Common Spider Lift Defects Found During Routine Inspections

Key Takeaways:

Just like any other machine, spider lifts experience wear and tear over time. Routine inspections can help operators identify defects before they turn into a serious safety hazard. During inspections, operators must check the machine’s:

• Hydraulics 
• Outriggers
• Controls 
• Other critical structural elements

Checking critical components regularly ensures they remain in good working condition, thereby extending the equipment’s lifespan while ensuring safe and reliable performance.

The entire point of a spider lift is to provide safe access. If its safety is compromised, the machine becomes practically useless. It is no wonder then that experienced operators and manufacturers strongly emphasize conducting pre-use checks.

No matter your project type – construction, arboriculture, facility maintenance or anything in between – you should practice routine inspections too. Most mechanical and structural issues have the tendency to begin as minor defects, snowballing into major ones if left unchecked.

Instead of risking life and limb, check your spider lift to detect worn components, leaks, loose parts or damaged hardware. If any of them are found, repair them immediately before they turn into very costly replacements.

That said, cost-saving is not the only reason to conduct routine checks. They can also help you enhance operator and jobsite safety while reducing unexpected downtime and supporting equipment longevity. In today’s blog, Platform Basket Canada – the top manufacturer of spider lifts in Ontario, will give you a detailed breakdown of common defects, how to spot them, fix them, and prevent them. 

Components Most Likely to Develop Defects

An average spider lift model is made up of multiple external parts and internal components – most of which should be examined on a regular basis. Particularly its mechanical, hydraulic, electrical, and structural systems. Each of these is likely to develop defects with regular use. Here is a list of specific components that may wear quickly:

Tracks and undercarriage

The tracked undercarriage of a spider lift is what keeps it moving on uneven terrain. It is bound to accumulate gravel, mud, and all other kinds of debris. Excess exposure and build-up of abrasive substances can damage rollers, cause excess wear, and loosen track tension.

Outriggers and stabilizers

Responsible for keeping the machine stable in its elevated state, damage to outriggers and stabilizers can manifest itself in bent components, hydraulic issues, ruined footpads, or improper deployment mechanisms.

Hydraulic hoses and cylinders

The job of the hydraulic system is to power the lift’s movements. That said, this entire unit is made of components such as hoses, fittings, cylinders, and seals, which may show signs of leaks, cracks, abrasions or pressure loss.

Platform controls and emergency systems

Control panels, joysticks, switches, emergency stop buttons, and emergency lowering systems – if each of these fails to respond as expected during function testing, it could be indicative of a mechanical or electrical problem.

Structural frame and welds

The boom structure, chassis, and welded joints of a machine can be visually inspected for cracks, corrosion, deformation, and impact damage. Daily use is generally responsible for such defects.

Electrical and battery systems

Electrical wiring, battery terminals, connectors, charging systems and protective covers may suffer from corrosion due to exposure to nature’s elements. Moisture intrusion is likely, and so is damaged insulation or loose connections. 

Common Spider Lift Defects Found During Routine Inspections

Smooth and safe spider lift operation depends on the proper functioning of each of its components. However, if any of the following damages are found, both the safety and performance of the machine are instantly compromised. So if you notice any of these, cease operations immediately.

Hydraulic fluid leaks

Hydraulic leaks are typically found around hose fittings, cylinders or seals. While they might feel like a minor inconvenience at first, pressure loss can add up over time, consequently affecting boom performance and creating fall hazards. Visible wetness and pooled fluid are obvious signs of this.

Worn or damaged tracks

As mentioned before, constant contact with rough terrain can cause the machine’s tracks to crack or wear easily. Other issues such as missing tread sections and improper tension are likely to crop up too. Damaged tracks can adversely impact the machine’s traction and ability to stay stable on uneven ground.

Faulty outrigger deployment

If outriggers fail to extend, lock, or stabilize, the machine’s hydraulic system is to blame. Hydraulic leaks can affect boom performance too. However, bent components, damaged footpads, or poorly functioning sensors are also equally culpable.

Control panel malfunctions

A single platform features both ground and boom controls, and each of them is likely to malfunction if they appear to be stuck, unresponsive, or damaged. Intermittent electrical faults may also make it difficult to handle the machine’s control panel.

Emergency stop or lowering system failures

Emergency systems are a necessary protective measure that safeguard the machine and its operator during malfunctions. If these fail to respond during a pre-use inspection, the concerned platform should be decommissioned immediately.

Cracked welds or structural damage

Cracks or deformation in the welds, boom, or chassis of a machine are likely to worsen over time if left unrepaired. Deeper deformations may compromise the spider lift’s designated load capacity.

Loose fasteners and mounting hardware

Most platforms tend to vibrate during operation. This continuous vibration can loosen the nuts, bolts, pins and mounting hardware that are responsible for holding the machine together. These should be immediately tightened to prevent accidents, falls, and future structural failure.

Damaged wiring and electrical connections

The electrical systems of a spider lift are responsible for the normal functioning of its controls, sensors, alarms and safety devices. Issues such as damaged insulation, corroded connectors, loose terminals, and exposed wiring can make the machine behave erratically, eventually leading to complete system failure.

