Certification of Lifting Devices and Equipment Overview / Certification of Lifting Devices to AS4991-2004
CSA Engineering addresses the requirements of clients across various industries who have one thing in common – their need for lifting equipment certification.
There are two acceptable ways to verify or lifting device certification, according to Section 12 of AS4991-2004 Lifting Devices:
1. Physical testing up to twice the necessary working load limit (WLL) and alternate verification that can make use of lowered load-proof testing requirements, or
2. Independent engineering evaluation
Our skilled crew is directed by licenced engineers who check all work. Our Engineers are qualified and have the necessary work history of being registered with the following:
1. CPEng – Engineers Australia; NER – National Engineering Register; RPEQ – Board of Professional Engineers of Queensland
Your company can be confident that our team of professionals will evaluate your equipment to make sure that it meets the requirements of the Standard.
How to get equipment certified
Two procedures for lifting equipment certification are described in AS 4991:
- Proof load testing
- Engineering analysis
Proof load testing
This method utilises a variable scale:
- Up to a 10 t Working Load Limit (WLL) is a 2x WLL (0 – 20t)
- From 10t to 160 t, a test of 1.04 x WLL + 9.6 (20 – 176 t)
- Above 160 t requires a 1.1 x WLL (176 t + )
Each device must withstand the load for a minimum of one minute to pass the test, and it cannot have any permanent set deflection that is greater than 0.25%. All testing must be completed in accordance with AS 17025, General Requirements for the Competence of Testing and Calibration Laboratories.
The lifting device must undergo sufficient Non-Destructive Examination and Testing (NDET, also known as NDT) after the proof test to look for signs of flaws or defects.
It is advised that lifting equipment be theoretically analysed before proof testing to discover any potential design defects due to the expense and safety implications if a proof test fails. However, this examination can be far less thorough than that which would be done if certification by engineering analysis were performed (the second method).
Engineering Analysis
Engineering analysis certification is the second technique for lifting certification. This approach necessitates that the design is subjected to evaluation and certification by a third party and that the produced lifting device be put through a series of tests that include:
- Identification of the material
- NDE of welds, castings, and additional possible failure locations (as specified by the designer or Competent person)
- Reduced proof load tests or other testing may still be necessary for some specialised equipment to demonstrate that the lifting device is suitable for use.
Different Types of Lifting Certificates
1. Test Certificate
When equipment is physically proof-tested, these certificates are issued. Depending on what is needed, we can arrange for our staff to visit your worksite or accomplish this internally at one of our locations. Various Australian standards may apply to various types of lifting, rigging, and height safety equipment. Customers of All Lifting may be sure that any load testing is carried out by a member of our team of highly qualified specialists.
2. Mill Certificate
This certificate is supplied exclusively for wire rope by the manufacturer. Among the available data is size, length, diameter, grade, finish, material, lubrication, kind of the core, lay, and minimum breaking force.
3. Visual Inspection Certificate
When a visual inspection is made, this certificate is given. The item doesn’t need to be proof tested. However some new equipment does need to go through a full-proof test. This kind of certificate is typically used for manufactured goods like beams, cages, bins, etc. The requirement for a separate certificate rather than having all of your equipment recorded on an inspection registry could also apply.
At CSA Engineering, we will work with you to ensure that your equipment complies with all relevant requirements since we value offering outstanding customer service.
What Australian Standards are relevant for lifting equipment?
The ME-025 Lifting Tackle group of Standards Australia—the country’s top non-government, not-for-profit standards organization—produces many standards pertinent to the lifting business here in Australia.
The creation and adoption of standards in Australia is its primary role and area of expertise. Additionally, Standards Australia supports Australian participation in the creation of global standards. It establishes technical committees by bringing together pertinent parties and stakeholders (ME-025 Lifting Tackle, for instance). For example, testing is discussed throughout the entirety of AS 3776:2015 Lifting Components for Grade T(80) and V(100) Chain Slings’ 50+ pages.
Standards Australia committees create standards for Australia’s overall benefit through a consensus-building process. Standards Australia’s work improves the country’s economic efficiency and international competitiveness, and helps meet community demands for a safe and sustainable environment.
General requirements for the inspection and integrity of lifting gear
There are many different types of lifting equipment available on the market today. At CSA Engineering, our professional engineering certifications staff evaluate items to make sure they meet their unique Australian Standards requirements.
General Principles
Users must make sure that a “competent person routinely inspects lifting equipment” and that records of these inspections are retained. Naturally, individuals who regularly use lifting equipment should notify any apparent deterioration of any goods and remove them from use. Such items ought to be reported to their supervisors for additional inspection by a qualified individual who will decide whether to trash the item, send it back for service, or order that the manufacturer repair the item before it is sent back for service.
One malfunctioning piece or component of lifting equipment can drastically jeopardize the lift and result in the failure of a load, causing significant damage and/or worker injuries.
FAQs Related to Lifting Certificates
1. How often must lifting gear and other lifting appliances be inspected?
Once every 12 months, the lifting gear and other lifting appliances should be inspected.
2. How often do lifting chains need to be certified?
At least once a year, lifting chains need to be certified
3. How often are proof tests required on lifting clutches?
A proof test using a load equal to 1.2 times the Working Load Limit shall be conducted and recorded at least 12 monthly intervals.
4. What is the Australian Standard for lifting equipment?
AS 4991-2004 is the Australian Standard for lifting equipment
5. I have a specific Lifting or Rigging Requirement. Can you design and engineer a specialized product to my specific needs?
Yes, we can
6. Why should I choose CSA for my lifting and rigging requirements and not someone else?
CSA is a leading provider of lifting and rigging equipment and services, with a commitment to safety, quality, and customer satisfaction. CSA offers a wide range of products and services, including custom-designed solutions for specific applications. In addition, CSA has a team of experienced professionals who are available to provide expert advice and support.
7. Do you provide test certifications/certification of conformity with your products?
Yes, we do
8. Does lifting equipment need to be certified?
Yes, Lifting equipment does need to be certified to be used. This certification is important because it ensures that the equipment is safe to use.
9. Does all lifting equipment need to be tested?
No, not all lifting equipment needs to be tested. However, it is important to test any equipment that will be used in lifting operations. This testing helps ensure that the equipment is safe to use and can handle the load it will be lifting. Testing also helps identify any potential equipment issues so that they can be addressed before use.
