Cranes are essential in construction and industrial work but come with significant safety responsibilities. Regular inspections are necessary to prevent accidents, ensure smooth operations, and comply with regulations.

However, managing heavy equipment maintenance, especially for cranes, can be overwhelming, with constant concerns about safety, compliance, and efficiency.

We get it—these challenges are tough. This article will guide you on how often cranes should be inspected, the types of inspections needed, and the risks of neglecting them.

Why Are Crane Inspections Important?

Regular crane inspections are a critical part of keeping your operations safe, efficient, and cost-effective. Understanding their importance can help you maintain the longevity and reliability of your equipment while protecting your team and your business.

#1 Safety Concerns

Cranes are powerful machines that handle heavy loads. But with that power comes risk, including:

• A minor fault in a crane’s operation can lead to severe accidents, risking not only the operators but everyone on site.
• Regular crane inspections are essential to identify and fix these faults before they become dangerous.
• By catching wear and tear, mechanical issues, or other potential hazards early, you significantly reduce the risk of accidents, making sure the safety of your workers and everyone around the crane.

#2 Regulatory Compliance

In Australia, strict industry regulations mandate regular crane inspections to keep operations safe and compliant.

Bodies like WorkSafe Australia set specific guidelines that businesses must follow to avoid penalties and ensure a safe working environment. These regulations require inspections at different intervals—daily, monthly, or annually—depending on the crane’s use and type.

#3 Preventing Costly Downtime

When a crane is out of service due to an unexpected breakdown, it can cause significant delays and increase costs.

Regular inspections are a proactive way to keep your equipment running smoothly. This approach helps ensure that your cranes are always ready to perform, keeping your projects on track and minimising costly disruptions.

How Often Should Each Type of Crane Be Inspected?

Different types of cranes have varying inspection needs based on how they are used and the environments they operate in.

Understanding these differences will ensure that your cranes are properly maintained and always ready for safe operation.

#1 Mobile Cranes

For mobile cranes, daily visual checks by operators are important to catch any immediate issues, while more detailed inspections should be conducted at least once a month.

Because of their frequent movement and diverse usage, mobile cranes should be inspected more regularly.

If a mobile crane is heavily used or operating in harsh conditions, more frequent inspections may be necessary to make sure it remains safe and operational.

#2 Overhead Cranes

Given their constant use, overhead cranes require frequent inspections.

Daily checks should focus on essential components like hooks, hoists, and wire ropes to ensure they are functioning correctly.

A more thorough inspection should be carried out monthly to examine all critical parts and identify any signs of wear or damage.

#3 Tower Cranes

Daily checks by the operator should be carried out for tower cranes, complemented by weekly and monthly inspections conducted by qualified personnel.

Due to the complex and high-risk nature of their operation, tower cranes require rigorous inspection protocols. These inspections should focus on the crane’s structural integrity, electrical systems, and safety features.

#4 Customised Maintenance Plans

While general guidelines exist for crane inspections, the best approach is to develop a customised maintenance and inspection schedule.

This plan should consider the type of crane, how often it is used, and the specific conditions it operates under.

For example, a crane used in a harsh, corrosive environment may need more frequent checks compared to one used in a less demanding setting.

By tailoring your inspection schedule to your specific needs, you can ensure that all your cranes receive the appropriate level of care.

Regular crane servicing and inspections, customised to fit your unique operational needs, are key to maintaining safety and efficiency in your projects.

Final Words

Regular crane inspections are vital to maintaining safety, compliance, and efficiency in any operation involving heavy equipment. Whether it’s a mobile crane, an overhead crane, or a tower crane, each type of crane requires specific inspection routines to make sure it remains in peak condition.

If you haven’t reviewed your crane inspection schedule recently, now is the time to do so. In case you’re unsure whether your current practices are up to par, or if you need assistance in developing a customised inspection plan, consider seeking professional crane servicing.