Understanding AS4991 – Lifting Devices

AS 4991 is an Australian Standard titled “Lifting Devices,” which provides comprehensive guidelines for the design, manufacture, testing, and safe use of lifting devices. These standards ensure that lifting devices are reliable, safe, and fit for their intended purpose.

Scope
The standard covers a wide range of lifting devices, including:

Lifting beams and spreaders
Lifting frames and cages
Grabs and tongs
Vacuum lifters
Magnets
Lifting lugs and other custom lifting equipment

Key Sections
General Requirements:

Specifies the general requirements for the design, manufacture, and testing of lifting devices.
Emphasizes the importance of adhering to the manufacturer’s instructions and the specific requirements of the lifting device

Design Criteria:

Outlines the design principles to ensure lifting devices are structurally sound and capable of handling specified loads.
Includes considerations for factors such as load distribution, center of gravity, and the dynamic effects of lifting

Materials:

Provides guidelines on the selection of materials suitable for lifting devices, ensuring they have the necessary strength, durability, and resistance to wear and environmental conditions.
Specifies the use of materials that meet recognized standards and are appropriate for the intended application

Manufacture:

Details the manufacturing processes to ensure lifting devices are made to the required standards of quality and safety.
Includes provisions for quality control, welding procedures, and the inspection of finished products

Testing:

Specifies the testing requirements for lifting devices, including proof load testing, non-destructive testing, and periodic testing to ensure ongoing safety and reliability.
Outlines the procedures for conducting these tests and the acceptable criteria for passing them

Marking and Documentation:

Requires that lifting devices be clearly marked with essential information such as the manufacturer’s name, serial number, load capacity, and any other relevant details.
Stipulates that comprehensive documentation, including design calculations, test certificates, and user instructions, must be provided with the lifting device

Inspection and Maintenance:

Provides guidelines for the regular inspection and maintenance of lifting devices to ensure they remain safe and functional.
Includes checklists for routine inspections and recommendations for addressing any defects or wear identified during these inspections

Safe Use:

Emphasizes the importance of using lifting devices in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and the specific requirements of the lifting operation
Provides guidelines for the safe operation of lifting devices, including considerations for load stability, lifting angles, and environmental conditions

Safety:
Ensures that lifting devices are designed, manufactured, and tested to prevent accidents and injuries during lifting operations

Reliability:

Provides a consistent framework for the design and use of lifting devices, leading to reliable and predictable performance

Compliance:

Helps manufacturers and users comply with legal and regulatory requirements in Australia

Quality Assurance:

Promotes the use of high-quality materials and manufacturing processes to produce durable and dependable lifting devices

By adhering to the guidelines and principles outlined in AS 4991, organizations can ensure that their lifting devices are safe, reliable, and fit for purpose, minimizing the risk of accidents and enhancing the efficiency of lifting operations. LiftQuip can offer a complete turnkey solution for the supply of items covered under AS4991, from concept and design, through fabrication, testing and supply

Contact the team for further information on 08 7089 8335 or at sales@liftquipaustralia.com.au