What you need to know about Anti-Two-Block Protection

Recently an owner called to inquire if Anti-Two-Block protection was required on a Pile Driving operation.  The answer is No.  The owner told their operator to remove it since it caused computer problems and parted the chain, allowing the Two-Block weight to fall and crash into the wedge socket.  The operator did not want to continue operating without the Anti-Two-Block in place for fear of violating the Federal Code. The code states that there are exceptions to the Anti-Two-Block requirement.

The Exceptions are listed below and can be found in the following Federal OSHA New Crane Rule 1926.1416(d)(3)(ii)(C).

Anti-Two-Block Protection should not be used during the following operations:           

·        Dragline

·        Clamshell (grapple)

·         Magnet

·         Drop-Ball

·         Container Handling

·         Concrete Bucket

·         Marine operations that do not involve hoisting personnel

·         Pile driving work.

The Big 3

3 Required Crane Inspections

Each Shift

A competent person must begin a visual inspection prior to each shift, completed before or during the shift.  Dismantling or booming down is not required unless visual results indicate further investigation.  Items checked: Controls, Drives, Air & Hydraulic pressure lines, Hooks & Latches, Wire Rope, Electrical Apparatus, Tires, Ground Conditions, Rails, and Safety Devices.  Documentation is not required.  It is suggested to note the inspection in the log book as having been performed.

Monthly

A competent person must inspect the device as in the shift inspection and it cannot be used until the inspection demonstrates that no corrective action is required.  That inspection and information must be documented and maintained by the employer that conducts the inspection.  It must contain the name and signature of the person who conducted the inspection and the date.

Annual Comprehensive

A qualified person must conduct this inspection at 12 month intervals.  It must include everything in Shift & Monthly.  In addition, disassembly is required, as necessary to complete the inspection.  Attention to Structure, bolts, other fasteners, welds, pins, bearings shafts, gears, rollers and locking devices, draw works.  Full documentation is requires along with the name, date and signature of the inspector.