7.7.1 Statutory Thorough Examination

The definition of lifting equipment and accessories used in this code make it clear that, when used in a lifting application, winches are lifting equipment. Unless a written scheme of examination (refer to LEEA 032 Guidance to written schemes of examination for guidance), drawn up by a Competent Person, is in place and operating they must be thoroughly examined by a Competent Person at intervals not exceeding 12 months (6 months in the case of people-carrying equipment). Reports of thorough examination should be retained and cross referenced to the machine’s historical records for inspection by the Competent Person or local enforcing authority.

For some applications it may also be necessary to have the installation thoroughly examined by a Competent Person before the winch is put into service. (See 7.8 INSTALLATION AND COMMISSIONING).

Note

  1. As winches are designed and intended for both lifting and pulling operations, unless a winch is installed in such a way that its use is restricted solely to a pulling operation there is always the possibility that they may be used to effect a lift. It is therefore the view of LEEA that winches which are, or could be, used for both lifting and pulling operations should be treated as lifting machines and be subject to the full requirements of lifting equipment legislation.

  2. An important point to be borne in mind is that the winch, its associated wire rope, any fittings and pulley blocks used in the rigging assembly will be deemed to be separate items. In this respect, each item must be thoroughly examined to the appropriate requirements and individual records kept in accordance with the requirements of lifting equipment legislation.