7.8.3 Pre-use Inspection/Thorough Examination

The degree of pre-use inspection and thorough examination required will to some degree depend on the type of winch used and the installation conditions. Whilst it is recognised that some winches are designed and intended for simple, temporary, installation by the user, this is generally not the case and more complex installation is usually called for. For complex installations and those requiring an amount of dismantling and reassembly a high degree of examination by a Competent Person may be called for (See 7.7 LEGAL REQUIREMENTS)

Where the Competent Person deems a proof test is necessary to supplement his thorough examination, the test load applied will take into account the requirements of the overall installation, e.g. pulley block support structure, which form a part of the thorough examination. The proof load for the winch may vary with the design and type and reference to standards and/or the manufacturer’s instructions will be necessary. These may include both dynamic and static loading. Functional tests at the rated capacity and other load tests to ensure the integrity of the brake or sustaining mechanism, motion limits and safety devices may also form a part of the examination. Dynamic test loads should be applied by operating the machine in accordance with the standard to which the hoist was made or in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.