Chain Hoist

Chain hoist periodic inspection is the examination and testing, by authorised engineers, of manually or electrically driven chain lifting appliances (block tackles, chain blocks, electric chain hoists) — their load-bearing organs, brake and body. Because chain hoists usually operate suspended from a single point, the continued correctness of hook and chain integrity is the first link in preventing dropped-load accidents.

Hoist Types and Inspection Scope

Three basic types are seen in workplaces: the hand chain block, the lever hoist and the electric chain hoist. The inspection logic is common to all; the electric type adds motor, switching and remote control equipment. Main inspected items:

• Load chain, lifting hook and safety latch
• Load brake mechanism and lining condition
• Housing, gearbox and the fixed suspension attachment point
• On electric type: motor, limit switches, control voltage (50 V rule)

Periodic Inspection Items

• Chain measurement: Measurement of link diameter wear, permanent elongation, twisting and surface pits; replacement of the complete chain when the standard's acceptance limits are exceeded.
• Hook examination: Throat opening measurement, deformation, cracks and latch function; free swivel of the hook under load.
• Brake test: Suspension (no-slip) test at nominal load; evaluation of oil/grease contamination and lining wear.
• No-load and load function test: Hoisting/lowering behaviour, noise-vibration observation, limit stop control (electric).
• Plate and capacity: Legibility of the WLL nameplate; detection of capacity-reducing modifications.

Legislation and Standards

The inspection is made under Law No. 6331 and the Work Equipment Regulation; unless otherwise foreseen, the periodic control interval is at least once a year. Technical references are TS EN 13155 for hand chain blocks, TS EN 13157 for lever hoists, TS EN 60204-32 for electric chain hoists, plus the general design rules for lifting equipment and the 2006/42/EC Machinery Directive. Chain hoists not marked with a lifting capacity and lacking a nameplate may not be used under the regulation; this deficiency is recorded as a "critical non-compliance".

Risks and Operator Recommendations

The most frequent non-compliances in the sector are using chain blocks over a fork point or with the latch closed improperly, and ignoring a worn chain. Wear exceeding about ten percent of the link section or permanent elongation destroys the design breaking strength. Straightening a widened hook by bending is prohibited; the hook must be replaced. When the brake lining is oiled the load descends uncontrollably; only the lubricant permitted by the manufacturer may be used on the chain. On electric hoists, a twisted chain payed out before the lift causes the hook to block and the chain to override; therefore the chain must be verified untwisted before lifting.

Outcome

At the end of the control, a signed report showing compliance and the parts to be replaced is issued. Chain hoist inspections are within our Lifting and Handling Machines heading. For similar lifting duties, review our Overhead Travelling Crane and Monorail Crane pages, or contact us for your programme.