Your shout07 April 2011

The Association of Lorry Loader Manufacturers and Importers (ALLMI) has recently raised the issue of thorough examinations and load tests for lorry-mounted cranes.

ALLMI's members are concerned over the lack of understanding in the wider industry about the type and frequency of tests required, and also the experience, knowledge and therefore competency requirements for the people conducting these procedures.

Under LOLER (Lifting Operations & Lifting Equipment Regulations), there's a requirement for lorry loaders to be thoroughly examined at least every 12 months. However, there are also further requirements under BS7121 Part 4:2010, in relation to other tests/inspections that need to be performed at other intervals in the crane's life; a fact that some companies performing or undergoing this type of work seem to be completely unaware of.

With regard to the people carrying out these procedures, a competent person is defined in the Approved Code of Practice for LOLER as having "such appropriate practical and theoretical knowledge and experience of the lifting equipment to be thoroughly examined as will enable them to detect defects or weaknesses and to assess their importance in relation to the safety and continued use of the lifting equipment".

So, does the person have the practical knowledge and experience of the safe operation, repair methods, common faults of the machine being examined? Do they have the theoretical knowledge of the relevant legislation and standards, knowledge/experience of the associated hydraulic, mechanical and electrical/safety systems, and how to calculate test loads and calibration parameters?

If the answer is no, they shouldn't be conducting thorough examinations and load tests.

Author
IRTE

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