The Lifecyle Of Your Lifting Equipment
Lifting equipment has a working life that starts before its first lift and continues through regular use, inspection and maintenance. Knowing what to check at each stage helps keep equipment reliable and helps you identify when it should be removed from service.
1. Choose the Right Equipment
Start by matching the equipment to the load and the lifting task. Check the working load limit (WLL), the load's weight and centre of gravity, the lifting method, and the conditions where the equipment will be used.
Heat, chemicals, sharp edges, moisture and frequent use can affect how equipment performs and how often it needs attention.
Make sure the equipment is suitable, correctly marked and accompanied by the information needed for safe use.
2. Check Before Use
Before each use, the user should check the equipment for visible damage, wear and other signs that could affect safety. The exact checks depend on the equipment type and the manufacturer's instructions.
Look for issues such as:
Deformation, cracks, corrosion or excessive wear.
Broken wires, kinks or crushing in wire rope.
Cuts, abrasion, damaged stitching or heat damage in textile slings.
Bent, twisted or damaged chain links and fittings.
Missing or unreadable identification markings.
Damaged hooks, latches or other components.
If you find a defect or are unsure about the equipment's condition, take it out of use and refer it to a competent person.
3. Inspect at Planned Intervals
Pre-use checks do not replace scheduled inspections or any legally required thorough examinations. Inspection frequency should reflect the type of equipment, how often it is used, the conditions it works in, the risks involved and applicable local regulations.
A competent person should carry out inspections and examinations that require specialist knowledge. Keep records of examinations, defects, repairs and other relevant maintenance so the equipment's history can be reviewed.
Thorough examination intervals depend on the equipment and how it is used. For example, under UK LOLER regulations, equipment used to lift people generally requires thorough examination every six months, unless an examination scheme specifies otherwise.
Requirements vary by jurisdiction, so always confirm the regulations that apply at your workplace.
4. Maintain Equipment for Its Working Conditions
Good maintenance can help preserve equipment and reveal problems before they become more serious.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions and your maintenance plan. Depending on the equipment, this may include cleaning, lubrication, adjustment, storage checks or servicing.
Protect equipment from avoidable damage. Store it in a suitable, dry place; keep it away from chemicals or heat unless it is designed for those conditions; and prevent slings and ropes from being dragged over abrasive surfaces or sharp edges.
Use only approved methods and components when repairing or adjusting lifting equipment.
5. Know When to Retire Equipment
Lifting equipment does not have one universal service life. Retirement depends on its condition, use, environment, inspection findings and manufacturer guidance.
Remove equipment from service when it is damaged, worn beyond the manufacturer's limits, missing essential identification, or otherwise judged unsafe.
Do not put it back into use until a competent person has assessed it and any necessary repairs or actions are complete. Equipment with a dangerous defect should not be used until the defect is remedied.
Give Every Item a Clear Lifecycle
Keeping track of each item's identity, inspection dates, findings, maintenance and repairs makes it easier to plan checks, identify recurring damage and make informed decisions about continued use or retirement.
A simple routine to follow:
Choose the right equipment for the task.
Check equipment before every use.
Inspect equipment at planned intervals.
Maintain equipment according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Remove equipment from service when its condition no longer supports safe use.
By following these steps, businesses can help extend the useful life of their lifting equipment while maintaining safer, more reliable lifting operations.
Disclaimer: This article provides general guidance. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and applicable local legislation, standards and workplace procedures.
