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A Step-By-Step Guide To Crane Inspection

Writer's picture: Carmen ZajicekCarmen Zajicek

Cranes at high altitude

Cranes are complex machines with multiple components working together to lift and move an object to the intended location. Any malfunction or failure can cause serious crane damages and may put the lives of crane operators, ground personnel, and civilians in jeopardy. Here’s a step-by-step rundown of OSHA standards you should keep in mind when inspecting a crane.


Daily Crane Safety Inspections

According to 1926.1412(d), daily visual inspections must be conducted by a competent person before the shift starts. The inspection process includes:

  • Checking control and drive mechanisms for wear and tear

  • Looking for any leakage from the air and hydraulic lines

  • Determining the right fluid level of the hydraulic system

  • Identifying any wear and tear on hooks, latches, and wire rope

  • Checking condition of tires

  • Assessing cracks on the crane operator’s cab windows

  • Checking any loose rails and supporting surfaces

Crane safety devices inspection

According to standard number 1926.1416, some crane safety devices are considered as essential operational aids and operations must be stopped when they stop working. These operational aids include:

  • Boom hoist limiting device

  • Luffing jib indicator and limiting device

  • Anti-two-block device

  • Boom angle and length indicator

  • Load moment indicator

  • Outrigger position monitor

Monthly Crane Safety Inspections

Monthly inspections include conducting the same procedure as the daily inspection in a more detailed manner:

  • The employer conducting the inspections must document it in detail

  • The document should contain the name of the inspector and the date of inspection

  • The employer should keep the document for at least three months


Crane hoisting load

Yearly Crane Safety Inspections

Yearly inspections go through the same procedure as daily inspections but are much more comprehensive. Yearly inspection requires disassembly of the crane components to inspect the crane thoroughly. A comprehensive inspection should include the following:

  • Thoroughly inspect the crane structure, including the jib

  • Look for any signs of deformations, cracks, or corrosion of crane parts.

  • Tighten loose bolt, screws, rivets, and other parts

  • Replace any damaged or lost crane parts

  • Identify any inaccuracy with crane safety devices

  • Check drums and sheaves for wear and tear

  • Check operator control systems

  • Inspect chains for wear and tear

  • Inspect all other crane components and make the necessary fixtures


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