4.10.1 Pre-Use Inspection
In addition to the thorough examination required under statutory provisions, all chain lever hoists should be visually inspected by a suitably qualified and experienced person prior to use or on a regular basis, taking account of the conditions of service. For hoists in regular use it is good practice to make the inspection at the start of each shift or working day. For hoists used infrequently it should be done before each use on each day of 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 the inspection, there should be a system a procedure in place to quarantine the hoist to prevent further use of the equipment until the problem has been resolved.
The purpose of the pre-use inspection is to test the functionality of the hoist and make a visual check for obvious defects and, if any of the following faults are present, the chain lever hoist should be withdrawn from service and referred to a Competent Person:
The load chain is worn or damaged. In particular, attention should be given to the wear which occurs on the bearing surfaces inside of the links and to damage in the form of bent, notched, stretched or corroded links. The chain should articulate freely.
Obvious signs of ‘opening out’ of hooks, that is any noticeable increase in the throat opening, or any other form of distortion in the hooks or suspension fittings.
Obvious signs of damage to the load chain stop or the chain anchor which connects the load chain to the lever hoist casing, whichever is applicable.
When operated under load, there is any jumping or any undue effort is required or there is any visible slipping of the brake.
General damage to the lever hoist body, including any gear covers, breaking of overload protection devices, controls or chain guides, and in particular to the operating lever which could indicate a previous overloading.
In the case of link chain, the load chain wheel should be checked for debris in the pockets and in the case of roller chain, the space between the rollers and the mating sprocket should be checked for a build up of debris. Any build up of debris will prevent the load chain from seating correctly and should be removed.
In certain circumstances, very rapid wear of link type load chain can develop which is characterised by a rough appearance on mating surfaces inside of the links. If such circumstances are suspected, then the equipment should be withdrawn from service immediately and referred to a Competent Person.