Ignoring inspection regulations not only poses a risk to workplace safety but can also lead to severe legal sanctions, asset losses, and damage to a company’s reputation. Throughout 2024, Indonesia recorded a significant surge in workplace accidents, reaching a total of 160,000 cases, according to data from the Ministry of Manpower (Kemnaker). This sharp increase compared to previous years highlights serious gaps in occupational safety management.
In Indonesia, several regulations govern the testing and inspection of work equipment. One of them is Minister of Manpower Regulation No. 8 of 2020, which regulates Occupational Safety and Health for Lifting and Transporting Equipment. Article 173 of this regulation mandates inspection and testing during lifting operations. It also outlines several key points related to inspections, including:
- Criteria for inspectors authorized to perform inspections
- Mandatory inspection and testing intervals
- Procedures and references for conducting inspections
- Inspection results and reporting requirements
Work equipment plays a vital role in supporting job performance, and some tools even serve as part of workers’ safety systems. But is everyone aware of this? In reality, no. Many workplace accidents still occur due to neglected equipment — this is where INSPECTION plays a crucial role in ensuring that all work equipment functions safely and optimally.
- Internal Party: Company employees who have completed training and obtained special certification to perform inspections.
- External Party: Independent inspectors or inspection bodies accredited and recognized by the government and the company.
1. Technical Competence
- Possesses in-depth knowledge of the equipment being inspected, including technical and safety standards.
- Understands inspection procedures, whether visual, functional, or using specialized tools.
2. Official Certification
- Must hold a competency certificate recognized by authorized institutions, such as the Ministry of Manpower or relevant accreditation bodies.
3. Practical Experience & Regulatory Knowledge
- Has prior experience conducting similar inspections and understands potential risks that may arise.
- Familiar with applicable occupational safety and health (OSH) regulations and international standards when required.
4. Analytical Skills
- Able to analyze inspection data to identify potential hazards and provide appropriate recommendations.
5. Integrity and Professionalism
- Performs duties objectively without external influence and ensures inspection reports accurately reflect actual conditions.
Types of Inspections
Before selecting an inspector, it is important to first understand the type of inspection to be carried out. This ensures that the chosen inspector matches the specific requirements. The following are the most common types of inspections:
01. Pre-Use Inspection
This inspection is conducted each time before the equipment is used by the user or operator (internal party). The operator performing the inspection must have received proper training and understand the equipment being used. The inspection is usually carried out using a checklist provided by the company or based on the equipment’s manual records.
Inspection Focus:
- Physical condition of the equipment, such as the shape and color of components (e.g., wire, hook, shackle) to ensure there are no abnormal signs of wear or deformation.
- Basic functionality of the equipment, ensuring it operates smoothly without excessive force or resistance.
- Detection of signs of wear, cracks, or permanent deformation.
Example: Checking a crane’s wire rope to ensure there are no broken wires before lifting a load.
02. Periodic Inspection
This inspection is conducted at specific intervals, usually every 6 or 12 months, depending on applicable standards or regulations, frequency of use, and the equipment’s risk level. It is carried out by a competent and independent party, such as an external or third-party inspector. In some cases, additional testing (e.g., NDT) may be required, involving specialized tools and expertise.
Purpose of Inspection:
- To detect defects or potential issues that require repair or replacement before they become serious.
- To ensure the equipment continues to operate safely and efficiently according to safety standards.
- To provide recommendations for preventive or corrective actions based on inspection findings.
Inspection Focus:
- Visual inspection of all equipment components, including mechanical, electrical, and structural systems.
- Verification of documentation, such as product certificates, maintenance history, and previous inspection reports.
- Functional testing to ensure the equipment operates safely and properly according to safety standards.
- Performance testing to verify the equipment functions according to the manufacturer’s stated capacity.
Example: A periodic crane inspection includes checking documentation, visual inspection of components such as wires and hooks, conducting function tests, and performance tests to ensure the crane operates safely and efficiently within its rated capacity.
After understanding the regulations, types of inspections, and knowing who should perform them, you don’t need to worry, SpanSet Friends! When your equipment uses SpanSet products, we’re ready to help inspect them. Through our inspection services, you’ll receive a detailed report outlining the equipment’s condition, identified issues, and recommended corrective actions if needed. This report serves as valuable documentation for long-term monitoring and performance evaluation.
Please note that some products can only be inspected and installed by the manufacturer, such as safety lines. SpanSet also offers free inspection services for the first six months. Don’t hesitate to contact us for more information about inspections, or explore our other inspection-related articles to expand your knowledge.