Why is crane load testing required?

Crane load testing is required under CSA B167-16 and ASME standards to verify the safety, structural integrity, and performance of cranes and hoists. It ensures lifting systems operate safely under real load conditions.

What is WaterWeights® load testing?

WaterWeights® load testing uses calibrated, water-filled proof load bags as a safe, flexible alternative to solid weights. It allows accurate testing with reduced risk and easier transport.

Do you provide certification after testing?

Yes. After each crane load test, SafeLift Crane Aid provides a CSA and ASME-compliant certificate of load test documenting results, standards, and testing methods used.

Load Testing

Ensure your lifting systems are safe, sturdy, and compliant, whether newly installed or in long-term service.

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WaterWeights load testing, large yellow bags filled with water hanging from crane/hoist, worker on left wearing reflective gear

Why load testing matters

Load testing is critically important for any lifting equipment that is either newly installed or been in use for a long period of time. Load testing reveals functional errors that only occur under stress and lowers the frequency and serious nature of incidents involving overhead cranes and hoists.

Within Canada, Load Testing is required on all lifting equipment to fulfill CSA B167-16 7.3 Load testing 7.3.1 and ASME. SECTION 2-2.1: INSPECTION B30.2.2005. 2-2.2.2 regulations and requirements. After completion of each load test we supply a certificate of load test in accordance with these CSA and ASME regulations.

With SafeLift Crane Aid, you get more than a test.

You get peace of mind.

ASME. SECTION 2-2.1: Inspection

B30.2.2005. 2-2.2.2

(a) New, reinstalled, altered, repaired, and modified cranes should be load tested prior to initial use, as determined by a qualified person.

(b) Load testing of altered, repaired, and modified cranes may be limited to the functions affected by the alteration, repair, or modification, as determined by a qualified person.

(c) The replacement of load chain and rope is specifically excluded from this load test; however, an operational test of the hoist shall be made in accordance with para. 2-2.2.1(b) prior to putting the crane back in service.

(d) If a load test is conducted, the load shall be not less than 100% of the rated load of the crane or hoist(s), whichever governs; or more than 125% of the rated load of the crane or hoist(s), whichever governs; unless otherwise recommended by the manufacturer or a qualified person.

(e) If a load test is conducted, the person conducting the load test shall prepare a written report of the load 19 ASME 830.2-2005 sustained during the test and the operations performed during the test. Reports shall be placed on file. if) If a load test is conducted, operations shall be performed as outlined below or as modified by a qualified person.

(1) Hoist the test load a distance to assure that the load is supported by the crane and held by the hoist brake(s).

(2) Transport the test load by means of the trolley for the full length of the bridge.

(3) Transport the test load by means of the bridge for the full length of the runway in one direction with the trolley as close to the extreme right-hand end of the crane as practical, and in the other direction with the trolley as close to the left-hand end of the crane as practical.

(4) Lower the test load and stop and hold the test load with the brake(s).

CSA B167-16 7.3 Load testing

7.3.1

Load tests shall be performed as specified in Clauses 7.3.2 through 7.3.4 prior to use for new, reinstalled, or modified cranes and hoists. The load test shall be performed under the supervision of an engineer or other competent person. For cranes that have undergone repair or replacement of critical components, the load test may be limited to the functions affected by the repair as determined by an engineer or other competent person.

Notes:

1) Load tests are generally not necessary following basic maintenance and repairs.

2) Annex I provides guidance and sample procedures for load tests.

What does the process involve?

An extensive and conclusive check is performed before and after a load test.

This check includes:

The deflection of the bridge and any fails within the rope and welds of the crane.
The crane’s required load limits are set in order to stop over loading.

This is necessary because, over time, load limits can go out of calibration from overuse or an incorrect install of the hoist.

WaterWeights load testing, large yellow bags filled with water hanging from overhead crane

Load testing services

SafeLift Crane Aid offers a wide range of crane & hoist load testing solutions to industries from land to sea, in any environment.

We have provided load test solutions since 1993 from Southern Africa to Canada on monorails, container handling cranes, overhead cranes, davits, derricks, winches and virtually any lifting equipment or load-bearing structure, from ship to shore.

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Load testing crane with hanging concrete blocks

Types of loads

Static load

A load that weighs more than the required amount needed. It is lifted with a load cell connected to ensure not to go more than 20% over the rated lift weight of lifting equipment.

Dynamic load

A load that is exactly 20% over the amount the lifting equipment is rated to lift. This is the most accurate way to test a load. Most modern cranes require a dynamic load to set the load limits.

Getting a dynamic weight and the use of solid weights on site can be time consuming and not always possible, which are some of the reasons why SafeLift Crane Aid has become an agent for WaterWeights® in Canada.

WaterWeights® Bag Rentals – In stock in Langham

WaterWeights® water-filled proof load test bags are recognized worldwide as a safer, more flexible alternative to solid test weights. The load is raised gradually and under control, so any problem shows up before the full test load is reached. SafeLift Crane Aid is an agent for WaterWeights® in Canada.

We keep 6.5 t, 12.5 t, 35 t and 55 t WaterWeights® bags in Langham, ready to ship anywhere in Canada. Rent the bags on their own for your own qualified crew, or book SafeLift Crane Aid to carry out the complete load test and certification.

6.5 t and 12.5 t Low Headroom bags: wider, shorter bags for tests where headroom is limited.
35 t and 55 t standard bags: for bigger tests. Spreader beams let several bags be combined for even higher test loads.
Every bag is certified to a 6:1 safety factor and proof tested at 2:1.
An empty bag weighs only a small fraction of its test load, so even the 55 t bag packs down for freight. It is filled with water on site, so no heavy solid weights have to be trucked in.

Optional rental add-ons: calibrated flow meters or load cells, and water pumps, are also available for rent. Contact us for rental rates.

To book, tell us the rated capacity of your crane or lifting equipment, the test load you need, the available headroom, your site location and your dates. We'll recommend the right bags and confirm availability, rates and shipping.

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