Hoists and winches of general and special purpose are close transport devices used in various tasks focused on transporting goods. Machines in the general-purpose category are used to perform transportation tasks for most goods, while those of special purpose are dedicated to the transport of specific types of cargo. The operation and maintenance of hoists and winches of general or special purpose should be carried out by a worker with the appropriate UDT qualifications. Our center specializes in organizing training courses that prepare participants to obtain qualifications.

How is a hoist different from a winch?

Winches are hoists designed for vertical lifting and moving of loads using a chain or rope with the use of a gripping element (usually a hook). Structurally, winches are typically designed for movement along a runway, which operates in a stationary version, providing a stable and fixed operation of the machine in a specific place, without the possibility of passage. The lifting mechanism assembly is located on a separate supporting structure established by a movable, sliding, or fixed runway frame.

Hoists, on the other hand, have the same structural features as winches, except for the location of the lifting mechanism assembly. In the case of hoists, the housing of the equipment serves as the supporting structure for the lifting mechanism assembly, rather than a separate supporting structure.

However, to operate both types of lifting devices, one must possess the appropriate qualifications. Our professional training center conducts courses on hoists and winches, after which it is possible to take the state exam and, consequently, obtain the necessary qualifications to work with these machines.

Maintenance Inspections

All devices belonging to the group of hoists and winches of general and special purpose should have proper maintenance control ensured. Otherwise, the device may not be suitable for use for an extended period, as unexpected breakdowns or malfunctions often occur during operation. Such inspections must be carried out by a person with the appropriate qualifications. In our facility, we have a team of experts in diagnostic control and proper maintenance of UDT machines (including hoists), who are eager to introduce trainees to the issues of preventive tasks related to maintaining the proper and safe condition of hoists or winches. Additionally, it is worth mentioning that we provide training in compliance with UDT requirements. We guarantee fast and effective inspection practice while maintaining all quality standards.

Responsibilities of a Maintainer – Service, Modernization  

Our training company provides professional and modern services in preparing for maintainer duties for hoists. We have a modern machine park and the necessary tools, thanks to which the trainee can quickly perform mechanical repairs. Furthermore, the introduction to work practices is based on health and safety principles, so by choosing our training, you prioritize safety at work.

The maintainer's tasks include, among others: 

• maintaining construction equipment in working condition;
• ensuring the technical condition of the equipment;
• eliminating cyclic defects and technical failures;
• conducting periodic technical inspections of equipment;
• performing diagnostic repairs of machines before putting them into proper use;
• replacing gas, lubricants, oils, and other consumables;
• maintaining technical documentation.

UDT Inspections

Due to the fact that hoists and winches are subject to technical supervision, they should be operated in accordance with the guidelines determined by UDT. Therefore, periodic, ad-hoc, and operational inspections, as well as post-accident or post-failure inspections, should be carried out. Regardless of the type of inspection, it must be conducted under appropriate conditions and by qualified personnel. During our courses, we introduce participants to the requirements and specifics of these technical inspections, providing them with all the necessary information and guiding them through the formalities.

Course Program

Our classes comprehensively prepare trainees for work as hoist and winch operators or maintainers, both for general and special purpose. The knowledge conveyed to participants in the courses is divided into a theoretical part and practical exercises.

The course covers the following topics: 

• Occupational health and safety principles and first aid during work with hoists and winches;
• Legal acts and general information related to hoists and winches of general and special purpose;
• Requirements necessary for the proper operation and maintenance of devices;
• Common hoist failures;
• Responsibilities during work as an operator and maintainer;
• Technical supervision of hoists and winches of general and special purpose;
• Construction and division of hoists and winches (including safety devices, drives, handling equipment).

Participant Requirements

To enroll in our courses, you must meet the basic criteria:

• Be at least 18 years old;
• Have completed primary school;
• Have good health and a certificate confirming the absence of contraindications to work with hoists and winches of general and special purpose.

UDT Certificates

After completing the training, within the period set by the facility, participants take the state exam conducted by the UDT commission. Individuals who pass the exam with a positive result receive certificates confirming their qualifications. These qualifications are valid along with an identity document and authorize the operation or maintenance of technical equipment throughout Poland. The validity period of qualification certificates depends on the type of machine's purpose and is issued from the date of document issuance for a period of:

• 5 years (hoists and winches of general and special purpose);
• 10 years (hoists and winches of general purpose).

Qualification certificates are not required for working with hoists that: 

• have manual drive mechanisms for all mechanisms;
• have a single-phase electric drive with a capacity of up to 1000 kg;
• have a capacity of up to 250 kg if they are not used for the transportation of people.

Legal Basis for Training 

• Act on Technical Inspection issued on December 21, 2000;
• Regulation of the Council of Ministers on the types of technical machines subject to technical inspection issued on December 7, 2012;
• Regulation of the Minister of Entrepreneurship and Technology on the method and procedure for controlling qualifications required for the operation and maintenance of technical machines, as well as the method and procedure for extending the validity period of certificates issued on May 21, 2019.

What We Offer? 

• Full online access to materials meticulously prepared by our lecturers;
• Familiarization with sample UDT exam questions prepared by our training staff;
• Acquisition of valuable practical skills through exercises on modern machines;
• Comprehensive preparation by a professional team of experienced experts.

Course Price

The cost of training is determined individually for each participant depending on the choice of the form of classes (external or internal training). The course price includes, among other things: 

• Methodology of classes (theoretical and practical training);
• Author's training script containing graphics illustrating equipment;
• Access to an online training platform where participants will find a collection of sample UDT exam questions along with our answers;
• Cost of the state exam.

Training Objective

The aim of our course is to provide substantive and practical preparation for candidates to obtain qualifications in the field of operation and maintenance of hoists and winches of general and special purpose. The course offered by our facility aims to provide comprehensive theoretical knowledge along with practical skills in the safe and comprehensive operation and diagnostics of these devices. Participants in the training will become familiar with the applicable legal regulations and principles of optimal use of technical equipment.

We cordially invite you to contact us! 

Questions and Answers