Overhead Crane Inspection
Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998
Statutory thorough examination of overhead, gantry, jib, and pendant cranes under LOLER 1998.
Overview
An overhead crane inspection is the LOLER thorough examination that keeps your lifting installation safe and compliant. Safe-Lee examines electric overhead travelling cranes, gantry and semi-gantry cranes, jib cranes and pendant-controlled cranes for businesses across Manchester and the North West. We are independent, so our only interest is an accurate report you can rely on.
We plan the visit around your production, examine the crane through its full range of movement, and issue a clear report of thorough examination, typically within one to two working days. Where your site also runs slings, chains and other accessories, we examine those at the same time.
What we inspect
A crane examination covers the structure, the mechanism and the safety systems:
- Main structure, runway beams, end carriages and bracing, for cracks, corrosion and distortion
- Hoist unit: ropes or load chains, drum, sheaves and reeving, for wear and broken wires
- Hook and hook block, for throat opening, wear and free rotation
- Brakes on the hoist, cross-travel and long-travel motions
- Limit switches, end stops and overload protection
- Wheels, flanges and rail alignment
- Pendant, radio or cab controls, and the emergency stop
Inspection frequency
LOLER sets the maximum interval between thorough examinations:
- Every 12 months for a crane used to lift goods
- Every 6 months where the crane is used to lift or lower people
- Every 6 months for lifting accessories used with it, such as slings, chains and shackles
- In line with an examination scheme drawn up by a competent person, where one is in place
- Sooner after substantial repair, modification, or an exceptional event such as a shock load
Common defects we find
On overhead cranes, the findings we most often record include:
- Broken wires, corrosion or reduced diameter in the hoist rope
- Hook throat opening or wear beyond the allowable limit
- Worn or glazed brake linings and slipping brakes
- Failed or misadjusted limit switches
- Wheel flange wear and runway misalignment
- Damaged pendant controls or a faulty emergency stop
Why choose Safe-Lee
Safe-Lee is an independent consultancy, and examinations are carried out by Engineer Surveyor Lee Charnock (EngTech MSOE MBES). Reports are typically issued within one to two working days, and we cover Manchester and the North West. We do not sell or maintain cranes, so there is no pressure to overlook a defect.
For what shapes the price, see our LOLER inspection cost guide, and for the detail on what a competent person checks, our LOLER inspection checklist. More on our LOLER service.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often does an overhead crane need a LOLER examination?
Every 12 months for a crane that lifts goods, and every 6 months where it is used to lift people. Slings and other accessories are examined every 6 months. These are LOLER maximum intervals.
Do you examine gantry and jib cranes too?
Yes. We examine electric overhead travelling cranes, gantry and semi-gantry cranes, jib cranes and pendant-controlled cranes, along with the accessories used with them.
Will the crane be out of use during the examination?
The crane is operated through its movements as part of the examination, so it is out of normal production for the visit. We plan timing around your operation, including out of hours where needed.
Do you provide the report of thorough examination?
Yes. Every examination produces a written report of thorough examination, typically issued within one to two working days, which you keep as your compliance record.
What happens if a serious defect is found?
A defect that is an existing or imminent danger means the crane should be taken out of use until it is put right. We explain the finding on site and record it, with timescales, in the report.
Need a overhead crane inspection?
Quick conversation, honest scoping, fast quote. Talk to a competent person.