An overhead crane can be one of the most beneficial equipment of any business that is responsible for transporting cargo from one location to another. It can also be responsible for many injuries if it is not properly maintained. Proper security and safety must be of utmost importance for not only the operator, but making sure that people in and around the crane are always safe. Inspections must be done on a regular basis to make sure that each portion of the overhead crane is maintained, making sure that pieces will not fall apart, leading to injuries. Here are a few tips to consider if you are responsible for a crane that you are using at a worksite.
What Is An Overhead Crane Used For?
Whether you are referring to this as a bridge crane, gantry crane or an overhead crane, they are all constructed in a similar manner. Found in many different industrial environments, it consists of supporting beams below, and overhead beams that are used in two different ways. There will be parallel runways in which the ends of the overhead beam with the hoist will travel, allowing the merchandise to be lifted and moved to different locations. As long as the entire mechanism is secure, and that includes the hoist and trolley, there should be no problem with maintaining high security and safety levels.
What To Check For During Inspections
Even if an industrial crane is newly constructed, safety checks must be done every day. The base plates must be examined to make sure they are secure in the ground. This is what will provide the support for the support posts for the entire mechanism. The truss style beams that will serve as runway beams on either side must also be secure as they are supporting the trolley frame that goes back and forth. The mounting of the hoist, as well as the hook and block at the bottom which is what will attached to the merchandise to lift and lower it, must also be examined regularly. There is also the possibility that the wheels that are in the runway rail can become dislodged, so inspections need to take these into consideration. As long as the end truck and and truck bumper are fully functional, it should have no problem rolling back and forth and also coming to a stop.
Accidents That Can Happen
Most of the accidents associated with an overhead crane have to do with faulty welding which can cause the entire apparatus to come down. This is rare in comparison to the trolley and hoist not being properly mounted and this should be checked on a regular basis. If this falls, or becomes dislodged, especially if it is lifting a heavy load, can lead to injuries down below and the destruction of merchandise because of a faulty installation.
It is important to utilize the help of those that are well aware of welding techniques, and also the construction of the entire apparatus itself. They can make regular safety checks from the remote control room, and also physical inspections, just to make sure everything is operating properly. For other types of cranes, you can visit http://ellsenoverheadcrane.com/.