10 Year Major Crane Inspections | Safe Lifting Australia

📋 Scope of Work: What Does a 10-Year Inspection Include?

The inspection will vary depending on the crane’s configuration, usage history, and environment, but typically includes the following:

1. Crane Visual and Mechanical Inspection

• All structural elements: bridge, end carriages, trolleys, and hoist frames

• Weld integrity checks and crack detection (NDT)

• Wear and corrosion on key load-bearing components

2. Crane and Hoist Mechanical Measurements

• Shaft wear and bearing condition

• Wheel wear, flange thickness, and alignment

• Gearbox, motor and brake condition

3. Crane Electrical System Testing

• Control systems, pendant or radio operation

• Limit switches and safety interlocks

• Wiring and motor insulation resistance testing (megger)

4. Crane Load Testing

• Typically includes proof load testing to 100% of Rated Capacity to validate structural integrity and control function

5. Drive Systems

• Motors and gearboxes are disassembled (where practical), inspected, and serviced or replaced

• Brake functionality and brake wear assessment

6. Crane Hoist and Hook Overhaul

• Hoist gears, rope drums, wire ropes, sheaves, and bearings

• Hook throat opening, wear and deformation measurements

• Magnetic particle or ultrasonic inspection for cracks

7. Crane Compliance and Safety Checks

• Conformance to current control circuit standards (e.g., AS 3000)

• Check for missing safety decals, guarding, or manual documentation

📚 What Standards Apply?

In Australia, 10-year inspections are guided primarily by:

• AS 2550.1 – Safe Use of Cranes – General Requirements

• AS 2550.3 – Bridge, Gantry, Portal (including container cranes)

• AS 1418 series – Design of Cranes (particularly AS 1418.1 and AS 1418.18)

These standards mandate a major inspection every 10 years or based on design life/DWP (Design Working Period), whichever occurs first. For high-use cranes, a major inspection may be due earlier.

🧾 Reporting and Outcomes

Following the inspection, a comprehensive report is produced outlining:

• Inspection findings (wear measurements, faults, photos)

• NDT results and load test certificates

• Risk assessment and recommendations

• Items requiring immediate action or future monitoring

• Confirmation of continued serviceability or repair scope

For compliance, this report must be retained and available to regulators and insurers, and is often required before cranes are allowed to return to service.

🔄 10-Year vs. 25-Year Crane Inspections

A 25-year inspection is essentially a life-extension evaluation, often needed if the crane is to be used beyond its original design life. This may involve full structural engineering review, extensive NDT, and often re-certification.

A 25-year inspection is essentially a life-extension evaluation, often needed if the crane is to be used beyond its original design life. This may involve full structural engineering review, extensive NDT, and often re-certification.

🛠️ Why Choose Safe Lifting Australia?

At Safe Lifting Australia, we’re specialists in overhead crane inspections across Perth, WA and beyond. Our certified inspectors work in accordance with Australian Standards and OEM requirements, ensuring your equipment remains compliant, safe, and operational.

We provide:

• Full 10-year inspection and reporting

• Component refurbishment or replacement

• Load testing and re-certification

• Mobile service teams for minimal downtime

• End-of-life and DWP assessments

📞 Book Your 10-Year Crane Inspection

If your crane is approaching the 10-year mark, don’t wait until it’s out of service. Speak to our team today and schedule your inspection to ensure compliance and reduce unplanned breakdowns.

📍 Safe Lifting Australia – Perth, WA
📞 1300 141 109
📧 service@safelifting.com.au