Before operating the hoist, it is important to check the condition of the control handle housing, buttons, and cables. Look for cracks, loose wires, and wear and tear - anything that looks unusual or unsafe. Specific areas to inspect include:

2 Control buttons: labeling and operation

After ensuring that the control handle is in working condition and can be safely operated, the buttons should be tested to ensure that their labeling is clear and correct. You may be familiar with how to operate the controls, but if a new person had to use the hoist, would they be able to identify what each button does? This test is one of the pre-operation tests you should always do before using a lifting hoist.

Things to note when testing

Make sure the area under the hoist or crane is clear of obstructions. Also, make sure no one is under the hoist or in its path, including yourself.

If a limit switch fails, make sure not to drive the end ram of the tail chain into the hoist. This action could damage the hoist.

With these safety precautions in place, you are ready to operate and test the hoist controls. Just a quick run-in check in each direction is sufficient for this part of the check. (You can try the limits). To check for correct operation, follow these steps:

You need to verify that the markings on the control handle are correct - "up" moves the hook up, and "down" moves the hook down.

Test the trolley controls to see if they move the trolley left or right as indicated on the control handle buttons.

Test the beam to ensure it moves in the direction specified on the control handle.

If there are other alarms on the hoist controls, test them as well, such as horns, indicator lights.

One tip: Marking the directions as "left" or "right" can be confusing depending on how the operator is standing, so we recommend marking the controls with "north", "south", "east" and "west" to avoid any confusion.

All functions of the hoist must be working properly and as indicated on the control handles. Otherwise, the hoist must be removed from service.

Once you have ensured that the controls are clearly marked and functioning properly, you can operate the hoist. Remember, if at any time in the future you discover these problems with the control handles, you should remove the hoist from service until the controls are repaired.

(i) The difference between daily inspection and periodic inspection

(ii) Marking and labeling

Labels do not necessarily match every hoist, but they can remind the operator to check and confirm whether the hoist can work normally and safely. It is recommended to check according to the label instructions before starting each shift. The label can be hung in an appropriate position (control handle) to remind the operator to do so.