Crane Inspection App Checklist

OSHA 1926.1412 requires daily visual inspections before each shift, documented in writing. CDL drivers must check: wire rope condition (6 broken wires per lay = out of service), all safety devices (anti-two block, LMI, rated capacity limiter), hooks and latches, outriggers and pins, hydraulic hoses for leaks, and structural members for cracks. Monthly inspections require documentation per 1926.1412(e), annual inspections need third-party certification per 1926.1412(f). Drivers operating without proper inspection documentation face fines up to $14,502 personally, CDL suspension for safety violations, and criminal liability if accidents occur. The app ensures you complete all required checks, maintains legal documentation, and protects you from "failure to inspect" citations. Remember: you're responsible even if the company doesn't provide inspection forms. Learn requirements with CDL inspection training.

A thorough crane inspection takes 15-30 minutes depending on crane size: Mobile cranes (15-20 minutes) - walk around, outriggers, wire rope, load block, safety devices, operational tests; Tower cranes (25-30 minutes) - additional mast bolts, tie-ins, climbing equipment; Crawler cranes (20-25 minutes) - track tension, travel locks, counterweight securement. The digital app reduces this by 40% through smart checklists that adapt to your specific crane model, photo documentation that's faster than writing, and voice input for hands-free noting. Never rush inspections to save time - one missed defect can end your career. Companies pushing for 5-minute inspections are setting you up for liability. The app timestamps everything, proving you took appropriate time. If pressured to skip inspections, the documentation protects you legally. Remember: it's better to be 15 minutes late than spend 15 years in prison. Track time with scheduling tools.

Finding defects protects you - operating with known defects makes you criminally liable. The app guides you through proper procedures: Tag out equipment immediately with "DANGER - DO NOT OPERATE" tags; Document defects with photos showing severity and exact location; Notify supervisor in writing (app generates reports automatically); refuse to operate until repairs are certified complete. Know your rights: You cannot be fired for refusing unsafe equipment (OSHA whistleblower protection); Document all pressure to operate defective equipment; Keep personal copies of all reports (app stores in cloud). Common defects requiring immediate shutdown: Broken wire rope strands, non-functional LMI, hydraulic leaks near operator, structural cracks, missing/damaged outrigger floats. The app categorizes defects by severity, creates work orders automatically, and maintains your "good faith" legal defense. Remember: finding defects shows professionalism, not incompetence. Document everything with digital forms.

The app adapts to your specific crane setup: Select crane type (mobile, crawler, tower, rough terrain) and it customizes inspection points; Input boom configuration and get correct load charts and capacity limits; Jib/extension additions automatically update inspection requirements; Counterweight configurations calculate proper capacities; Different carrier types (truck, crawler, all-terrain) adjust travel inspections. Smart features for operators: Photo library of common defects for each crane type; Quick reference for manufacturer-specific items (Grove vs. Liebherr vs. Link-Belt); Automatic adjustment for attachments (man baskets, concrete buckets, magnets); Weather-based additions (wind speed limits, lightning protocols); Site-specific requirements (refineries, power plants, highway work). The app maintains separate profiles for each crane you operate, remembers previous issues for follow-up, and provides model-specific torque specs and pressures. Perfect for operators certified on multiple crane types. Set up profiles using vehicle documentation.