Pre-operational Inspection, Maintenance and Defect Reporting
The pre-start walkaround
Before each shift, the operator performs a documented inspection: tyres and tracks, outriggers and pads, boom and jib condition, wire rope (broken wires, kinks, corrosion, spooling), hook and latch, sheaves, brakes, clutches, limit switches, load moment indicator or rated capacity limiter, alarms, lights, fire extinguisher and fluid levels. The inspection is not a substitute for scheduled maintenance, and finding a defect does not authorise you to "monitor it" and keep lifting.
Defect classification and action
Defects are typically classed as minor (log and monitor, may continue if safe) or major/safety-critical (stop work, tag out, report). Safety-critical defects include rope damage beyond discard criteria, inoperative limit switches, faulty load indicators, brake problems and structural cracks. The correct action is to stop, isolate or tag the crane, report to the supervisor, and record it. The trap is an option that says "complete the lift then report"; that is always wrong.
Records and maintenance
Log books, service records and inspection checklists must be completed and retained. Maintenance intervals follow the manufacturer. Modifications or repairs to structural components require engineering assessment; unauthorised welding or straightening is prohibited.
Worked rule of thumb
Apply the "stop-tag-report-record" sequence for any safety-critical defect. If in doubt whether a defect is critical, treat it as critical and seek competent advice.