Load Testing For Chain Blocks

Load it up to, say 150%-200% the load you are going to put on it? If it survives then presumably it's ok. But what if the testing damages it? Refer to the manufacturer?

what specification do you test?

lift an object and test speed and wright.

You must test hand chain hoists (load blocks) in the US. There is an ANSI Standard that requires an annual load test of 150% of rated load capacity.

Refer to the ANSI Standard that applies to hoisting equipment.

Thanks a lot. Here they are following the British Standards, are they the same!

Not sure, but I believe so. Before proceeding, I would check with British Standards that apply to Cranes and Hoists; and a local testing authority, if possible.

Lloyd's British comes to mind.

The relevant std is BS3243. I requested a quote from the standards authority. It is too expensive. They will not pay me enough to cover the cost in next 3 yrs. The local authorities will take ages to reply!!

1. Test it! It's a safety requirement in most countries, normally annually. We also inspect ours monthly (millwright) and daily (user). Frequency depends on usage, storage, etc.
2. Use external companies/contractors to test it if you don't have in-house expertise. Your country's relevant Health & Safety Act will normally give you the "load factor" or whatever you must test it too, but for chain blocks I'd go external - if you can afford it. We schedule ours' to be tested for when we have low usage of the lifting equipment.
3. Very often suppliers/manufacturers will assist with what the law says too (often with the hope that you"ll get them to test it in future!)
   

Thanks for your support. I have seccessfully tested all chain blocs at 150% of SWL. Still if a procudure is available kindly share.

No, provided its lifting history since its last insurance proof load test is fully known, and it is still within the insurance test certificate validity period. Overloading lifting equipment under controlled conditions during test can invoke failure, and this is the purpose of insurance examinations.

Lifting equipment and pulling equipment functions must be kept separate by good supervisory practice, and the equipment's functions must not be intermixed. 'Stinky Pete' used a couple of lifting ropes for pulling a few weeks back and caused major chaos...

It depends. If you are buying it brand new from a highly reputable company they will provide you test certification. If you are buying second hand or new from China it will be advicable to test it 150% the load in presence of the supplier with a written understanding that it is refundable.