23.9.1 Pre-use inspection
In addition to the thorough examination necessary under statutory provisions, a suitably qualified and experienced person should, prior to use, visually inspect all rigging screws and turnbuckles. For turnbuckles in regular use it is good practice to make an inspection at the start of each shift or working day. For turnbuckles used infrequently it should be done before each use on each day of use.
It is recommended that a formal system of pre-use inspection is implemented, and a written record kept identifying the date inspected, confirmation that it passed inspection and the name and signature of the person making the inspection. In the event that it does not pass inspection, there should be procedure to quarantine the turnbuckle to prevent further use of the equipment until the problem has been resolved.
The purpose of the pre-use inspection is to check functionality of the turnbuckle and make a visual check for any obvious defects. This inspection must be carried out with the turnbuckle in a reasonably clean condition and in adequate lighting. The following are examples of the common defects which may become apparent in use or during the regular inspection of turnbuckles and if any are present, the turnbuckle should be withdrawn from service and referred to a Competent Person:
Working load limit missing or unreadable.
Identification mark missing or unreadable.
Damaged internal or external threads.
Distorted body or end terminations, including load pins.
Worn thread and/or end terminations.
Nicks, cracks, gouges, corrosion.
Incorrect load pins fitted to fork fittings.
Damaged or missing locknuts.
No attempt should be made to straighten distorted end terminations or turnbuckle bodies.
Figure 23.9.1-1 illustrates the main areas to be inspected and identifies the more common defects that may be found during the inspection.
Figure 23.9.1-1 Areas of inspection