Compliance with standards such as CSA B167-16 is crucial for overhead crane maintenance and inspections. These standards outline the minimum requirements for inspections, safety checks, and the qualifications of those who carry out these inspections. At Venter Cranes, we follow these standards meticulously while incorporating manufacturer-specific requirements, such as those from component manufacturers R&M, KONE, ABUS, CM, KITO, SHAWBOX, GH, EMH, MIZIA, DEMAG, CONDRA, and others, ensure the highest levels of safety and efficiency.
Our inspection reports, designed based on over 30 years of hands-on experience in overhead crane inspections, are specifically geared toward preventative maintenance. By addressing potential issues before they escalate, we ensure regulatory compliance and help you avoid unexpected breakdowns, enhancing your operations' reliability.
1. Understanding CSA B167-16 Periodic Inspection Requirements
CSA B167-16 provides the guidelines for ensuring cranes are inspected and maintained regularly to avoid potential hazards. Under these standards, periodic inspections must be scheduled based on the crane's classification, which is determined by its usage. Each class requires different intervals of inspection:
Class A & B (Infrequent/Light Service): Annual inspections.
Class C & D (Moderate/Heavy Service): Semi-annual inspections.
Class E & F (Severe/Continuous Severe Service): Quarterly inspections.
These inspections require a qualified inspector, defined under CSA B167-16 as a tradesperson who also has at least 8,000 hours of direct experience or supervised training in crane maintenance. They are essential in preventing breakdowns, maintaining safety, and ensuring compliance with legal standards. A periodic inspection includes the following general tasks:
Visual and Audible Inspections: Checking for cracked, deformed, or worn parts; verifying the condition of bolts, drums, sheaves, and brakes; and inspecting electrical systems for malfunctions.
Supporting Structure Inspection: Ensuring the crane’s supporting framework can handle its rated load.
Wire Rope and Rigging Inspections: Evaluating the condition of wire ropes, looking for wear and tear, kinking, broken wires, or significant diameter reduction.
Frequency of Inspections Based on Usage
As a rule of thumb, a Class C crane requires frequent inspections every 100 hours of use and periodic inspections every 500 hours. This guideline helps track and schedule inspections effectively.
2. Example of Manufacturer-Specific Requirements: R&M SX Hoist, ABUS Hoists, and Condra Hoists
In addition to the general requirements under CSA B167-16, component manufacturers like R&M, ABUS, and Condra provide specific guidelines for inspecting their equipment. The additional requirements for these cranes/hoists are found in the owners' manuals. We will only offer these three examples to keep this guide short. Further information is available from our office.
R&M / KONE Cranes/Hoists
Brake Inspection: The R&M SX Hoist or KONE CXT requires brake inspections to measure the brake disc thickness and adjust or replace it as necessary.
Whenever the hoisting machinery is disassembled or an overspeed event occurs, the drive coupling between the motor and gearbox must be checked and potentially replaced.
Drum and Wire Rope Wear: Drums and wire ropes require visual and measured inspections. Wear and deformation must be addressed immediately, and regular lubrication is necessary to prevent corrosion.
Overload Protection Test: An annual test is conducted to verify the proper functioning of the overload protection system, which halts operation when lifting beyond the crane's capacity.
ABUS Cranes/Hoists
General Condition: Inspect the crane's overall condition to ensure no damage, rust, or dangerous material changes are present.
Supporting Structure: The crane's supporting structure must be free of damage.
Brake Testing: Test the brakes on the hoist, trolley, and crane travel drives to ensure flawless functioning.
Limit Switches: Check hoist and travel limit switches to ensure they switch off at appropriate points.
Fasteners and Screws: Ensure all screws are properly tightened and secured with appropriate torque.
Overload Protection: Inspect the overload protection, such as the load indicator system, to ensure it operates correctly.
Wire Rope Inspection: Inspect wire ropes at the cable drum and the fixed-point crosshead for damage, wear, or looseness.
Lubrication: Ensure all moving parts, including wire ropes, are adequately lubricated with the correct lubricant.
Brake Lining and Air Gap Inspection: Measure the brake lining thickness and air gap width and adjust or replace components as necessary based on wear patterns.
Condra Cranes/Hoists
Condra has a comprehensive list of specific maintenance tasks on their website to ensure safety and functionality. Regular maintenance is essential, especially under heavy-duty conditions. Below are the critical inspection and maintenance points for
Condra Cranes/Hoists:
Hoist Brake Assembly:
Adjustment for Lining Wear: The brake lining wear must be regularly checked. The gap between the magnet and the pressure plate is adjusted to 0.6 mm for single discs and 0.8 mm for double discs. When the gap reaches 1.6 mm, the linings must be replaced to prevent slippage.
