10.10.3 Maintenance

A routine preventive maintenance programme should be drawn up which can be combined with the maintenance programme that will be necessary for the lifting appliance, trolley and power feed system. It should meet the requirements set out in the manufacturer’s installation and maintenance instructions in addition to any requirements of the particular site due to the conditions of service. In any event attention should be given to the following points:

  1. Lubricate bearings and pivot points. Where the slewing motion is obtained by operation of a manual gear or by power drive, gear wheels and drives must be kept in good order. Gears and bearings should be lubricated and other drives and motors maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

  2. The jib arm flange or track face on which the trolley runs should be cleaned of all debris, dust or other substances which may impede the free movement and correct operation of the trolley. Clean the trolley wheels.

  3. The general condition of the jib crane, its fixings and supporting structures should be maintained. Bolts should be checked to ensure that they are tight and re-torqued if necessary. If bolts are missing, they should be replaced with the correct size, type and grade. If these details are unknown do not attempt to replace them but refer to a Competent Person.

  4. Ensure end stops and slewing stops are in good order and that they are correctly positioned.

  5. The types of defect found during the inspection and maintenance of electric conductor systems will vary depending on the type and reference should be made to the manufacturer’s instructions. In general, the termination points of electric cables into their respective entry glands are areas of wear due to flexing. With festooned cables, continual flexing and rubbing as they open and close into loops can cause a breakdown of the outer insulation. Similarly, where movement of the jib is permitted by flexible cables, this can cause a breakdown of the outer insulation and fatigue may occur if insufficient slack is allowed. Where power is supplied by slip rings, these should be kept in good order and no carbon or other matter permitted to build up. Brushes or collectors should be checked and renewed as necessary. Collector shoes of enclosed conductor systems are liable to wear and support springs may weaken, and should be checked for correct fitting. It is advisable to carry out regular insulation and earth continuity tests and keep records of the results.

  6. In the case of pneumatic supply systems, movement of the jib is permitted by flexible hose. Continual flexing and rubbing as the jib arm slews can cause a breakdown of the hose and connectors may become loose. Filters and lubricators should be checked, drained if necessary and lubricator oil levels topped up.