Crane load blocks and hooks are an essential component of any crane. They are used to support the weight of the load being lifted and are subjected to significant stresses during use. As with any equipment, load blocks can suffer from wear and tear over time, which can affect their performance and ultimately compromise the safety of the crane. In Alberta, you need to perform, what we call, a 5 year crane block inspection. It’s where the components of the hook are disassembled every 5 years to ensure their continued safe operation.
Load blocks are typically made from high-strength materials such as steel or aluminum and are designed to handle specific weight capacities. The load block is attached to the end of the crane’s boom, and the load is attached to the block’s hook. As the crane lifts the load, the load block is subjected to a significant amount of stress. Over time, this stress can cause the load block to wear, and if left unchecked, the block can become unsafe to use.
To prevent this from happening, load blocks need to be inspected regularly. In Alberta, load blocks are required to be disassembled every 5 years and inspected thoroughly. During the disassembly process, the load block is taken apart, and each component is inspected for wear, cracks, or any other damage that may have occurred during use. The block’s sheaves, which are the pulley wheels that guide the wire rope, are inspected for wear and any other damage.
The disassembly process also includes cleaning and lubricating each component of the load block. This ensures that the block operates smoothly and reduces wear and tear on the block’s components. Any worn or damaged components are replaced, and the block is reassembled and tested to ensure it meets the manufacturer’s specifications.
Regular inspection and maintenance of load blocks are critical to ensuring the safe operation of cranes. By disassembling and inspecting load blocks every 5 years, any potential issues can be identified and addressed before they become a safety concern. This not only protects the crane operator and other workers on the job site but also helps to prevent accidents and injuries.
In Alberta, load blocks are required to be disassembled every 5 years as part of the province’s Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) regulations. These regulations are designed to ensure the safety of workers in the province and to minimize the risk of accidents and injuries in the workplace.
In conclusion, load blocks are an essential component of any crane and need to be inspected regularly to ensure their safe operation. Disassembling and inspecting load blocks every 5 years is a critical part of the maintenance process and is required by OHS regulations in Alberta. By adhering to these regulations, crane operators and other workers on job sites can work with confidence, knowing that the equipment they are using is safe and reliable.