Brake Lining Replacement: If the brake lining wears down to 5 mm, it must be replaced. The brake discs and pressure plates should also be checked for distortion and wear, ensuring they move freely on the spline and guide pins.
Drum, Cover, and Rope Guide Assembly:
Rope and Rope Guide: Regular greasing of the rope and rope guide using graphite grease is essential. In dirty environments, thorough cleaning is required before applying new grease.
Wire Rope Replacement: The wire rope must be inspected and replaced if signs of wear, broken strands, or corrosion are detected.
Brake Rectifier Protection Fuses:
Use only "ultra-rapid" type fuses. Contact Condra Service for the appropriate spare fuses and information.
Additional Inspection Points:
Grease Rope Guide and Drum: Regularly grease the rope guide and drum to ensure smooth operation.
Check Oil Levels in Gearboxes: Maintain proper oil levels in all gearboxes and refill as necessary.
Change Oil in the Hoist Gearbox: Regularly replace the oil in the Hoist Gearbox following manufacturer recommendations.
Oil/Grease Travel Gearboxes: Change oil or grease in the travel gearboxes at specified intervals.
Grease Plumber Blocks: Ensure plumber blocks are sufficiently greased to prevent wear.
Grease Open Reduction: Ensure open reduction components are greased regularly to reduce friction and wear.
Check Connections, Terminals, and Cables: Inspect all electrical connections and cables to ensure they are securely connected and free from damage.
Inspect Magnets and Connections: Examine the magnets and their connections for any signs of wear or loose connections.
Check and Adjust Brakes: Adjust the brakes as necessary and report on the condition of the brake linings, replacing them if needed.
Inspect the rope guide, rope, and securing devices: Ensure they are in good condition.
Check for Oil Leaks & Oil Levels: Inspect the gearbox for leaks and maintain the correct oil level. Replace the oil according to lubrication instructions.
Test Limit Switches: Check the operation of the limit switch, including the ultimate limit switch, to ensure proper functionality in both the up and down positions.
These periodic maintenance tasks for Hoists & Cranes and those of other component manufacturers ensure smooth operation, longevity, and adherence to safety standards.
3. Local OHS Regulations and Compliance
In addition to CSA B167-16, businesses must comply with local Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) regulations. For instance, in Saskatchewan, the following regulations are crucial for crane safety:
Log Book Requirements: Cranes over five tonnes of capacity must maintain a log book documenting all inspections, maintenance, and repairs.
Load Rating: Cranes must always display legible load ratings that are accessible to operators.
Inspection Frequency: Cranes must be inspected at the start of each shift and periodically, as the manufacturer recommends.
By adhering to both CSA and OHS regulations, businesses ensure the safety and functionality of their equipment while avoiding potential penalties.
4. Venter Cranes Approach
At Venter Cranes, we exceed the minimum requirements set forth by CSA B167-16 and individual manufacturers. Our comprehensive inspection services include:
Brake Cleaning and Adjustment: We measure and report brake wear, providing photographic documentation for transparency.
Wire Rope and Drum Inspection: Detailed checks for wear, damage, and proper lubrication are conducted, with all findings recorded.
Electrical System Testing: We inspect wiring, contactor resistances, and other electrical components to ensure proper functioning.
Runway Inspections: Our runway inspections are thorough, covering all bolts, welds, anchors, and power bars.
Electronic Log Books: We maintain an electronic logbook for each client's equipment, recording every service, repair, and inspection.
By offering such detailed services, Venter Cranes ensures clients have all the information necessary to implement a preventative maintenance plan, minimizing the risk of unexpected breakdowns.
5. Conclusion
Periodic inspections are critical to maintaining the safety and functionality of overhead cranes. Compliance with CSA B167-16, OHS regulations, and manufacturer-specific guidelines, such as those from R&M, ABUS and CONDRA, ensures that businesses avoid unnecessary downtime and safety hazards. At Venter Cranes, we are committed to exceeding these standards by providing detailed, comprehensive inspections that meet regulatory requirements and help extend the life of your equipment.
Our expert team provides transparent, detailed inspection reports and maintains electronic logbooks for tracking maintenance and repairs. We build lasting relationships with our clients, gaining insights into their operations with each service and handling all aspects of crane care—from repairs to future inspections.
Improve the safety and efficiency of your operations with our thorough and compliant crane inspection services. Contact Venter Cranes today for more details or to schedule your next inspection.
About the Author:
Bradley Sliedrecht is the Operations Manager at Venter Cranes and has over 30 years of experience as an Overhead Crane Technician. He is a Certified OHC Trainer, Qualified Electrician, Journeyman Millwright, CWB Welding Supervisor, and Rigging Inspector. Bradley holds both a Bachelor's and a Master's degree. He brings a wealth of knowledge and hands-on expertise to the industry. His commitment to safety and high standards in crane maintenance has made him a trusted professional in his field.
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