Improper storage can accelerate the deterioration of lifting equipment. Hoists stored in the outdoors during the winter, slings left in heaps on the floor, and chains stored in a bin without a clean can all lead to hidden defects, which can become evident during use. Storage is a fairly simple concept, however, it is one that gets over looked and the importance of it is only realized when something fails inspection.
Chains and Chain Slings
Storing chains without grit and without debris helps prevent the acceleration of damage and helps to minimize the severity of potential cracks. Storing chains with a thin coating of oil helps to prevent rust. Chains slings should be stored on specific hooks or racks. Chaining slings on hooks helps prevent strain from being induces on the chains.
Separating chains and other lifting equipment from corrosive materials helps prolong the integrity of the metal. Steel lifting equipment can be easily damaged by hydrogen embrittlement without the presence of obvious forms of damage. Lifting equipment stored near battery charging equipment is at risk of being damaged by hydrogen off-gassing.
Webbing Slings
Polyester fibers deteriorate when exposed to sunlight, meaning daily direct or indirect exposure will damage a sling. Store them in a dry location, as far away from sources of heat and chemicals as possible.
Webbing slings should not be thrown in a pile with damage and be considered salvageable at a later date. If a webbing sling has been damaged, it is condemned and must be removed from use. They should be easily recognized so there is no confusion in the field.
Webbing slings should be hung from smooth pegs or hooks. Avoid bunched or folded slings because slings that have been stored in a folded position are much more susceptible to damage and are harder to inspect.
Wire Rope
Wire rope should be stored on a reel or drum, never coiled flat. Fatigue is greatly accelerated when wire rope is coiled and stored flat. Rope reels should never be in contact with the ground. Crates or simple frames constructed of wood are sufficient for storage.
Before storaging, clean your rope and use a rope preservative. Internal wires deteriorate and corrosion begins along the outer strands. Lubricating the rope before storaging helps slow down the corrosion.
Hoists and Cranes
Clean and lightly lubricate electric hoists and chain blocks before storaging. Defects should be repaired before equipment is stored. The next person should not have to find and deal with that defect when they attempt to use the equipment.
Keep the stored equipment in a dry and covered environment. The main enemy is moisture. It corrodes chain, affects brake mechanisms, and deteriorates electrical parts in powered equipment. Protective covers should be used for equipment stored outside or in an unheated building during the winter.
The Inspection Point
Equipment coming out of storage should be inspected before it is used. Simply put, storage does not prevent deterioration. Storage can make already existing damage more difficult to find. You can’t assume that equipment is in the same condition as when it was put away. Equipment should be checked first.
