How to Make Your Overhead Crane Inspection - Program OSHA Compliant

The purpose of this guide is to provide a quick reference to help identify inspection types, inspection description, inspector qualifications, and the required documentation.

OSHA regulations are available online here.

CMAA Specifications are available for purchase here, and ASME here.

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Type

Description

Qualifications

Documentation
Initial Inspection

Required- Prior to initial use all new and altered cranes shall be inspected to ensure compliance with the provisions of 1910.179(j).

 Designated (trained)- All inspections shall be performed by a designated person. Any deficiencies identified shall be examined by and determination made by a qualified person as to whether they constitute a hazard and if more detailed inspection is required ASME B30.2-2.1.1(d). Required- Records of the inspection and tests shall be made. ASME B30.2-2.1.2(f).
Pre-Shift/Functional Test
 Required- At the beginning of each shift, the upper limit switch of each hoist shall be tried out under no load. In addition, these items are required daily: all functional operating mechanisms for maladjustment interfering with proper operation, deterioration or leakage in lines, valves, drain pumps, or other parts of the air or hydraulic systems, and hooks with deformation or cracks. Visual inspection of hoist chains and wire ropes. 1910.179(j).2.(i). Designated (trained)- All inspections shall be performed by a designated person. Any deficiencies identified shall be examined by and determination made by a qualified person as to whether they constitute a hazard, and if more detailed inspection is required. ASME B30.2-2.1.1(d). Required- Records of the inspection should be made. ASME B30.2-2.1.3(d).
Frequent Inspection
 Required- Visual inspection: The items list in 1910.179(j)(2) shall be inspected for defects at intervals defined in 1910.179(j)(1)(ii), specifically indicating, including observations during exposure for any defects which might appear between regular inspections. All deficiencies such as listed shall be carefully examined and determination made as to whether they constitute a safety hazard. Designated (trained)- All inspections shall be performed by a designated person. Any deficiencies identified shall be examined by and determination made by a qualified person as to whether they constitute a hazard and if more detailed inspection is required ASME B30.2-2.1.1(d). Required- Hooks with deformation or cracks monthly 1910.179(j)(2)(iii). Hoist chains monthly inspection 1910.179(j)(2)(iv). A thorough inspection of all ropes shall be made at least once a month and certification record that includes the date of the inspection and an identifier for the ropes that were inspected 1910.179(m)(1).
Periodic Inspection
 Required- Complete inspections of the crane should be performed at intervals generally defined in paragraph 1910.179(j)(1)(ii)(b) depending upon its activity, severity of service environment or specifically indicated in this section. These inspections shall include the requirements of frequent inspection 1910.179(j)(2)(ii)of this section and in addition the items listed in 1910.179(j)(3). Any deficiencies such as listed shall be carefully examined and determination made as to whether they constitute a safety hazard. Designated (trained)- All inspections shall be performed by a designated person. Any deficiencies identified shall be examined by and determination made by a qualified person as to whether they constitute a hazard and if more detailed inspection is required ASME B30.2-2.1.1(d) In addition CMAA Spec 78-2.2 requires 2000 field hours and formal training every two years.

Required- Dated records shall be made apparent external conditions found in ASME B30.2-2.1.5(c)to provide a basis for a continuing evaluation replace on file. ASME B30.2-2.1.5(e).

 
Not in Regular Use
 Required- A crane which has been idle for period of 1 month or more, but less than 6 months, shall be given an inspection conforming with requirements of paragraph 1910.179(j)(2) of this section and paragraph 1910.179(m)(2) of this section before being placed in service. A crane which has been idle for a period of over 6 months shall be given a complete inspection conforming with the requirements of paragraphs 1910.179(j)(2) and (3) of this section and paragraph 1910.179(m)(2) of this section before being placed in service. Standby cranes shall be inspected at least semi-annually in accordance with the requirements of paragraph 1910.179(j)(2) of this section and paragraph 1910.179(m)(2) of this section. Designated (trained)- All inspections shall be performed by a designated person. Any deficiencies identified shall be examined by and determination made by a qualified person as to whether they constitute a hazard and if more detailed inspection is required ASME B30-2-2.1.1(d). Required- A crane that has been idle for period of one month or more, but less than one year, shall be inspected for a bit before being placed in service in accordance with the requirements in ASME B30.2-2.1.4.
Preventative Maintenance
 Required- A preventive maintenance program based on OEM Recommendation. 1910.179(l)(1). Designated (trained)- CMAA Spec 78 requires training of persons working on cranes.

Required- Dated records should be placed on file. ASME B30.2-4.4.
Repairs and Adjustments
 Required- Any unsafe conditions disclosed by the inspection requirements of paragraph 1910.179(j) of this section shall be corrected before operation of the crane is resumed. Adjustments and repairs shall be done only by designated personnel. Designated (trained)- ASME B30.2-4.2.4(b). CMAA Spec 78 requires training of persons working on cranes. Required- Dated records should be kept on file ASME B30.2-4.4.
Operator Training
 Required- Designated means selected or assigned by the employer or the employer's representative as being qualified to perform specific duties. Crane operator training shall be provided to promote proficient performance of crane operator in conformance with the provisions of this volume. ASME B30.2-3.1.1. Designated (trained)- Crane operator training shall be provided to promote proficient performance of crane operator in conformance with the provisions of this volume. ASME B30.2-3.1.1. Required- Issue a certificate, or formal record that verifies the person has been trained and has past examination required in ASME B30.2-3.3.3(c), Or confirm that the person has a valid certificate or formal record that satisfy the requirements ASME B30.2-3.3(d).