Why Regular Inspection Of A Rail Boom Lift Is A Must
Rail boom lifts, as their name so aptly suggests, are indispensable in the field of rail maintenance and overhead work. Especially if you depend on our reliable range of models. They are capable of working on both tracks and adjoining roads, which makes them a piece of valuable equipment for contractors, infrastructure maintenance teams and transit authorities.
However, like any other heavy-duty machine, rail boom lifts require careful maintenance so their peak performance can be maintained over their long lifetime. This means thoroughly inspecting them from time to time to check any issues before they become an unavoidable problem.
That’s why we’re here to discuss the importance of regular checks today so you can ensure both worker safety and the optimum performance of your fleet.
Why Inspections Are Crucial
As someone in the industry, you're already aware of the high-risk environments in which rail boom lifts operate. Working near live tracks, overhead cables and moving trains can pose a safety hazard. Moreover, in the instance of mechanical failures, the danger increases while being combined with other negative occurrences such as possible delays and increased costs. However, with regular inspections, one can:
- Promptly identify wear and tear before it results in a serious issue
- Prolong the lifespan of the machine, ensuring you get the most of your investment
- Prevent downtime during time-sensitive tasks
- Ensure compliance with local regulations as well as broader safety standards that protect everybody involved
Avoiding scheduled inspections not only leads to costly breakdowns but can even put operators at risk.
What To Inspect In A Rail Boom Lift?
Every single electric boom lift deserves frequent inspection that goes beyond the basics. For example, when our certified technicians are called for help, they perform a meticulous check that involves the following:
- Hydraulic Systems: Pressure inconsistency and leaks are checked. We also review hose integrity.
- Boom Structure: From articulation points to welds, pins and overall stability - we check everything.
- Rail Gear Assemblies: Rail wheels, guidance systems and brakes should be inspected if they fail to function properly.
- Electrical Components: Examining battery conditions, wiring, sensors and controls can give a good idea of where the problem lies, if any.
- Safety Systems: Emergency shut-offs, interlocks, outriggers and alarms - a problem with any of these can pose serious safety risks.
- Tires & Tracks: Checking wear and tear, tracking suitability and pressure levels before operation can prevent accidents.
How Often Should Rail Boom Lifts Be Inspected?
The frequency of inspection will vary on an individual basis though it is important to anchor them on the operating conditions of the machine and how often it is used. Here are some general rules that can help in this regard:
- Inspect Pre-Use: This could be daily or weekly. Operators should perform visual inspections and function tests to ensure everything is up to speed before beginning work.
- Monthly Inspections: These are mandatory and should be more thorough than the surface-level daily or pre-use inspections.
- Annual Preventative Maintenance: This should be conducted as a head-to-toe inspection combined with replacements if needed.
If the environment in which the electric boom lift is used is more demanding like a transit system or if it runs 24x7, the frequency of the checks should be increased. Faster wear is likely under a heavy workload.
What Are The Consequences Of Skipping Inspections?
Skipping inspections is like undertaking a major risk. It’s a coin toss. You don’t want to lose even if the odds are 50%. Here’s what happens if the rail boom lift is not inspected regularly:
- Unexpected equipment failure that leads to delays
- Increased repair costs due to the accumulation of several issues
- Injuries and accidents due to malfunctioning parts
- Violation of safety regulations can cause legal issues
It’s not just a money-saving hack. Regular inspections can actually save lives and a world of trouble.
Conclusion
If you want your rail boom lift to perform without a hitch each time, regular inspections are a must. As is investing in quality electric boom lifts that have been engineered with safety and durability in mind. Just like Platform Basket Canada’s lifts are. Our entire range of rail boom lifts feature extra safety mechanisms and robustness. Contact us to get our lifts. We also offer additional services such as after-sales training, remote diagnostics and parts replacements.
