Crane Inspection FAQs

Routine, third-party, 10-year and 25-year crane inspections explained

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Overhead Crane Inspection: What is it and how often do they need to occur?

What is a routine crane inspection?

Routine crane inspections are frequent operational checks intended to confirm a crane remains safe for continued service between more detailed inspections.

Typically include:

• Functional testing of controls, brakes, and emergency stops

• Inspection of safety switches and interlocks

• Visual checks of wire ropes, chains, hooks, and sheaves

• Lubrication checks and fluid levels

• Review of logbooks and recorded defects

Not intended to assess:

• Structural fatigue

• Remaining service life

• Long-term suitability for operation

What is a third-party crane inspection?

A third-party crane inspection is an independent inspection performed by a provider not responsible for routine servicing or maintenance.

Commonly used to:

• Provide independent verification of condition or compliance

• Includes the same inspection as routine and can include usage review

• Review previous inspection or rectification work

• Assess higher-risk or ageing cranes

Provides:

• Objectivity

• Audit defensibility

• Independent technical judgement

What is a 10-year crane inspection?

A 10-year crane inspection is a major inspection intended to assess crane condition beyond routine service checks.

Typically includes:

• Detailed mechanical inspection (wheels, gearboxes, motors, hook, shafts)

• Assessment of fatigue-critical areas - NDT

• Measurement of wear, deformation, and tolerances

• Review of operating history and duty classification

• Identification of latent defects not visible during routine inspections

• Reporting

• Includes recommendations regarding components and replacement or refurbishment

What is a 25-year crane inspection?

A 25-year crane inspection is a critical lifecycle assessment of a crane’s suitability for continued safe operation.

At this stage, cranes are often:

• At or beyond their original Design Working Period (DWP)

• Subject to cumulative fatigue and degradation

Typically includes:

• Comprehensive structural and mechanical inspection

• Detailed inspection of fatigue-critical components

• Review of historical loading and abnormal events

• Clear recommendations on:

  • Continued operation

  • Rectification

  • Derating

  • Life extension

  • Replacement planning