Before a mobile crane is put into operation and starts traveling on the road or moving around a worksite, it is of utmost importance to conduct thorough pre-departure inspections. These inspections are designed to ensure that the crane is in a safe and proper working condition, minimizing the risks associated with its operation and protecting the safety of both the operator and the surrounding environment. The following sections will detail the specific inspection items and requirements.
II. Inspection of the Crane’s Technical Condition
(1) Conducting inspections according to stipulated items and standards to ensure that all parts of the crane are in excellent technical condition. The technical condition of a mobile crane encompasses various aspects, and a comprehensive inspection is necessary to guarantee its safe operation. Special attention should be paid to several key components during the inspection process.
Firstly, the control devices of the crane play a crucial role in its operation. These include the levers, pedals, and control panels that allow the operator to manipulate the crane’s movements, such as lifting, lowering, swinging, and traveling. Any malfunction or improper operation of these control devices could lead to unpredictable movements of the crane, posing a significant safety hazard. Therefore, they need to be carefully examined to ensure that they are functioning smoothly, with no signs of sticking, looseness, or erratic behavior. For example, the joystick used to control the boom’s movement should respond accurately to the operator’s input, without any delay or sudden jerks.
Secondly, the hydraulic devices of the crane are another vital area of inspection. Hydraulic systems are responsible for powering many of the crane’s functions, such as lifting heavy loads and extending or retracting the boom. A leak in the hydraulic system can not only reduce the crane’s lifting capacity but also cause sudden drops in the load being lifted, which is extremely dangerous. Inspectors should check for any signs of hydraulic fluid leakage around the hoses, cylinders, and valves. The hydraulic fluid level should also be within the recommended range, as insufficient fluid can lead to poor performance and potential damage to the hydraulic components. Additionally, the operation of the hydraulic pumps and motors should be tested to ensure that they are providing the necessary pressure and flow rate to operate the crane’s functions smoothly.
Safety devices are, without a doubt, a top priority during the inspection. These include devices such as load limiters, anti-two-block systems, and emergency stop buttons. Load limiters are designed to prevent the crane from lifting loads that exceed its rated capacity, thereby protecting the crane’s structure and ensuring the safety of the operation. The anti-two-block system is crucial for preventing the collision between the boom and the hoist block, which could cause severe damage to the crane and endanger the lives of those in the vicinity. Emergency stop buttons should be easily accessible and in proper working condition, allowing the operator to quickly halt the crane’s operation in case of an emergency. All these safety devices must be tested to confirm that they are functioning as intended and will activate promptly when needed.
The condition of the wire ropes is also a significant factor in the crane’s safety. Wire ropes are used to lift and lower the load, and any damage or excessive wear to them can result in a catastrophic failure. Inspectors should look for signs of fraying, kinking, or broken wires on the surface of the wire ropes. The diameter of the wire ropes should be measured to ensure that it has not been reduced due to wear, as a significant reduction in diameter can indicate a weakened rope that may not be able to support the intended load. The connection points of the wire ropes, such as the hooks and shackles, should also be inspected for proper fastening and any signs of damage or deformation.
Only when all these components – the control devices, hydraulic devices, safety devices, and wire ropes – meet the safety standards and are in a satisfactory condition can the crane be considered safe for use. It is strictly prohibited to operate the crane if it has any known faults or issues, as this is equivalent to operating it “while sick,” which poses a serious threat to safety.
III. Inspection of Required Documents
(2) Before driving the crane, it is necessary to check various documents required for driving, such as the vehicle registration certificate and the driver’s license. Driving without the necessary documents is not allowed.
The vehicle registration certificate is an official document that proves the legal ownership and registration of the mobile crane. It contains important information such as the crane’s identification number, model, and registration details. Checking the vehicle registration certificate ensures that the crane is a legally registered vehicle and is eligible to be operated on the roads or within the worksite. This document also serves as a reference for any administrative or legal matters related to the crane’s operation.
The driver’s license is, of course, essential for the person operating the crane. It demonstrates that the operator has undergone the necessary training and has obtained the legal authorization to drive the crane. Different types of cranes may require different types of driver’s licenses, depending on their size, lifting capacity, and operating characteristics. For example, operating a large mobile crane with a high lifting capacity may require a more specialized license than operating a smaller, less powerful crane. Therefore, it is crucial to verify that the operator holds the correct and valid driver’s license corresponding to the type of crane being operated.
In addition to these two main documents, there may be other documents or permits that are required depending on the specific circumstances of the crane’s operation. For example, if the crane is to be used in a particular construction site, there may be site-specific permits or approvals that need to be obtained. These could include permits for entering the site, operating within certain areas of the site, or handling specific types of loads. All these documents should be carefully checked before the crane starts its journey or operation to ensure compliance with the relevant regulations and to avoid any legal issues or disruptions to the work.
In conclusion, the pre-departure inspections for mobile cranes involve a comprehensive check of both the crane’s technical condition and the required documents. These inspections are essential for ensuring the safety and legality of the crane’s operation. By adhering to these inspection procedures, crane operators can significantly reduce the risks associated with their work and contribute to a safer working environment for everyone involved.
