How to Manage your Crane Repairs

Repairing a crane is a safe and economical way to work – safe, because you need to know the crane is in good working order before operating it, and economical because repairs will be cheaper than buying a new crane. It is also cheaper in the long run the make sure your cranes are well repaired and are in good working order, as it will cost less than carrying out bigger repairs in the future.

Crane repairs are good for your business because it is a good practice for your lifting equipment. It is also a good habit to get into and should be something that just comes naturally to you, so that you will automatically update and look after your lifting equipment to the best possible standards. These are very good habits to get into and will set you in good stead for the rest of your career.

Do you have to repair your cranes by law?

By law, all lifting equipment must be in good working order before it is operated. If it is found that someone has used lifting equipment that is faulty, then you will be liable as an employer. All lifting equipment has to be safe to operate in order to use it or you could find yourself getting into serious trouble.

The lifting equipment regulations LOLER and PUWER will outline your basic responsibilities in terms of the lifting equipment you own and manage. These regulations will outline how lifting equipment needs to be serviced and inspected to keep it in good condition, hopefully allowing you to avoid costly repairs. They will also outline how to keep up general maintenance and when your cranes will need to be repaired and serviced.

How do you know if your crane needs repairing?

LOLER and PUWER will give you a good overview but ultimately, it is up to you whether you get your lifting equipment repaired. It is your responsibility to get it repaired and nobody else’s, so you must take charge of the process. When you have a piece of lifting equipment or a crane, you must instigate good practices in terms of looking out for malfunctions and checking if something is abnormal. You must either inspect cranes yourself to check them over, or make sure someone competent is responsible for doing this on site.

Keeping track of services and repairs

You will need to keep records of your crane’s servicing and will need documentation detailing any repairs that you have to your equipment. You need to keep all of these in good order for your own records, and if you ever sell the crane, it will be required then as well. This can help you to know if your crane is due one of its regular services – all paperwork should be to hand so you know at a glance what is due and can keep up with your legal obligations. Make sure your crane repair technician records any details of repairs they carry out so you can add them to your crane’s records.