Used to lift, lower and move loads, overhead hoists—including wire rope, chain and lever types—transport freely suspended items overhead. Because they perform such high-stakes work, it is critical to schedule regular inspections of this equipment and its components to ensure the overall safety and productivity of a facility and its workers. That’s why the Hoist Manufacturers Institute (HMI) of MHI recently released a new video, “Create a Safe Workplace By Committing to a Hoist Inspection Program,” that overviews the requirements, resources and execution of these equipment evaluations.

The video includes an explanation of the guidelines and requirements from two governing bodies: the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). OSHA requires hoist inspections but does not provide specific guidelines about how they should be conducted; owners should refer to OSHA-CFR 29 Part 1910.179. This regulation covers overhead and gantry cranes, to which hoists are typically attached. It also invokes the ASME national consensus standards, B30.16 Overhead Hoists (Underhung). ASME calls for all new and altered hoists to be inspected by qualified, trained individuals prior to use and at regular intervals.

Additionally, the video advises that all inspections adhere to the guidelines covered in the owner’s manual provided by the hoist manufacturer. Other resources include HMI’s recommended hoist inspection procedures in its free publication, “Hoist Inspection and Maintenance Personnel Manual.” HMI also offers a free pre-inspection checklist that overviews different component areas of focus, including the operating mechanism, hoist limit devices, hooks, latches, and lifting media (chain, rope or strap).

Finally, for facility owners who prefer to engage the services of an independent hoist inspection professional (rather than perform this task in-house), the video recommends connecting with members of HMI—who represent the industry’s leading suppliers of hoisting equipment—to obtain a list of qualified inspectors.

To download a free copy of HMI’s Hoist Inspection and Maintenance Personnel Manual, click here.