Corrosion and environmental deterioration

Challenging outdoor environments make up the average operating conditions for a spider lift. They are commonly exposed to moisture, road salt, chemicals, and debris, which can accelerate structural wear and tear, leading to rust, corrosion, chipped paint and weakened structural components. 

What Causes These Defects?

Most of the causes behind spider lift defects are fairly ordinary, arising from their normal working conditions. That said, a deep understanding of the causes can help you prevent future damage.

Normal wear and tear

Gradual wear and tear caused by the machine’s movement is normal. Thousands of operating hours can add up and lead to the aging of various components such as tracks, hydraulic seals, and electrical parts.

Operating on unsuitable terrain

Even though tracked spider lifts have been designed to navigate tough environments, consistent operation on rocky, unstable or debris-filled terrain can accelerate the wear and tear of their tracks, outriggers and other structural components, thus necessitating pre-use checks.

Overloading the platform

Exceeding the platform’s rated load capacity puts unnecessary strain on its boom, hydraulic cylinders, stabilization systems, and rotating components, leading to structural fatigue.

Lack of preventive maintenance

Preventive maintenance is what keeps ordinary repairs from turning into expensive replacements and structural failure. Skipping it often results in minor issues, such as delayed lubrication, thus transforming into major defects.

Environmental exposure and weather conditions

Rain, snow, excessive heat, freezing temperatures, dust, strong winds – the effects of environmental exposure are harsh, often resulting in component deterioration and poor hydraulic performance. 

How to Respond When a Defect Is Identified

There is no need to panic if you notice signs of damage on your spider lift platform. Instead, you should follow the appropriate protocol to address the issue concerned for the sake of everybody’s safety on-site.

• Stop operating the equipment immediately: Goes without saying, but the first thing you should do is lower the machine’s boom and enforce an emergency shutdown to prevent accidents 
• Tag the lift out of service: Faulty machines should be immediately decommissioned and kept locked or tagged to prevent unauthorized access 
• Report defects to supervisors: Defects found during inspection or use should be immediately reported to maintenance teams or supervisors so that the severity of the damage can be ascertained 
• Arrange inspection and repairs: Only qualified service technicians should be allowed to inspect and conduct repairs on the machine 
  Verify repairs before returning to service: Once the lift has been repaired, it should be tested head to toe and only returned to service if it passes all performance checks

One of the safest ways to prevent future defects is to diligently follow established operating guidelines. They reduce the chances of further damage. 

Preventing Common Spider Lift Defects

Protecting your machine against potential defects is possible with the help of strategic preventive maintenance practices such as:

• Perform routine inspections consistently: Daily pre-use inspections support the quick resolution of major and minor issues 
• Follow manufacturer operating limits: Do not exceed the machine’s approved load capacity, terrain limitations, and environmental conditions 
• Maintain proper cleaning and lubrication: Remove dirt, debris, and contaminants regularly while ardently sticking to lubrication schedules 
• Train operators to recognize warning signs: Operators can serve as the first line of defense, promptly identifying defects to prevent machine failure 

Defects That Require Immediate Removal from Service

Certain types of defects are completely unacceptable and demand that the machine be removed from service immediately. These include:

• Structural damage: Deep cracks, bent booms, damage welds are all reasons to discontinue spider lift use
• Hydraulic system failures: Major hydraulic leaks, cylinder failures, and pressure loss are serious issues that should be fixed before the machine can be used 
• Emergency safety system faults: If emergency stop systems fail to function, the platform should not be used 
• Excessive track or outrigger damage: Significant damage can compromise the lift’s stability and mobility, rendering it useless until repaired

It is also best to avoid fully elevating your spider lift. But if you do, make sure you follow full-height safety practices to prevent mishaps. 

Conclusion: Routine Inspections Are the First Line of Defense

Routine inspections are not chores that can be skipped. They are essential practices for maintaining the spider lift’s long-term productivity, safety and performance. Investing in high-quality machines that offer excellent stability is just as essential. Platform Basket Canada provides advanced Italian-engineered lifts in Ontario that offer unparalleled performance and stability. Contact us to book a demo.

FAQs

What should be checked during a spider lift inspection?

Key components of a spider lift, such as its tracks, outriggers, hydraulic systems, structural components, control panel, emergency systems, electrical connections, warning decals, and the machine’s overall condition, should be checked during routine inspections.

What are the most common spider lift defects?

Worn tracks, hydraulic leaks, damaged outriggers, faulty controls, loose hardware, structural cracks, electrical faults, corrosion, and damaged decals are the most common spider lift defects.

Can a spider lift be used if minor defects are found?

Ideally, it should not be used until the defect has been appropriately repaired – especially if the defect concerned affects the machine’s safety and performance.

How often should spider lifts be inspected?

A spider lift should be inspected before use in every single shift. Periodic and annual inspections can be more detailed and should be conducted in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Who is responsible for identifying spider lift defects?

Operators using the machine are primarily responsible for routine checks, while qualified maintenance personnel should take charge of comprehensive inspections and scheduled servicing.