If your operation relies upon lifting equipment, it means that your company is held to OSHA’s standards for safety and compliance. While some of these standards may seem to disrupt work, they can easily be the difference between safety and risk, and even life and death for your employees.
One of the most fundamental and essential components of OSHA compliance is related to the inspection schedule you keep for all of your material handling equipment. OSHA requires regular inspections of all lifting equipment (for material baskets, lifting hooks, slings, beams, etc.). These inspections happen so that equipment can be trusted to perform its essential functions safely and consistently day after day.
The short answer to this question is daily, monthly, and yearly.
All equipment must be checked daily by the hoist operator before the first use of each shift. Whenever possible, your people should have access to training and checklists for these quality control checks.
All wire rope, chain, and hooks must have a documented monthly inspection. These monthly inspections are looking for wear and tear, compromises in strength or integrity.
OSHA 1910.179 requirements dictate a yearly complete hoist system inspection. This annual inspection must be completed by a certified inspector and documented accordingly.
When it comes to OSHA compliance, inspections will help you maintain the integrity of the equipment you've invested in. At M&W, we’re committed to providing you with lifting equipment that will protect the integrity of your name and keep your customers safe.
To talk about the inspections standards and strategies for the lifting equipment you're putting your good name on, contact M&W's inspection team today.
