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

What is the difference between a hoist and a winch?

Winches - cranes adapted for the vertical lifting and moving of loads using a chain or cable with the use of a gripping element (usually a hook). From a structural point of view, winches are usually adapted for travel on a runway, which functions in a stationary version, ensuring immobile and stable machine operation in a specific location without the possibility of movement. The lifting mechanism assembly is located on a separate load-bearing structure established by a movable, sliding, or fixed frame.

Hoists - these cranes have the same structural features as winches except for the location of the lifting mechanism assembly. In the case of hoists, the lifting mechanism assembly, constituting its load-bearing structure, is the equipment housing and not a separate load-bearing structure.

However, to operate these types of cranes, you must have the appropriate qualifications. Our professional training center conducts courses for hoists and winches, after which it is possible to take the state examination and, consequently, obtain the necessary qualifications for working with these machines.

Maintenance Inspections

All devices belonging to the hoists and winches of general and special purpose group should undergo proper maintenance control. Otherwise, the device may not be fit for use for an extended period, as unexpected failures or malfunctions often occur during operation. Inspections of this type 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 cranes) who will gladly introduce course participants to the issues of preventive tasks related to maintaining the proper and safe condition of hoists or winches. Additionally, it is worth noting that we train in accordance with UDT requirements. We guarantee fast and effective inspection practice while maintaining all quality standards.

Conductor's Responsibilities - Service, Modernization  

Our training company provides professional and modern services in preparing for the responsibilities of crane maintenance. We have a modern machine park and the necessary tools, thanks to which the participant is able to quickly carry out mechanical repairs. Moreover, introduction to work practice is based on occupational health and safety principles, so by choosing our training, you prioritize workplace safety.

The duties of a maintenance worker include, among others:

• keeping construction equipment in working condition;
• maintaining the technical condition of equipment;
• removing cyclical technical faults and breakdowns;
• conducting periodic technical inspections of equipment;
• carrying out repair diagnostics of machines before they are put into proper use;
• replacing gases, lubricants, oils, and other operating elements;
• 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 the UDT. Therefore, periodic inspections, ad hoc checks, and operational and post-accident or post-failure inspections should be carried out. Regardless of the type of inspection, it must be carried out under suitable conditions and by qualified persons. 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.

Program of Activities

Our activities comprehensively prepare participants for work as hoist and winch operators or maintenance workers of general or special purpose hoists and winches. The knowledge provided in our courses is divided into a theoretical part and practical classes.

The course covers the following information: 

• occupational health and safety principles and first aid when working 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 crane failures;
• duties when working as a hoist and winch operator and maintenance worker;
• technical supervision of hoists and winches of general and special purpose;
• construction and division of hoists and winches (including safety devices, drives, reloading equipment).

Participant Requirements

To enroll in our training, participants must meet the following basic criteria:

• be at least 18 years old;
• have completed primary school;
• have good health and a document confirming no contraindications to work with hoists and winches of general and special purpose.

UDT Certificates

After completing the training, participants take the state examination conducted by the UDT commission within an established time frame. Individuals who pass the exam with a positive result receive certificates confirming their acquired qualifications. These qualifications are valid along with an identity document and entitle the holder to operate or maintain 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 cranes that: 

• have manual drive for all mechanisms;
• have single-phase electric drive with a capacity of up to 1000 kg;
• have a load capacity of up to 250 kg when not used for transporting people.

Legal Basis of Training 

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

What We Offer? 

• full online access to materials developed in detail 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 the training is determined individually for each participant depending on the choice of training format (external or internal). The course price includes, among others:

• the methodology of classes (theoretical and practical training);
• an original training script containing graphics illustrating devices;
• access to an online training platform, where participants will find a collection of sample UDT exam questions along with our developed answers;
• the cost of the state examination.

Training Goal

The aim of our course is to provide candidates with both theoretical and practical preparation to acquire qualifications in the operation and maintenance of hoists and winches of general and special purpose. The course offered by our center 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 for the optimal use of technical equipment.

We cordially invite you to contact us! 

Questions and Answers