Load Proof Testing Services UK

Load proof testing is the controlled application of a specified test load to lifting equipment, structural components or anchor points to verify that the item can safely withstand its rated capacity without permanent deformation or failure.

Proof load testing may be carried out:

• In-house using a calibrated test bed
• On-site using certified test weights
• Under controlled tensile load conditions
• In line-of-pull configurations that replicate actual operational use

The purpose of proof load testing is to:

• Verify Safe Working Load (SWL)
• Confirm structural integrity
• Demonstrate compliance with statutory requirements
• Support CE / UKCA marking
• Provide documented evidence for technical files
• Validate newly manufactured or modified equipment

Where tensile-only verification is required in a laboratory environment, please refer to our Tensile Proof Load Testing page.

It’s important to understand when proof load testing should take place, including:

• After manufacture
• After modification
• After structural repair
• Before first use
• For high-risk lifting operations

Proof load testing verifies that equipment remains structurally sound, correctly rated and safe for continued operational use following these circumstances.

Our Manchester facility is equipped to carry out a wide range of proof load testing services, including:

In-House Proof Load Testing to 100 Tonnes

• 100-tonne capacity computer-controlled horizontal test bed
• Calibrated load measurement systems with traceability to national standards (NPL)
• Controlled load application and hold periods
• Digital recording and data capture
• Fully documented proof load test certification

This facility allows us to proof test lifting equipment, fabricated lifting beams, spreader beams, load attachments and structural components under controlled and repeatable conditions.

Testing can be configured so that the line of pull replicates actual use conditions, ensuring realistic verification of performance.

Live Load & Operational Testing

In addition to controlled test bed testing, we provide:

• 10-tonne live load and operational testing
• 20 tonnes of certified test weights, stillages and beams
• On-site proof load verification
• Operational function testing under load

Live load testing is commonly required for:

• Installed lifting beams
• Anchor points
• Runway beams
• Crane attachments
• Fixed lifting infrastructure

This ensures equipment performs safely under real-world operational conditions.

Portable & Digital Load Measurement 

We utilise:

• Calibrated digital tensile dynamometers with traceability to national standards (NPL)
• Read-out capacity from 1 tonne to 12.5 tonnes
• Portable verification equipment for field testing

This enables flexible proof load verification across a wide range of lifting and structural applications.

Our proof load testing services cover:

• Lifting beams and spreader beams
• Telescopic spreader beams
• Fabricated lifting attachments
• Anchor points and eyebolts
• Load attachments and structural lifting frames
• Chains, lifting assemblies and accessories
• Crane and hoist components
• Custom engineered lifting devices

Recently manufactured telescopic spreader beams have undergone proof load testing in our dedicated test bay, configured so that the applied load mirrors actual service conditions.

Load proof testing plays a critical role in demonstrating compliance with machinery and lifting regulations.

Since 1995, machinery placed on the European market has been required to meet essential safety requirements under the Machinery Directive, with equivalent requirements implemented in the UK under the Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations. In the UK, these requirements are implemented through:

• Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008
• Supply of Machinery (Safety) (Amendment) Regulations 2011

These regulations apply to:

• Machinery
• Lifting accessories
• Chains, ropes and webbing
• Safety components
• Removable transmission devices
• Partly completed machinery

Manufacturers are required to carry out conformity assessment and compile technical files demonstrating compliance with Essential Health and Safety Requirements (EHSRs).

Proof load testing provides objective, calibrated evidence that lifting equipment and structural components meet declared performance requirements.

Manufacturers must maintain technical files that typically include:

• General arrangement drawings
• Control circuit schematics
• Applicable standards and specifications
• Test results and verification data
• Declaration of Conformity or Declaration of Incorporation

We can supply:

• Formal proof load test certificates
• Crack detection reports
• Destruction test data (where required)
• Load application records
• Calibration traceability documentation

These reports are suitable for inclusion within manufacturer technical files and may support third-party audit or inspection requirements.

Where required, we can also provide:

• Crack detection testing
• Stress testing
• Controlled destruction testing

Destruction testing may be used for:

• Design validation
• Prototype verification
• Failure mode analysis
• Safety margin confirmation

All destruction testing is conducted under controlled conditions with full documentation of applied load and failure characteristics.

Our 100-tonne in-house proof load testing facility enables us to demonstrate controlled testing of:

• Client lifting equipment
• Load attachments
• Anchor points
• Fabricated structural assemblies

Testing is configured to reflect realistic load paths and operational use, providing meaningful structural verification.

Following proof load testing, you will receive:

• Proof load test certificate
• Recorded test load data
• Confirmation of applied proof load
• Crack detection report (if applicable)
• Destruction test data (if applicable)
• Calibration traceability details

All documentation is prepared for compliance records, audit requirements and manufacturer technical files.