What's Needed For a Thorough Inspection?

Are you asking the right questions about inspections? Inspections of slings, crane hooks, and lifting devices are required at least once a year. How do you know that your inspector is competent? The lowest bidder may not always be the best choice.

Make sure that your inspector has been trained and has the knowledge necessary to provide you with a thorough inspection. He should be certified in Non Destructive Testing (NDT) by a credible institution.

A good sling inspection program should provide a complete recorded history of each sling. By keeping a running history of all slings, changes in its condition can be monitored and compared over its service life. Slings are required by the OSHA 1910.184 and the ASME B30.9 specifications to undergo inspections. The purpose of the inspections are to assess the condition of the sling to determine if there are any conditions present that are unsafe or could make it hazardous to use. These inspections are broken down into three types:

1. Initial Inspection: Prior to use, all new, altered, modified, or repaired slings shall be inspected.
2. Frequent Inspection: A visual inspection of the sling shall be made each day the sling is used, usually made by the user of the sling.
3. Periodic Inspection: A complete and thorough link by link inspection of all the components of a chain sling. The time between inspections depends on the severity of sling service, but should not exceed one year. Written records of the periodic inspections should be made and kept.

At the conclusion of your inspection, ASC’s inspector will provide you with copies of your inspection report and answer any questions you may have about the condition and safety of your lifting devices. ASC’s inspectors will assist you with any follow up questions as well. Just Call!

You should always feel confident about the condition of your lifting devices and a thorough inspection by a trained professional will provide that confidence.