Third party inspections
Australian Standard® AS 2550.1—2011
Cranes, hoists and winches—Safe use
Part 1: General requirements
1.4.15 Third-party inspection
An inspection carried out by an independent competent person, who is not involved in the maintenance of the crane.
NOTE: For the purpose of this definition, ‘independent’ means not employed by the same organization unless that organization uses a quality process that confirms independence.
7.3.4 Periodic third-party inspections
Each crane shall undergo a periodic third-party inspection to provide independent advice on whether the level of maintenance and repairs are in accordance with this Standard.
The frequency of periodic third-party inspection shall be based on the working environment and the frequency and severity of use of the crane.
NOTE: The periods specified in Table F1 of Appendix F should not be exceeded.
The inspection shall include all items specified in instructions written in accordance with this Standard and include all items specified by the manufacturer for annual inspection together with all routine inspection and maintenance items (see Clause 7.3.3).
As part of this inspection, the maintenance records of the crane shall be reviewed prior to the inspection. After the inspection, a report on the current condition of the crane shall be compiled.
NOTE: The usage of the crane should be verified for consistency with the design classification.
Particular attention should be given to the following:
(a) Past state of loading and utilization as compared to the crane classifications.
(b) Future intended state of loading and utilization as required by the user of the crane.
The inspection shall include checking electrical, mechanical and structural components for safe condition and function. Opening of cover plates and removal of guards shall be as considered necessary by the inspector due to the existing condition. Particular attention shall be paid to any component with a recent or existing history of repeated failures.
The inspection shall ensure that the requirements of Clauses 7.3.2, 7.3.3 and 7.3.5 have been completed.
NOTES:
- As the result of a periodic third-party inspection, a competent person may recommend a major inspection.
- For details of inspections for particular types of cranes, refer to relevant Part of the AS 2550 series.
- Table F1 of Appendix F provides guidance on the inspection frequency for periodic third-party inspections for typical crane classifications where a program of third-party inspections is instituted.
TABLE F1
RECOMMENDED MINIMUM MAINTENANCE AND INSPECTION SERVICE
REQUIREMENTS
Periodic third-party inspection, Weeks 52
NOTE: Periods may be varied dependent on the operating environment, the frequency and intensity of use