What Algerian regulations require for gas pressure equipment and industrial lifting machinery.
Compressed air receivers, gas tanks, overhead cranes, mobile cranes and forklifts: this equipment is at the heart of industrial activity, but it is also among the most dangerous. A ruptured pressure vessel or a falling load can have serious consequences for people and installations. That is why regulations require inspections throughout the equipment's life.
Gas pressure equipment: a specific framework
In Algeria, gas pressure equipment is covered by dedicated regulations, in particular Executive Decree No. 90-245 of 18 August 1990 regulating gas pressure equipment. This framework sets the conditions for the construction, commissioning, operation and inspection of this equipment.
It covers in particular:
- Tanks and vessels for storing compressed, liquefied or dissolved gases
- Compressed air receivers linked to compressors
- Gas cylinders and transport tanks
- Pressure equipment built into production installations
This equipment must be inspected before it is put into service, then undergo periodic examinations and tests, as well as an inspection after any significant repair or modification. The operator must keep the file for each item and a record of the inspections carried out.
Industrial lifting equipment
Lifting equipment (mobile cranes, overhead cranes, hoists, gantries, forklifts, aerial work platforms) and lifting accessories (slings, chains, hooks, spreader beams) must be checked regularly to make sure they are fit for use.
These checks generally take place:
- Before putting into service new or returned-to-service equipment
- Periodically, throughout the period of use
- After dismantling and reassembly, a modification or an incident
Pressure equipment
- Condition of the shell: corrosion, deformation, cracks
- Safety devices: valves, pressure gauges, drains
- Nameplate and test markings
- Equipment file and inspection history
Lifting equipment
- Structure, joints and runway rails
- Brakes, limit switches and load limiters
- Wire ropes, chains, hooks and safety latches
- Controls, emergency stop and load plate
The operator's responsibilities
The company using this equipment remains responsible for its compliance and safety. In particular, it must:
- Keep an up-to-date inventory of its equipment subject to inspection.
- Schedule the regulatory inspections and meet the deadlines.
- Keep the documents: equipment files, reports and inspection registers.
- Train and authorise the staff who operate and maintain the equipment.
- Close out the reported issues and take any dangerous equipment out of service.
A regulatory inspection is not just an administrative obligation: it is a chance to detect a failure before it causes an accident.
The role of the inspection body
An independent inspection body brings an outside, impartial view of the condition of the equipment. In line with the requirements of ISO/IEC 17020, the inspector examines the equipment, carries out the required tests, then records the findings in a report that sets out any non-conformities and the actions to take.
This report is proof of due diligence for the authorities, insurers and clients, and a management tool for your maintenance teams.
Conclusion
Planning regulatory inspections ahead means avoiding unplanned shutdowns, penalties and, above all, accidents. Rigorous follow-up of pressure equipment and lifting equipment protects your people, your installations and the continuity of your business.
Regulatory references are given for information only. Only the texts published in the Official Journal of the Algerian Republic are authoritative.
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