibrations and listen for operation/noises that might be out of the ordinary.
Watch for the operation of trolley collectors or festoon system for any signs of improper function.
Ensure the proper function of any provided trolley brake upon release of the control button.
Ensure that the trolley is tracking properly and that the wheels are not flanging.
Move trolley to end stops and ensure that stops and bumpers are functioning properly.
Operate all hoist functions to check that all speeds operate correctly.
Check function of hoist brakes and that the quickly and fully stop a load at any lift elevation.
Check that running sheaves are turning properly.
Check wire ropes to ensure that they are not rubbing on trolley framework or block housing.
With block raised and trolley at end stop, ensure that clearance is maintained between runway conductor.
Ensure that hoist cables are winding onto the groves of the drum properly and that there is no overlapping of cables or excess cable.
At low hook position, ensure that there are two wraps of cable remaining on the drum.
Crane Operational Check: (Note that your equipment operational check may vary based upon the manufacturer’s requirements)
Make sure that adequate clearance is maintained between the bridge and any obstruction at each end of the bridge.
Check operator cab for proper clearance along with trolley clearance overhead and at ends.
Check for binding and flanging on any portion of the runway rails by driving and coasting crane along the entire length of the runway.
Check crane bridge drives for smooth, vibration-free function and brakes for proper stopping upon release of the control function.
Drive cautiously to end stops and ensure that crane contacts all stop surfaces squarely.
Check that all speeds and travel limits are functioning properly.
Watch operation of collectors and runway conductors along the entire length of runway looking for arcing, loss of contact and examine the condition of bar, hangers, jacket and brackets.
Cranes should cross rail joints with a minimum of bumping and vibration.
Check all controllers for proper condition and function in coordination with their respective function markings.
Judgment must be used to determine if any found condition requires repairs to be completed prior to placing the crane into normal operation.
