Load Testing

Load tests confirm the ability of the crane and hoist to safely operate as intended, so they must be completed whenever overhead lifting equipment is newly installed, altered, repaired, or modified before being placed into service. Existing crane and hoist systems should be load tested at a minimum of once every four years.

The test load used must be at least 100% and no more than 125% of the equipment’s rated capacity unless otherwise recommended by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM). The weight itself should be certified prior to testing. Load tests should be dynamic, meaning they should confirm that the overhead crane and hoist functions safely and properly as they move to lift and lower the test load and transport it over the length of the bridge and runway. All findings and reports should be kept on file for the lifetime of the equipment.