7.10.3 Maintenance

A routine preventive maintenance programme should be drawn up which, in the case of power operated winches, can be combined with the maintenance programme that will be necessary for the associated power supply system and control equipment. This 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. The general condition and working order of the winch should be maintained. Cleaning and lubrication should be carried out on a regular basis.

  2. Where fitted, the type of brake will depend upon the design of the winch and intended application. As this is a most critical item in the safe operation of the winch, regular inspection and adjustment is essential and should be in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. It should be subjected to regular functional checks and any symptoms of incorrect operation investigated, in particular any noise or vibration associated with power operated winch brakes.

  3. The slipping clutch, where fitted, is a safety device so its correct operation is essential. It should be checked in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and any necessary adjustments made. It should be noted that in some cases the clutch is preset and sealed by the manufacturer. In this case, the winch must be returned to the manufacturer for adjustment and no attempt should be made to adjust this mechanism.

  4. Pressure relief valves and similar overload protection devices should be checked for correct operation and the setting adjusted in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

  5. Ensure that any limit stops that may be fitted are correctly positioned and have not moved. In the case of power operated winches fitted with travel limits, limit arms, switches or valves should be checked for correct operation and serviced in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

  6. Wire ropes should be lubricated in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring the lubricant is acid free in nature. Under certain conditions of use, such as where there is a risk of contaminating other goods or products, or in dusty atmospheres where dirt may mix with the lubricant and adhere to the wire rope, a suitable dry lubricant may be used, details of which are available from the winch supplier or wire rope manufacturer.

  7. Where applicable, rope terminal fittings should swivel freely. Swivels and bearings must be lubricated as necessary. Attention should also be given to hook safety catches to ensure their correct operation and that springs have not become strained.

  8. Pulleys, sheaves and diverters should be checked for freedom of movement and the axle pins and bearings should be lubricated.

  9. In the case of power operated winches, the prime mover (e.g. electric motor) should be maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.