Mobile Crane Safety Examination

Mobile Crane Safety and Examination

• Mobile cranes depend on chassis and tyres for operational safety; both components are critical to the crane system's integrity.
• Regular and thorough examinations of mobile cranes are essential for safety compliance.

Examination Components

• Manufacturer’s information plate/label and duty charts must be checked.
• Inspect tyres, wheels, and axle locking systems for wear or damage.
• Crawler tracks and crane chassis should be examined closely.
• Outrigger jacks and beams, along with chassis braking systems, require inspection.
• Conduct a visual inspection of bolts, pins, and fastenings to ensure stability.
• The slew section structure, including fasteners and slew ring, must be inspected.
• Assess the slewing mechanism throughout its full movement range with the jib extended.
• All pipework, rigid and flexible hoses, and hydraulic cylinder fittings should be visually checked.
• Visual checks of oil levels and fluid condition are necessary.
• Superstructure, jib, fly jib, and mounting attachment require visual inspections.
• Inspect all pivoting joints and telescoping extensions on the crane.
• Check wire running and static ropes for integrity at terminations.
• Inspect pulleys, sheaves, and drums including protective guards.
• The cab should be fully inspected, focusing on controls, markings, indicators, and seating.
• Check the falling object protection structure (FOPS) and associated components.
• Limiting and indicating devices like rated capacity systems and anemometers must be functional.
• Hook blocks, counterweights, and all fastening mechanisms should be closely examined.
• Hoist, luffing winches, brakes, and hydraulic systems require inspection.
• Inspect power and control cables, slip rings, and ensure control cabinets are intact.
• Verify that all markings, labels, and instruction notices are present and legible.

Levels of Inspection

• Pre-use inspection: Carried out by the crane operator to identify any obvious defects or functionality issues. Competency in conducting these checks is crucial, necessitating training and assessment.
• Interim inspection: Also known as "In-Service inspection," determined by risk assessment focusing on critical components. Frequency can vary based on risk and manufacturer guidelines, often occurring during maintenance or repairs.

Operator and Cab Controls Checks

• Maintain a tidy cab; clutter can hinder safety and functionality.
• Ensure the operator’s seat is in good condition and functions correctly.
• Check for loose wires or panels to avoid electrical hazards.
• Ensure the rated capacity limiter (RCL) is fully functional.
• Verify crane-specific load charts are present in the cab.
• Ensure no obstructions impede the operator's view.
• Confirm safety glass is intact and only manufacturer-specific glass is used.
• All control functions, switches, lights, and air conditioning/heater controls must operate correctly.

Crane Control Functionality

• Verify that all control functions and switches are clearly marked and perform as intended for safe operation.