Cargo gear post-test inspection

A thorough visual examination of the cargo gear and all component parts is required immediately after satisfactory completion of the unit proof load tests. This visual check may be supplemented, as needed, by other methods such as a hammer test or electronic, ultrasonic, or other nondestructive methods to find parts that were damaged, deformed, or otherwise made unsafe for further use (Requirement in 1919.30(a)).

Yes. Nondestructive testing methods may be used to supplement the visual inspection to determine damage or deformation. The regulation explicitly allows supplementing the visual exam with methods such as a hammer test or with electronic, ultrasonic, or other nondestructive techniques when necessary (Requirement in 1919.30(a)).

Accessory gear must be dismantled or disassembled for examination after the first-time unit proof test on a vessel. However, the sheaves and pins of blocks included in the test do not need to be removed unless there is evidence of deformation or failure (Requirement in 1919.30(b)).

For subsequent tests, only those parts of the gear that need to be dismantled or disassembled to determine their suitability for continued service must be taken apart. In other words, dismantle what is necessary to inspect suspect components after later tests (Requirement in 1919.30(c)).

When blocks are disassembled, all shell bolt nuts must be securely locked upon reassembly. This ensures the block hardware is reinstalled safely and will remain secure in service (Requirement in 1919.30(d)).

A swivel must be replaced if inspection finds it has excessive tolerance (excessive wear or play) on any bearing surface. Any swivel with excessive tolerance as a result of wear cannot be continued in service and must be replaced (Requirement in 1919.30(e)(1)).

If a block pin is shouldered, notched, or grooved from wear, the pin must be replaced, and the sheave bushings must be examined to determine if they are still suitable for continued use. Replacement of the pin triggers examination (and possible replacement) of the bushings (Requirement in 1919.30(e)(2)).

The inspections required by 1919.30 take place after satisfactory completion of the unit proof load tests required by 1919.27 and 1919.28. In other words, perform the proof test first, then carry out the visual and supplemental inspections (Requirement in 1919.30(a) and see the related unit test requirements in 1919.27 and 1919.28).

No. For the first test on a vessel, sheaves and pins of blocks included in the test do not have to be removed unless there is evidence of deformation or failure. They only need removal if inspection indicates a problem (Requirement in 1919.30(b)).

Practical examples include hammer tests and nondestructive methods such as electronic or ultrasonic testing, which the regulation lists as acceptable supplements to the visual examination to detect damage, deformation, or unsafe conditions (Requirement in 1919.30(a)).

The determination of which parts to dismantle for subsequent tests is made based on whether dismantling is necessary to determine the parts' suitability for continued service; that is, dismantle those parts where inspection cannot otherwise confirm they are fit for use (Requirement in 1919.30(c)).

The requirement to securely lock all shell bolt nuts after reassembling blocks is to ensure the structural integrity and safe operation of the block assembly following disassembly, preventing loosening that could lead to failure in service (Requirement in 1919.30(d)).

The standard specifically requires replacement of swivels that have excessive tolerance from bearing-surface wear and replacement of block pins that are shouldered, notched, or grooved from wear; when pins are replaced the sheave bushings must also be examined for continued suitability (Requirement in 1919.30(e), 1919.30(e)(1), 1919.30(e)(2)).

If a pin is replaced because of wear, the sheave bushings must be examined to determine whether they are suitable for continued use and replaced if they are not. The regulation requires examining bushings when pins are found worn and replaced (Requirement in 1919.30(e)(2)).