If your business in Georgia is in the industry of heavy lifting, you know for a fact that high-quality equipment is necessary not just for the safety of your workers but also the protection of your assets and overall business. It is necessary for industry regulations compliance. When you have unsafe equipment, it can simply mean that your company fails to meet strict government regulations and standards. You can be held liable for any injury and or accidents that can occur among your employees or a third-party as a result of inefficient and ineffective operational processes and occupational safety standards. This is exactly why certain inspections and tests are crucial if you want to ensure the safety and efficacy of your equipment. One good test for your equipment is popularly known as the proof load test.
What exactly is a proof load test?
A proof load test is executed on several items of lifting as well as rigging equipment. It is specially made to ensure that the machinery or heavy equipment has gone through mobile onsite testing and that it is capable of lifting the designated load without any issues.
The test is commonly performed on a static pull test. A proof load test is done as a complementary test that guarantees structural as well as other safety guarantees. Generally, a proof load test is done by placing force for a particular amount of time, typically anywhere from 1.1 to 1.5 times of the designated load or the maximum set working load (MAWL).
A proof load test is often carried out on:
- Motor vehicle lifts
- Patient hoists
- Overhead cranes
- Supporting runways
- Web slings
- Chain blocks
- Lifting accessories
- Telehandlers
- Forklifts
- Building cleaning cradle and suspension
- Passenger and goods lifts
When is a proof load test required in my business?
A proof load test is usually performed to meet safety standards and regulations set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Basically, a proof load test is mandatory on any brand-new unit to confirm that it is all set and safe for use, or on an existing piece of equipment to guarantee its continued safe use and operation.
To do away with accidents and untoward incidents in the workplace, always make sure that your heavy lifting equipment is working efficiently. It is crucial to have it thoroughly tested and inspected on a regular basis to guarantee safe use and efficient work output. This will ensure that the machinery is all set to be used and is in good running condition.
Overall, heavy lifting equipment needs to be tested every twelve months or annually to ensure its safe use and that it will be working seamlessly. Tests must be performed by a certified and qualified person who has the skills and experience to spot any possible issues and defects on the equipment. These tests do not only include a proof load test. Other viable inspections can also be performed, such as welding inspections, structural checkups, visual inspections, nondestructive tests, and magnetic particle inspections.
