All overhead crane regulations, maintenance and inspection requirements are outlined and regulated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. This agency also offers training courses in overhead crane safety and proper operational procedures.
Inspections on overhead cranes must be done regularly. According to Lab Safety Supply, overhead cranes should be inspected periodically for loose bolts, cracks, corroded components, excessive wear and deteriorated electrical components. Operating mechanisms should be inspected on a daily basis. Hooks and hoist chains are also inspected on a daily basis, making sure they remain free of deformations and cracks.
According to Lab Safety Supply, an overhead crane’s load limit needs to remain clearly marked on the side of the crane. Overhead crane operators need to make sure that a load is properly secured before any hoisting takes place. To avoid swaying, horizontal load movement should be done slowly. Loads should not be kept suspended for long periods of time and the operator should have access to audible equipment to warn nearby workers when the crane is performing a lift.