Requirements for Overhead Crane Inspectors
BEWARE… Crane Inspection is WAY, WAY, Way more than just common sense!!! Formal training is absolutely essential.
Last week we examined the requirements to be an Overhead Crane Technician. This week we’re looking at the training requirements of an EOT Overhead Crane Inspector. Although one person can attain the skill levels of both jobs, it’s equally possible to be a Crane Tech while not being qualified to be a Crane Inspector and visa-versa.
In a nutshell, the Crane Tech can be thought of as more of a “tools/fixit” person, while the Inspector is more versed in the various rules and regulations.
Here’s a quick overview of the EOT Overhead Crane Inspector’s qualification requirements.
CMAA Spec 78, Overhead Crane Inspector Qualification Requirements
As we did last week, let’s drill down into a few details of Spec 78
2.2.1 Crane Inspector Work Experience
A crane inspector should have a minimum of 2,000 hours of relevant work experience and training related to maintaining, inspecting, servicing, repairing and modifying cranes. This individual shall have a working knowledge of how to identify deficiencies to mechanical, structural, and electrical crane components and associated hoisting equipment. Under no circumstances shall an individual be permitted to perform inspections that has not received appropriate training and cannot demonstrate a working knowledge of the codes, regulations and the product being inspected.
Note, the underline emphasis is mine.
It may be assumed that all Crane inspection companies use experienced AND formally trained personnel, but that would be a false assumption on the buyer’s part. Buyers should always insist on copies of the formal training certificates along with the crane inspection reports. All of which should be properly filed for possible future reference in the event of a crane accident or dispute.
In the most simple terms, don’t pay the invoice until you receive the proper proof of formal crane inspector training.
2.2.4 Required Formal Training
2.2.4.1 The inspector shall have received formal training in the areas of safety and design codes related to cranes regulations; safe operating practices, report writing, documentation; and communication skills.
2.2.4.2 Due to continuing changes and updates to standards and codes, an inspector shall receive additional formal training every two years and be able to provide documentation of such training.
2.2.4.4.3 Safety - training on all aspects of job-site safety and safe work practices not limited to proper crane operation and the understanding of crane controls or additional on-site training as required by the customer. Refer to section 78-3.
2.2.4.4.4 Tools and Equipment - training on the proper and safe operation of work tools and equipment such as ladders, man-lifts, jacks, hand tools, meters, etc.
2.2.5 TESTING
The inspector shall be required to demonstrate proficiency by passing both a written and practical examination. Inspector should be able to present documentation of successful completion of above qualifications.
In a nutshell, the big difference in the Crane Inspector qualifications is in the requirement for formal and regular periodic training.
BOTTOM-LINE
As I’ve said repeatedly, for both EOT Crane owners as well as Overhead Crane Inspectors, owning a copy of CMAA Spec 78 is the best fifty bucks you can spend.