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Frequently Asked Questions
Helpful answers to frequently Asked Questions from the Overhead Material Handling experts at OMH. Check back frequently for added useful information. Click “Contact Us”. We can answer your question.
QUESTION
Does OSHA require all cranes to have a warning device, for example, a horn or light?
ANSWER
Section 1910.179(i) specifically states: “Except for floor-operated cranes, a gong or other effective warning signal shall be provided for each crane equipped with a power traveling mechanism”. However, keep in mind that the rules created by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), which are accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), can be just as binding in a court of law. ANSI B30.17-1.12 clearly states: “On cab operated and remote operated cranes, a gong or other warning means shall be provided for each crane equipped with a power traveling bridge or trolley”.
Both OSHA and ANSI indicate when a warning device should be used. OSHA section 1910.179(n)(3)(xi) states: “The warning signal shall be sounded when starting the bridge and when the load or hook approaches near or over personnel”. ANSI B30.17-3.1.5(o)(1) and (2) also state that a warning device such as a horn or light shall be activated “before starting the bridge or trolley motion of the crane and intermittently during travel of the crane when approaching persons in the path of the load”.
We interpret this to mean that a warning device is required on radio controlled, cab operated and pulpit operated cranes.
QUESTION
We always recommend 4 bar electrification, especially when inverters are used. Is there an official NEC position?
ANSWER
NEC Section 610.61 was revised in the 2005 edition to no longer permit trolley and bridge frames to be considered electrically grounded through the trolley and bridge wheels to their respective tracks. This was allowed in the past. A separate grounding conductor must be provided for new installations. We are interpreting this to mean new systems. Existing 3 conductor 3 phase systems can be repaired, modified or even extended. Additional cranes can be added to an existing system using 3 conductors. When variable frequency drives are used, we insist on 4 conductors.
QUESTION
What are the OSHA required inspections for cranes and hoists in regular use and what is the frequency?
ANSWER
Section 1910.179 of the federal regulations (OSHA) section (j)(1) specifically states: Frequent Inspections-Daily to Monthly intervals and Periodic Inspections-1 to 12 month intervals. There are also some items that require inspections daily. In section (n) there are items that are requiring inspections daily. We are interpreting this to mean the following:
Each manufacturer has requirements for their equipment depending on the crane or hoist class and duty cycle.
At a minimum, crane operators are required to perform a non-documented inspection of a crane or hoist at the start of their crane shift. Also, each crane or hoist in regular use must be inspected once a month with a signed report in accordance with the frequent inspection requirements of section (j). Each crane or hoist in regular use must be inspected once a year with a signed report in accordance with the periodic inspection requirements of section (j).
This means eleven monthly and one annual inspection per crane per year as a minimum with signed reports. The operator is required to know how to perform the operational check and must be the one to do so. However the manufacturer may require more inspections for your crane.