Cranes are versatile and essential pieces of equipment used in construction, as well as numerous other industries. A crane inspection program can help reduce crane accidents and improve operation as well as educate owners/operators on training and requirements. Construction Equipment Guide (CEG ) recently spoke with Jeff Holt and Allen Rex of Modern Equipment about its AMI Crane Inspection Program. The company is located in Hatfield, PA, and offers trained, certified inspectors for these important inspections.

When did the Crane Inspection Program start and what is it?

Annual Machine Inspections (AMI) have been required by OSHA since the late 1980s. According to the guidelines, the operator is required to do a once-a-day quick inspection. In turn, the owner is required to inspect the machinery monthly and keep records on the general condition of the equipment. Inspections look at cables, levers and hooks and for such irregularities as cracks, etc. A thorough yearly inspection also is required. Modern Equipment is one of the few equipment companies that performs annual inspections. The inspection program meets all OSHA standards and accreditation requirements.

Why do these inspections?

Safety is the main reason these inspections are accomplished. These inspections help reduce personal injury accidents and also lower workman’s compensation claims. In the long run, they reduce product and property damage. Also, if OSHA inspects a company’s equipment, the documentation will be on hand to show when the inspection and/or repair was made.

What happens if a problem is found during an inspection?

Modern’s crane inspection and service program offers certified personnel that are familiar with proper testing techniques and proper documentation procedures, so that they may carry out the inspection program. It works very much like a state automobile inspection. If a problem or deficiency is discovered during an inspection, it is the owner’s prerogative to get the equipment repaired. However, the inspector does not have the authority to take the crane out of service. Modern will do the repairs if needed for an extra charge. However, Modern does not offer a certificate if equipment fails an inspection.

Does Modern provide a detailed report to someone who purchases equipment from Modern?

Modern gives a completed inspection report to a customer when he or she purchases the equipment. Each report includes a summary of the important information about that equipment. In addition, Modern sets up a complete inspection and preventive maintenance program for the company. This can take the form of a yearly inspection by Modern Equipment and monthly by the customer’s employees. Some customers opt to have Modern do all of its inspections and preventive maintenance.

This story also appears on Crane Equipment Guide.

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