Before the crane can be put into operation for the first time, a test must be carried out.  The end user is responsible for this test prior to initial commissioning.

The end user of the crane is responsible for the proper qualifications of the examiner.

Examples of qualified persons:

─     Persons with comprehensive knowledge from specialist training in engineering and in the electrical systems of cranes.

─     Persons with sufficient experience in the operation, installation and maintenance of cranes.

─     Persons with comprehensive knowledge regarding the relevant technical rules, directives and safety regulations applicable in the respective country.

─     Persons receiving regular training from ABUS.

The qualified person inspecting the crane is responsible for the type and scope of the test.

The items to be checked in the following list represent a general overview regarding the scope of testing of ABUS cranes. Depending on the type, not all components will be present on the crane.

The decision as to whether the crane is in perfect condition may be made only by the person inspecting the crane. Any inadequacies, if found, must be eliminated. The examiner decides whether the crane has to be tested again afterward.

If locally applicable regulations specify further tests, these are likewise to be carried out.

The examiner tests the operational crane. In doing so, it must be ensured that no one is subjected to avoidable dangers.

At least the following points must be checked:

   Check the general condition. The components of the crane installation may not be damaged or rusted, or exhibit any other dangerous material changes.

   Check the condition of the supporting structure. It should not exhibit any damage.

   Check that the crane has been correctly installed and connected. It must be installed and connected in accordance with this and other product manuals.

   Check the hoist drive, trolley drive and crane travel drive. They must be functioning flawlessly. For the test for switching on, see the product manual “Operating the ABUS crane”.

   Test the brakes on the hoist drives, trolley drives and crane travel drives. They must be functioning flawlessly. For the test for switching on, see the product manual “Operating the ABUS crane”.

   Check the hoist limit switches (switching points for safety limit switches and emergency limit switches). The hoist must switch off at the appropriate switching points.

   If available: Check the operating limit switches. The hoist must switch off at the appropriate switching points.

   Check the travel limit switch. The crane travel drives and the trolley drives must switch off at the appropriate switching points.

   Check screws. All screws must be tightened and secured. If they are not, tighten the screws with the appropriate tightening torque and secure them.

   If available: Check warning devices. They must function as intended.

   Check the overload protection (e.g. load indicator system LIS or friction clutch). It must function as intended.

   Check all other safety devices on the crane. They must function as intended.

   If available: Check the condition of the wind anchor. It must function as intended.

   Check the signage. The required signs on the crane must be present and legible. Otherwise, replace the signs.

   Perform a static test of the maximum load capacity.

Test using a test load with 1.25 times the maximum load capacity of the crane.

   Perform a dynamic test of the maximum load capacity.

Test using a test load with 1.1 times the maximum load capacity of the crane.

   Only if necessary: Perform additional country-specific tests.

   Only within the EU: Check whether there is a Declaration of Conformity or a Declaration of Incorporation.

Also in countries which do not require a test log book, it is recommended to document the test in the test log book.

   Check the test log book:

─     It must be available

─     It must be within easy reach of all persons working on or with the crane.

─     It must be clearly identified as belonging to the crane.

─     All tests carried out (e.g. test before initial commissioning, regular inspections, tests of the crane track, etc.) must be documented.

Also in countries which do not require a test log book, it is recommended to document the test in the test log book.

   Document the result of the entire test in the test log book.

─     Type and scope of the test

─     Items of the test still to be evaluated

─     Inadequacies detected

─     Assessment of whether the crane may be operated

─     Decision on whether a re-check is necessary

The test log book and the complete documentation for the crane must be within easy reach of all persons working on or with the crane.

   Mark the regular inspection as having been performed with a label clearly visible from the outside, e.g. through an inspection sticker.