Cargo gear test

A cargo gear test is the proof-load testing and thorough examination of a ship’s lifting appliances, cranes, derricks, and their loose gear, by a competent person to certify the safe working load (SWL) before the gear lifts cargo. The regime follows ILO Convention 152 (Occupational Safety and Health in Dock Work): an initial proof-load test before first use and after substantial alteration, a five-yearly retest, and annual thorough examinations in between. The test load exceeds the SWL on a graduated scale, and results are entered in the Register of Lifting Appliances and Loose Gear (the cargo gear register) with the model certificates. Without valid certificates, port authorities can detain the gear from service.