Why it is important to inspect the lifting beam
Checking the lifting beam is essential to ensure the safety and reliability of the equipment. Maintenance and inspection of the lifting beam will help to detect any wear, damage or other problems before they cause serious accidents or downtime. This is particularly important in industrial environments where the crane beam is used on a daily basis and under heavy loads.
Regular inspection also extends the life of the lifting beam and reduces repair costs in the long term. By regularly checking the safety and condition of the lifting beam, unexpected and costly repairs can be avoided. This also improves worker safety and reduces the risk of accidents.
The lifting equipment and lifting accessories designed by Hefmec are CE marked and meet all the requirements of the Machinery Directive and national regulations. This ensures that the equipment is safe and reliable to use when properly maintained and inspected.
How often the lifting beam should be inspected under different operating conditions
The inspection interval of a lifting beam depends largely on the conditions of use. For light use, such as occasional lifting, an annual inspection may be sufficient. However, if the lifting beam is used on a daily basis or in heavy-duty conditions, it should be inspected more frequently, for example every six months or even quarterly.
In particularly demanding conditions, such as chemically aggressive environments or very high or low temperatures, the inspection interval for the lifting beam can be even more frequent. In these conditions, the equipment is exposed to a higher risk of wear and damage, so regular inspection is essential. Hefmec experts can help determine the appropriate inspection interval for your specific operating conditions.
Steps of the check and checklist
The inspection of the lifting beam consists of several steps to ensure the safety and functionality of the equipment. The first step is a visual inspection, which checks the general condition of the lifting beam, any visible damage and wear. This step also includes checking the attachment points and joints of the lifting beam.
Next, a mechanical inspection is carried out to test the functioning of the moving parts of the lifting beam and ensure that all parts move smoothly and without friction. This step also includes testing the load capacity of the lifting beam to ensure that it can withstand the designed loads.
Finally, an electrical check is carried out if the lifting beam has electrical components. This step includes checking the electrical system, detecting any faults and making any necessary repairs. The checklist may also include a review of the crane beam manual and service book to ensure that all maintenance has been carried out correctly.
Possible consequences of non-compliance
Failure to check the lifting beam can have serious consequences. Firstly, unused or poorly maintained lifting beams can cause serious accidents that can result in personal injury or even death. This is particularly likely to happen if the lifting beam is used in heavy or demanding conditions without regular inspection.
Secondly, failures to comply can lead to significant financial losses. A broken lifting beam can cause production stoppages, which can be very costly. In addition, repair costs can rise significantly if problems are not detected and repaired in time.
Thirdly, failures to comply can affect the reputation and reliability of a company. Customers and partners value safety and reliability, and regular inspection of the lifting beam is part of this. The lifting equipment designed and supplied by Hefmec is renowned for its durability and reliability, but regular inspection is also essential.
Hefmec offers a comprehensive inspection and maintenance service to ensure that your lifting beam is always safe and in working order. Contact us and we will design an inspection and maintenance programme to suit your needs and operating conditions.
