Field guide · 2 min read
Crane inspection checklist
What our inspectors check on a mobile or tower crane, and what to have ready so the job is done in one visit.
01Have these ready
- The last inspection certificate and the current tag or sticker on the crane.
- The load chart and operator's manual, kept in the cab.
- Maintenance and repair records for the past 12 months.
- Operator and rigger cards from a recognized third party.
- A firm, level set-up area, and the test load if a load test is in the scope.
02What we check
Every crane is inspected against its manufacturer's manual and the standard named in your contract, usually ASME B30.5 for mobile cranes and ASME B30.3 for tower cranes. On site, that means:
- Structure. Boom, jib and lattice sections for cracks, dents and bent lacing, plus welds, pins and retainers.
- Wire ropes. Broken wires, kinks, birdcaging, corrosion and diameter loss, against ISO 4309 discard criteria, plus end terminations.
- Hook and block. Throat opening, wear and twist, the safety latch, swivel and sheaves.
- Safety devices. Rated capacity indicator, anti-two-block, hoist and boom limits, slew lock, horn, lights and emergency stop.
- Outriggers. Beams, jacks and pads, and the ground under each pad.
- Hydraulics and controls. Leaks, hose condition, cylinder drift and clear control markings.
03The load test
When a load test is in the scope, the test load follows the standard on the job. For mobile cranes, ASME B30.5 caps it at 110% of the rated load. We record the configuration, radius and load on the report, so the consultant can see exactly what was tested.
04After the visit
If the crane passes, it gets a SMAT tag the same day and the report follows within 1–5 working days. If it fails, we list exactly what needs fixing and re-inspect as soon as you tell us it is done. A crane that is unsafe never gets a certificate.