CUTTING CORNERS ON BOOM CERTIFICATION COSTS MORE THAN YOU THINK!

Because of the inherent risks of operating a concrete pump boom, certification is required to ensure it’s safe to use.

A boom certificate is issued after testing and inspection by an authorised inspector (such as Utranazz) and states that the concrete pump’s boom meets safety, structural, and mechanical standards.

Neglecting boom certification might seem like a way to save money, but there are multiple hidden costs you haven’t considered. This article will explore the key benefits of boom certificates and the risks of using a truck-mounted concrete pump without one.

Why is Boom Certification Required?

1. Safety of Workers and the Public

Because truck-mounted concrete pump boom involve working at elevated heights, there are multiple risks to operators and other workers. The boom operates overhead and under high pressure, so if it’s unfit for purpose, it can have disastrous consequences.

Failures, such as cracks, pin wear, or hydraulic faults, can lead to collapse. In some cases, we have heard ofbooms snapping and parts falling off!

Boom Certification verifies that the boom can safely handle its rated loads and reach, ensuring that those using and surrounding the boom are safe.

2. Legal and regulatory compliance

It isn’t always a legal requirement to get a boom certificate for a concrete placing boom, as it isn’t defined as an item of lifting equipment in the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER). Most jurisdictions classify concrete pump booms as lifting appliances or mobile plant.

Occupational safety laws, such as OSHA, HSE, WHS, and LOLER, mandate periodic inspection and certification. The laws that apply depend on the country.

3. Structural fatigue and wear

Booms often experience cyclic stress, vibration, and corrosion. Certification inspections look for:

• Hairline cracks and weld defects
• Wear and tear on the pin, bearing, and bush
• Hydraulic leaks and pressure issues
• Safety devices and emergency stops

4. Insurance and liability

Insurers typically require a current boom certificate. Without it, claims may be denied after an incident.

Certification helps demonstrate due diligence in the event of accidents.

Why Maintenance is Important Between Concrete Pump Inspections

You cannot wait for inspections to schedule maintenance for a boom pump, as you invite breakdowns and increased risk to operators.

Here is why regular maintenance is crucial between inspections:

• You can identify issues such as damage or wear and tear and arrange a repair before they escalate. This also reduces repair costs.
• It ensures the safety of concrete pump operators and surrounding workers.
• It extends the life of the concrete pump by preventing wear and tear to the boom.

How to Get Boom Certification with Utranazz

At Utranazz, we offer annual boom inspections, after which we can issue a boom certificate if the inspection is successful. We have over 50 years of experience in supplying and maintaining high-quality concrete pumps, including the premium Sermac range and our affordable t Xanjer range. We can issue a boom certificate on any make or model of pump.

Our engineers will perform the following tasks during an inspection:

• Checking structural components for faults.
• Inspecting high-stress zones of the boom.
• Inspecting check valves, hydraulic valves, and shut-off valves for wear and tear.
• Checking for cracks.
• And much more.

We recommend an annual concrete pump boom inspection; think of it like an MOT for your car.

Do you require your annual boom inspection? Get in touch with us online or call us on 01280 820 770 to discuss your requirements.