Section 7 Testing

7.1.1 The test criteria specified in this Section are applicable to all installations where the control system has an acceptable method of measuring the actual load on each individual hoist and where over-hoist and overload cut-outs and levelling devices are fitted in accordance with Ch 10 Electrotechnical Systems.

7.1.2 The test criteria will be specially considered where an inherent feature of the design requires a departure from the safety control requirements.

7.1.3 In all cases, a detailed test procedure based upon the requirements of this Section is to be submitted for approval.

7.1.4 Loose gear, ropes and chains are to be tested in accordance with the requirements of Ch 12 Testing, Marking and Surveys.

7.2.1  Hoists:

1. Light running tests on each hoist unit are to be carried out at the manufacturer’s works.

2. For installations with a large number of identical hoists, consideration may be given to selective proof load testing, at the factory, provided that all hoists are fully load tested during the completed installation test. Proof loads are given in Table 5.7.1 Proof loads for hoists and cradles.

3. For factory testing of the hoist units, the SWL detailed in Table 5.7.1 Proof loads for hoists and cradles is to be taken as the single line tension to the winch.

7.2.2  Transfer systems:

1. All end and side transfer cradles are to be proof load tested in accordance with Table 5.7.1 Proof loads for hoists and cradles, based upon the rated capacity of the cradles.

2. Transfer systems that incorporate a series of trestles and bogies are also to be individually tested in accordance with Table 5.7.1 Proof loads for hoists and cradles, based upon the rated capacity of the trestles and bogies.

3. For installations with a large number of cradles, consideration may be given to selective proof load testing of the cradles.

7.2.3  Hydraulic cylinders:

1. Cylinders used in hoist platforms or in transfer system cradles and bogies are to be pressure tested at the factory to 1,5 x design pressure.

2. Cylinders fitted to transfer cradles and bogies are to be proof load tested as part of the load test on the cradle or bogie.

7.2.4  Platforms:

1. The platform is to be load tested following installation on site:

   1. in an unloaded or partially loaded condition; and

   2. with 100 per cent of the MDL.

2. The unloaded, or partially loaded, test is to be carried out to demonstrate the efficient operation of the platform systems.

3. The 100 per cent MDL load test may be carried out in stages by testing opposite pairs or sets of hoists if the size of the installation makes testing the entire platform in one operation unreasonable.

4. Where the 100 per cent MDL test is carried out in stages, it is to be ensured that each hoist unit is subjected to its rated capacity. This is of particular importance for platforms of rigid design.

7.3.1 In addition to the load tests required in Ch 5, 7.2 Load tests, a complete operational test of the whole system is to be carried out with a vessel having a displacement approximately equal to the NLC of the installation. This test is to be performed over a complete operating cycle, that is, hoisting, docking, transfer ashore, transfer whilst ashore on transfer carriages (if appropriate), transfer back onto the platform and lowering.

7.3.2 Where, for practical considerations, it is not possible to test to the full nominal capacity, this test may be carried out with a reduced test load but not less than 60 per cent of the nominal lifting capacity.

7.3.3 Where only a limited operational test is carried out, the certification will be initially endorsed reflecting the limitation on testing and transfer operations that will be restricted to the tested displacement under Ch 5, 7.3 Operational tests 7.3.2 until such time as a ship of suitable displacement is available to test the installation to the full nominal lifting capacity. This operational test at 100 per cent of the nominal lifting capacity is generally to be carried out within one year of the completion of the test.

7.3.4 This re-test is to be witnessed by the Surveyor.