Introduction
Pre-use inspection of truck-mounted cranes is critical for ensuring operational safety, equipment reliability, and regulatory compliance. This comprehensive checklist guides operators through essential inspection points needed prior to operating these powerful and complex lifting machines. Thorough pre-use inspections help prevent accidents, equipment damage, and costly downtime while ensuring compliance with OSHA regulations and manufacturer specifications.
Truck-mounted cranes operate in challenging environments and are subject to significant stress during lifting operations. Regular pre-use inspections help identify potential mechanical issues, hydraulic leaks, structural problems, or safety concerns before they lead to catastrophic failures or workplace accidents. By following this systematic pre-use inspection routine, operators can ensure reliable performance, maintain lifting capacity integrity, and significantly extend the service life of the equipment while promoting a safer working environment for all personnel on the construction site.
Equipment Information
Pro Tips for Effective Truck-Mounted Crane Inspection
- Position on Level Ground: Always position the truck on level, stable ground when performing inspections to get accurate readings and ensure stability during testing.
- Two-Person Inspection: When possible, use a two-person team for inspections - one person operating controls while the other checks component movements and functions.
- Check Weather Conditions: Before beginning inspection, verify that weather conditions are suitable for safe crane operation and inspection, including wind speed checks.
- Sequential Approach: Follow a systematic inspection sequence - truck chassis first, then crane superstructure, boom system, and finally operational checks.
Documentation and Certifications
Truck Carrier Inspection
Outrigger System
Hydraulic System
Crane Superstructure
Boom System
Hoisting System
Controls and Indicators
Safety Systems
Operational Tests
Work Site Assessment
Detailed Inspection Procedures
Follow these structured procedures to ensure a thorough inspection of your truck-mounted crane. These procedures should be performed in sequence by qualified operators who hold appropriate certifications.
Wire Rope Inspection
- Wear gloves to protect hands during inspection
- Check wire rope through entire working length
- Look for broken wires (6 randomly distributed in one lay or 3 in one strand)
- Inspect for kinking, crushing, bird-caging, or core protrusion
- Check for reduction in rope diameter (more than 5% from nominal)
- Look for excessive wear, corrosion, or heat damage
- Verify proper spooling on drum (no crossover or bunching)
- Document findings with specifics on location of damage
Outrigger Function Test
- Ensure area is clear around outrigger deployment zone
- Engage PTO and hydraulic system
- Extend each outrigger beam fully, one at a time
- Lower each outrigger jack to firm contact with ground/pad
- Check for smooth operation and no drift
- Verify leveling using bubble level indicator
- Check outrigger interlocks if equipped
- Verify holding valves by shutting engine after setup
Safety System Function Test
- Verify anti-two-block device works in all boom positions
- Test load moment indicator with known test weight if available
- Check boom angle indicator against manual measurement
- Test outrigger interlock system if equipped
- Verify emergency stop button stops all functions
- Test override functions (if equipped) per manufacturer's procedure
- Check audible/visual alarms are functional
- Document all safety system tests in log
Control Function Test
- Start engine and allow warm-up
- Test each motion individually at slow speed first
- Check boom raise/lower - smooth without jerking
- Test boom extension/retraction - even movement
- Verify swing operation in both directions
- Check hoist up/down operation with light load
- Test smooth speed transitions for all functions
- Verify all functions stop immediately when controls released
Inspection Progress
0% complete
Electronic Signature
Apply Signature
Defects & Maintenance Notes
Conclusion
Implementing this comprehensive Truck-Mounted Crane Pre-Use Safety Checklist is essential for maintaining equipment safety, performance, and compliance with regulations. By systematically checking all critical components before each use, crane operators can identify potential issues before they lead to equipment failure, accidents, or costly downtime. Regular pre-use inspections help ensure reliable lifting operations, maintain crane integrity, and create a safer work environment for all personnel on the construction site.
For optimal inspection management, consider implementing the HVI APP (Heavy Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance software) to streamline your crane inspection process. The HVI platform allows digital documentation of inspections, provides real-time alerts for maintenance requirements, and creates comprehensive historical records for each piece of equipment. With the Heavy Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance software, fleet managers can easily track compliance, monitor maintenance patterns, and ensure all lifting equipment is properly inspected before each operation.
Make truck-mounted crane pre-use inspections an integral part of your lifting operation safety protocols with the HVI software's comprehensive inspection management solution. Whether for regulatory compliance, warranty maintenance, or operational safety, this digital approach significantly improves inspection thoroughness and documentation while reducing administrative burden on operators and maintenance personnel.
Access the digital version of this checklist through the HVI APP
© 2025 Truck-Mounted Crane Pre-Use Safety Checklist | Developed by Heavy Vehicle Inspection (HVI) | Contact us at contact@heavyvehicleinspection.com for customized inspection solutions.