Cranes are intricate equipment with many moving parts and essential functions. They lift, move, and handle heavy loads in various environments. Because of their multiple components and workloads, cranes must be frequently inspected and maintained to ensure efficient and safe operations.

The Work Health and Safety (WHS) has various regulations and laws regarding crane inspections. It also lists mandatory pre-operational, routine, periodic, and major inspections. 

WHS Crane Inspection Requirements 

The Work Health and Safety Act 2011 offers various standards for the maintenance and inspection of cranes. 

Cranes Must be Inspected by Component Personnel 

Under WHS guidelines, you must appoint individuals with the skills, knowledge and training to inspect cranes. These personnel must have the necessary mechanical trade and engineering training and certificates. They must also be updated with WHS safety standards and manufacturer equipment guides. 

Cranes Must Have Safety Devices

Cranes must be equipped with safety devices such as emergency stop devices, overload limiters, load indicators, and jib stops. If these devices are faulty or not working, they must be frequently inspected, repaired, or replaced. 

You Must Perform Frequent and Periodic Inspections 

Regular and periodic inspections must be carried out to ensure cranes are functional and safe. These include daily, pre-operational checks and periodic inspections, including scheduled and major checks, which may occur annually or based on how often a crane is used.

Sequence of Crane Inspections

To help you successfully perform crane inspections, here’s the order of required inspections with checklists. 

1. Pre-Operational

The pre-operational or initial inspection is done daily before using a crane. It involves inspecting the crane components to ensure they’re functional and safe. Some checks to include in the initial inspection include the following:

• Review new and replaced parts before using

• Check for faulty or damaged components and repair or replace them before using a crane.

• Inspect the condition of hoist ropes, hooks, sheaves, booms and trolleys.

Test the following crane functions:

• Hoisting and lowering

• Trolley travel  

• Safety devices 

• Limit switches

• Locking devices 

• Bridge travel 

• Perform a load test.

2. Frequent

Frequent or routine checks can occur daily or monthly, depending on advice from component personnel. Here are some routine inspections to follow:

• Check fluid levels and ensure all moving parts are lubricated. 

• Inspect filter systems. 

• Check for leaks in lines, tanks, valves and drain pumps.

• Check for unusual noises in the motor and engine at start-up and during use.

• Inspect crane signage components and safety devices.

• Review operating mechanisms for excessive wear. 

• Check hoist chains, including end chains, for twists.

• Inspect mechanisms for malfunctions that could affect performance during use.

• Check hooks for damages or deformations.

3. Periodic 

Cranes must undergo periodic inspections by a competent third party. These checks can happen bi-monthly or annually, depending on the usage or workload of a crane. It also involves a qualified professional reviewing the quality of maintenance and repairs of a crane and ensuring it’s up to industry standards. Here’s what a periodic inspection can include:

• Inspecting crane components for cracks, corrosion and deformities. 

• Reviewing the structural integrity. 

• Inspecting safety and warning devices.

• Checking for loose bolts and rivets. 

• Checking electrical components for signs of wear or deterioration.

• Checking if the sheaves and drums are cracked or worn out. 

• Check limit switches and push buttons for signs of wear.

• Inspect the brake system parts for damage or wear.

• Checking the fuel system for improper performance. 

What Is a Major Crane Inspection? 

A major crane inspection is an in-depth examination of a crane’s critical components. It is typically performed on cranes that have been in service for 10 years or more to ensure they are safe for use. Requirements for major crane inspections include:

• Stripping down critical crane components 

• Removing grease and paint

• Checking structural welds for wear and corrosion

• Inspecting slew rings and load bearings for fatigue and corrosion.

• Non-destructive testing

• Performing complex repairs and replacements to prepare the crane for continued service.

Need Reliable Crane Hire Services?

At St George Cranes, we oversee critical inspections and maintenance, so you don’t have to. We inspect our equipment according to leading industry standards to ensure it is compliant, functional and safe. 

To rent a crane, contact us online.