Bridge, gantry, jib, and other industrial cranes are integral to daily lifting operations. Often, we overlook the necessity of regular inspections until a malfunction occurs. Just as we attend routine medical check-ups, our lifting equipment requires periodic assessments at specified intervals.
This article addresses questions like: How frequently should crane inspections be conducted? We’ll explore various types of crane inspections and their recommended intervals.
Regular inspections are mandated by zákon č. 124/2006 Z.z., § 13, ods. 3 on occupational safety and health, and MPSVR SR č. 508/2009 Z.z. § 9, These regulations aim to ensure safe and risk-free operations, while also preventing malfunctions that could disrupt work, especially under time constraints.
What does “inspection” imply?
The term “inspection” encompasses professional examinations, tests, and assessments of a device’s technical condition. Essentially, it’s a comprehensive check to ensure cranes operate safely and efficiently.
Why are inspections crucial?
The primary goal is to verify the safety and reliability of equipment. Inspections help identify potential issues, preventing malfunctions or accidents. Factors like component wear, operational condition changes, and contamination can impact lifting equipment performance.
Even with regular checks, cranes can malfunction. However, early detection significantly reduces the risk of major failures. Routine inspections offer:
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Malfunction Prevention |
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Employee Safety |
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Regulatory Compliance |
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Extended Equipment Lifespan |
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Crane Classification Groups
According to prílohy č. 1 Vyhlášky č. 508/2009 Z. z., bridge, gantry, jib cranes, and light crane systems are categorized as follows:
| Group Aa | Group Ba1 |
| Electrically powered cranes with a load capacity over 1,000 kg and manually operated cranes over 5,000 kg |
Electrically powered cranes up to 1,000 kg (inclusive) and manually operated cranes up to 5,000 kg (inclusive) |
Mandatory Crane Inspections
As designated lifting technical equipment, cranes are subject to stringent inspections per vyhlášky MPSVR SR č. 508/2009 Z.z.
Official Inspection
Before being put into operation, each crane must undergo an official inspection in accordance with príloha č. 6 vyhlášky MPSVR SR č. 508/2009 Z.z. Exceptions include Group Ba1 cranes, which require only an assembly test and a professional inspection by a certified technician.
Authorized entities, such as Technical Inspection, a.s. or TÜV SÜD Slovakia, s.r.o., conduct these inspections. Ideally, manufacturers or suppliers should handle this before delivery.
The inspection assesses beam deflection under load, functionality of electronic and mechanical components, and safety features. Inspectors also review structural deviations and complete documentation. Upon passing, a certificate of the initial official inspection and a professional opinion on the documentation are issued. Failure results in a deadline to address deficiencies.
Note: Without a valid official inspection (either expired or never conducted), subsequent inspection reports are invalid.
After the crane has been put into operation, it is necessary to perform regular professional inspections and tests in accordance with príloha č. 7 vyhlášky MPSVR SR č. 508/2009 Z.z.
Professional inspection
This involves regular professional inspections by an inspection technician, who checks the overall technical condition of the crane, its mechanisms, and safety features. The aim is to detect potential faults and prevent malfunctions.
Professional testing
Unlike a professional inspection, a professional test also includes a load test of the crane and detailed testing of the functionality of safety equipment during load handling.
Repeated official testing
This is a repeat of the official test before its expiry date and focuses on the overall safety of the equipment and its compliance with applicable regulations. The repeat official test is performed every 10 years.
Crane runway inspection
The crane runway must be in perfect condition to ensure reliable and smooth crane operation. Inspections include checking the stability, levelness, and wear of the rails.
Inspection of the technical condition of the equipment
These inspections are recommended and prescribed by the crane manufacturer. During these inspections, the overall technical condition of the equipment is checked, with particular attention paid to the parts of the machine that are most exposed to external influences or are most likely to wear out.
How often should professional inspections and tests be carried out?
The frequency of inspections varies depending on the equipment group and its use. However, it is important to note that in demanding working environments, inspections must be carried out more frequently.
How often should a professional inspection be performed?
For cranes belonging to group Aa every 2 years
For cranes belonging to group Ba1 every 3 years
How often should a professional test be performed?
For cranes belonging to group Aa every 4 years
For cranes belonging to group Ba1 every 6 years
How often should crane tracks be inspected?
Crane runway inspections are typically performed together with crane inspections, or at a time specified by the crane runway manufacturer.
When should a repeated official inspection be performed?
For cranes belonging to group Aa, every 10 years
How often should an inspection of the technical condition of the equipment be performed?
The frequency of an inspection of the technical condition of the equipment is determined by the equipment manufacturer. In the relevant documentation, each device is classified into operating groups, based on which the time intervals between individual inspections are determined. These intervals can be, for example, 6 months, 9 months, 1 year, and so on. We must follow the specified intervals.
Who is responsible for revisions?
The crane operator is responsible for ensuring that professional inspections and tests are carried out. This means that they are responsible for:
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Compliance with inspection intervals – checking when the next inspection is due, |
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Record keeping – keeping all records of inspections performed, |
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Resolving identified faults – if the inspection reveals a fault, it must be resolved as soon as possible. |
What can happen if you neglect revisions?
Neglecting mandatory inspections can have various undesirable consequences:
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Breakdowns and costly repairs – small problems can escalate into major and expensive breakdowns |
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Accidents and injuries – poorly maintained cranes pose a risk to employees |
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Fines – during inspections, inspectors check whether all revisions have been carried out on time. |
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Production interruption – if the crane stops working, it can halt the entire production process |
If you want to be sure that your equipment is always thoroughly inspected, the best solution is to work with experts who will take care of regular inspections and ensure their safety and reliability.
| Contact us and schedule an inspection of your cranes |
