20.9.1 Pre-use inspection

In addition to the thorough examination necessary under statutory provisions, all eyebolts should be visually inspected by a suitably qualified and experienced person prior to 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 eyebolt 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 eyebolt and make a visual check for any obvious defects. This inspection must be carried out with the eyebolt 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may become apparent in use or during the regular inspection of eyebolts and if any are present, the eyebolt should be withdrawn from service and referred to a Competent Person:

  1. Distortion, such as bent shank, deformed eye, reduced diameter at undercut.

  2. Thread worn, corroded, damaged or incorrectly formed.

  3. Damage, such as nicks, cracks, gouges, corrosion.

  4. SWL, thread identification and identification markings missing or illegible.