A Brief Guide To Proof Load Testing

Utilised to help recognise the maximum load capacity of a piece of equipment or machinery, proof load testing is vital in providing a safe, efficient method when operating lifting equipment. In this article, we aim to provide an important insight into how proof load testing works and why it’s so significant.

What Is Proof Load Testing?

Typically involving the application of a load to a structure, material or piece of equipment, load testing is used to determine the strength of the piece of equipment and whether it's safe to carry the expected load weight. This is carried out by a Proof Load Test, which is generally expressed as a percentage of the working load limit (WLL) or safe working load (SWL) that the equipment is designed to withstand.

Proof Load Testing Of Equipment

A vital requirement in ensuring that the lifting equipment in use is able to perform to British or European standards, Proof Load Testing is essential in determining whether your equipment is in accordance with the safe working load, (SWL), or working load limit, (WLL), calculated by the original equipment manufacturer, (OEM). The exact requirements of a Proof Load Test will be determined by the OEM, as it will vary depending on the standards, equipment and individual practices of the customer or manufacturer in question.

When Is Proof Load Testing Needed?

There are specific moments in which you must test your lifting equipment, and these must be followed in accordance with LOLER 1998 and all relevant British and European Standards. Below are some of the key reasons why proof load testing may be needed:

● Once the equipment has been manufactured, installed, repaired, modified or refurbished.

● After an incident.

● Periodic testing may be specified in British or European Standards (i.e BS7121 for Lorry Loader and Mobile Cranes).

● A competent person may also require a Proof Load Test during a thorough examination process to determine if a piece of lifting equipment is safe for use.

What Equipment Requires Proof Load Testing?

Any lifting equipment designed and manufactured in line with British, European, International or OEM standards will require Proof Load Testing to ensure their safety. Below is a brief list of some of the lifting equipment that requires a Proof Load Test, but please be aware, there are several more besides.

● Mobile Crane Proof Load Testing

● Jib Cranes Proof Load Testing

● Lifting Equipment Proof Load Testing

● Winch Proof Load Testing

● Forklift Truck Proof Load Testing

● Excavators Proof Load Testing

● Chain Block Proof Load testing

All lifting equipment will require testing to verify and certify that it meets the Working Load Limit (WLL) and Safe Working Load (SWL) requirements at all times.

Crane and Lifting Services uses our industry-leading crane engineers along with high-quality load testing lifting equipment to provide load testing, stress testing and performance testing to your equipment. We can do this for businesses all across the UK so contact us today to get your load testing done today.