Find answers to common questions about Cookes × JWA water load testing. This page covers how water load bags work, when proof load testing is legally required in New Zealand, what documentation and certificates are issued, and the practical considerations involved in planning, measuring, and delivering a proof load test. Whether you're managing a crane fleet, planning a five-year marine survey, or assessing a civil or industrial structure, use this page to understand the method, the compliance context, and what to expect from a Cookes-delivered job.
What standards does Cookes follow?
Testing is aligned to the applicable New Zealand regulatory and standards framework, including HSWA 2015, the PECPR Regulations 1999, the WorkSafe Approved Code of Practice for Cranes, relevant AS 1418 and AS 2550 standards, and Maritime NZ rules including Part 49, Part 40D, and Part 40E where applicable. LEEA 051 is used as the reference for water load test bag design, inspection, and use. Class society requirements are applied where the asset or vessel requires them.
Are test certificates accepted by WorkSafe, Maritime NZ, or DNV?
Yes, provided the test is carried out correctly. New Zealand regulations do not require a specific load-generation method - steel weights and water bags are both accepted where the test is conducted to the correct proof load, with calibrated measurement, competent personnel, and proper documentation. For marine and classed assets, the surveyor or class representative may have additional witness or documentary requirements. Confirm these in advance - the certificate format and content need to match what the accepting authority expects before the test day, not after.
What information do I need to provide to get a quote?
The more detail you can provide up front, the faster we can confirm scope and pricing. Useful information includes: asset type and description; current SWL or WLL; location and site access constraints; why the test is required (first use, repair, survey, annual, etc.); the target test date or survey window; available headroom and water source on-site; and any existing certificates, class requirements, or engineer specifications that affect the test scope. We will confirm the proof load basis and method from there.
When is proof load testing legally required in New Zealand?
The trigger depends on the equipment type and governing framework. As a general guide: proof load testing is required before first use or commissioning of new equipment; after major repair, structural alteration, or overload event; and as part of periodic inspection or survey requirements. For marine equipment under Maritime Rules Part 49, the 5-year retest is a direct requirement. For fishing vessel lifting appliances under Part 40D, testing before service or after substantial repair is also required. For land-based cranes under PECPR and the WorkSafe Crane ACOP, a proof load test is expected at first inspection. These are the most common triggers — the exact requirement for your asset should be confirmed against the applicable rule, standard, or class requirement.
How far in advance do I need to book?
As early as possible - ideally 6 to 10 weeks ahead of the required test date for a planned job. For marine jobs tied to berth windows or class surveys, the lead time required to confirm equipment availability, book technicians, and arrange any surveyor attendance means that shorter notice carries real programme risk. For urgent requirements, speak to our team directly and we will confirm what is achievable.
Are water load bags compliant in New Zealand?
Yes. New Zealand regulations do not prescribe steel deadweights as the required test method. Compliance depends on achieving the required proof load using a controlled and measurable method, with calibrated equipment, competent personnel, and proper documentation. Water bags meet these requirements when used correctly - with a calibrated load cell, a current bag inspection certificate, a lift plan, and a complete test record.
Do you operate nationwide?
Yes. Cookes operates nationally with branches across New Zealand. On-site proof load testing is available at ports, industrial sites, construction sites, vessels, and remote locations. For large or unusual test loads that exceed local stock capacity, cross-rent through JWA's global network can be arranged. Speak to our team to confirm availability and lead time for your location.
What documentation is issued?
A compliant proof load test record should include: the asset identity and current SWL; the reason for the test and the governing rule or standard; the test arrangement including lift plan and rigging detail; the load cell ID and calibration certificate reference; the achieved proof load; the hold time and any observations; pre and post-examination results; and sign-off by the competent person and any witness or surveyor. Where required, a certificate of inspection or certificate of test is issued, and the asset register is updated. Electronic certificates are available. For marine jobs, the ship's equipment register entry is updated as part of the close-out. If you need a specific certificate format for a class society or flag administration, confirm this at enquiry stage.
