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Lifting equipment includes forklift trucks, stackers, overhead cranes, hoists, certain cranes and lifting tables. Let's take a look at the main regulatory provisions applicable, and in particular the checks to which they are subject.
What's more, the workers operating them must be trained and, for the most high-risk equipment, must hold a driving license.
Note: we will not deal here with regulations specific to elevators and hoists.
What are the main mandatory checks?
As mentioned in the introduction, lifting equipment is subject to certain inspections. These checks must be carried out by competent personnel. They may be carried out by people within the company, provided they have the necessary qualifications. In practice, they are often carried out by specialized companies (inspection service providers, maintenance companies, etc.).
Note: some equipment is not concerned. Example: pallet trucks that lift loads just high enough to move them off the ground.
The following table shows the main checks:
The suitability test consists of checking that the lifting equipment is suitable for the work to be carried out and the risks to which workers are exposed, and that it will be installed and used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
Don't forget to provide the checker with loads enabling him to check the CMU (maximum working load) of the equipment.
Other specific checks are planned, particularly in the event of a change of site of use.
Note: the lifting accessories (slings, straps, lifting beams, etc.) are also subject to inspection.
Maintenance logbook for lifting equipment
A maintenance log must be created and kept up to date for each piece of lifting equipment. For each operation, the date on which the work was carried out, the names of the persons or companies who carried it out, the nature of the operation and, if necessary, its frequency are indicated.
Note: this log need not be in paper format. It can be kept electronically (e.g. CMMS).
Authorization to operate high-risk equipment
For certain high-risk equipment, workers must hold a driving license.
What lifting equipment is concerned?
- tower cranes ;
- mobile cranes ;
- auxiliary vehicle loading cranes ;
- self-propelled industrial trucks ;
- mobile elevating work platforms ;
- remote-controlled or ride-on construction equipment
How to deliver it?
The driving license is drawn up and issued to the worker by the site manager. It is subject to :
- an aptitude test carried out by the occupational physician,
- a test of the operator's knowledge and skills to drive the work equipment safely (e.g. CACES).
- and knowledge of the location and instructions to be followed at the site(s) of use.
Note: employees holding this authorization must undergo reinforced individual medical monitoring.
Training workers
The operation of lifting equipment is reserved for workers who have received appropriate training.
This training must provide the driver with the knowledge and know-how required for safe driving.
Its duration, content and renewal must be adapted to the work equipment concerned. Training may be provided by the employer or by a specialized training organization.
Conclusion
We recommend :
- make an inventory of all your lifting equipment;
- ensure that the personnel concerned are trained and, for equipment requiring training, that they have a driving license;
- check that :
- these devices are subject to verification,
- corrective actions are implemented,
- that these checks are included in your inspection schedule,
- and that a maintenance log exists.
Note: When renting, please make sure :
- that previous inspections have been carried out by obtaining a copy of the reports of the first commissioning and the last periodic inspection
- and to have the instruction manual.
Photo credit: Pickawood