Systematic work on maintaining and modernising cranes and lifting equipment is underway at Zaporizhstal. The reliable operation of this equipment is an important part of ensuring uninterrupted production processes, employee safety, and comfortable working conditions.
The enterprise operates 230 lifting mechanisms and 447 cranes. All equipment undergoes regular maintenance, repairs, and modernisation, including the implementation of modern solutions in the areas of labour protection and industrial safety.
"Today, the enterprise is carrying out comprehensive work to maintain crane facilities in proper working condition, from regular technical audits and timely detection of malfunctions to personnel training and the implementation of modern safety standards. Such an approach allows us to ensure smooth production operations and create safer working conditions for our employees," said Kyrylo Havryliuk, Director for Health and Industrial Safety of Zaporizhstal.
In 2025, the enterprise carried out a number of major overhauls of crane equipment, with a total value of more than UAH 13.6 million.
In particular, an ore gantry loader was overhauled in the blast furnace shop. As part of the project, specialists upgraded the crane and trolley travel mechanisms, the gripper lifting and closing mechanisms, replaced trolley rails, and repaired the steel structures, electrical equipment, and safety devices.
The slabbing section of the hot rolling shop also underwent major overhauls of two dogging cranes. The work included repairs to the main steel structures, main hoisting mechanisms, control systems, electric motors and electrical equipment.
Besides, the enterprise has allocated approximately UAH 170 million to maintain the proper technical condition of crane equipment and carry out routine repairs.
In 2026, Zaporizhstal continues its systematic upgrade of crane facilities. Since the beginning of the year, 14 new industrial air conditioners have been installed on bridge and crane installations in the hot rolling shop, cold rolling shop, blast furnace shop, and open-hearth furnace shop.
In addition, the enterprise also purchased and installed modern anti-vibration seats, which reduce vibrations and prevent occupational diseases, to improve the working conditions of crane operators.
In total, almost UAH 90 million has been allocated for the maintenance and repair of crane facilities in 2026.
Among the biggest projects of the year is a major overhaul of one of the dogging cranes in the hot rolling shop with total investments of more than UAH 7 million. The project provides for a comprehensive upgrade of mechanical and electrical equipment, the modernisation of control systems, replacement of cables and conductors, and the execution of a full set of commissioning works.
All lifting cranes in all subdivision of the enterprise are equipped with sound alarms to warn employees of crane movement. In the hot rolling shop, four cranes have additionally been equipped with a visual illumination system for loading and unloading areas. In the railway department, two cranes are fitted with an automated signalling system that blocks the start of mechanisms without a warning signal.
A combination of sound and visual signals helps employees navigate crane operating areas more effectively, significantly reducing operational risks during loading and unloading operations.