Inspection, Maintenance and Pre-Use Checks
Inspection questions distinguish statutory thorough examination from routine checks and test whether you know frequency and who may do what.
Thorough examination (LOLER)
- Before first use; at statutory intervals (commonly 6 months for lifting equipment, 12 months for some accessories - check the applicable schedule); after substantial alteration or repair; and after exceptional circumstances (storm, overload, shock loading, collision).
- Performed by a competent person, producing a report; defects marked as requiring attention before further use stop the crane.
Routine inspection and maintenance
- Pre-use checks by the operator each shift: ropes, hooks and latches, limit switches, brakes, warning devices, fluid levels, ballast security, and the base/foundations.
- Planned maintenance per the manufacturer's schedule, recorded.
- Defect reporting with a clear system: report, record, isolate, repair, re-check.
Traps
- Confusing the pre-use check with thorough examination.
- Assuming a passing examination means no daily checks are needed.
- Overlooking rope inspection criteria (broken wires, diameter reduction, corrosion, distortion).
Rule of thumb
Any defect affecting safe lifting - a damaged hook latch, an inoperative limit switch, a suspect rope - means the crane is out of service until rectified and verified.