Best Ways to Maintain Overhead Cranes and Hoists Safely

An overhead crane is a type of equipment that consists of two parallel beams. These beams are used to transport cargo from one place to another inside a factory. These cranes are extensively used in maintaining various applications such as warehouses, workstations, garage workshops, etc. The two beams of the crane used to support it in moving the load either side to side or forward & backwards.

Hoist crane safety and precautions:

Before operating an overhead crane, a person should have adequate knowledge about the important tips and tricks. Before starting the safety inspection, an operator should thoroughly check the below-mentioned potential safety hazards.

• An overhead crane should be operated with skilful, experienced and trained employees. People who don’t have adequate knowledge about the crane should stay away from operating a crane. Because any small mistake can lead up to the losing lives of people.
• You should consider the crane loading condition to avoid a load moment. This can overturn the crane.
• “Hoist danger” signs should be placed around the operational area. No worker and staff should stand or work beneath the hoist area.
• While operating an overhead crane, proper cautions and measures of safety length of people should be maintained.
• You should opt for a professional inspection of the load/stress-bearing structure at least annually. Also, submit the reports for the crane file.
• When a hoist or overhead trolly is travelling, don’t swing a crane or grab or hook.
• When the crane is in the operating phase, select those items on the crane that could potentially fall.
• The crane with the operator cabin should possess a fully-charged fire extinguisher.
• Check the bridge and trolley whether they are on track and functioning properly or not.
• Make sure that the load can travel without inhibitions.
• Never leave the load ignored.
• Before using, check the hook roller brackets, welds, locking devices, bearings, pins, shafts, gears, and removable outrigger attachment.
• Before starting check all brakes (the bridge and trolley motor brakes).
• Don’t forget to check the main chords and lacings.
• Check whether the bridge and trolley motor brakes are functioning properly or not. Do cross-check if all the below-the-hook devices are in good condition or not.
• Test proper calibration on all indicators.
• The correct response of brakes, motion lever, and locking devices must be checked. Never ignore the accuracy of the rated capacity indicator (RCI) or load moment indicator (LMI).
• You should inspect the crane periodically. This includes loose, missing bolts, pins or nuts, cracked, worn or distorted parts.
• Pay extra care and attention to the hook block. This will help you to get an idea of whether the wire rope and load chain are in the right positions or not. If they are not in the proper positions, fix their positions immediately.
• When the crane is in motion, the operator should be attentive.
• Always ensure that there is no kinking, cutting, crushing, un-stranding or thermal damage to the wire rope. Check whether all chain sprockets are operating effortlessly or not.
• The safety should be checked or inspected by professionals who have in-depth knowledge regarding this field.