Free AS 1418 crane inspection checklist

• The MapTrack AS 1418 crane inspection checklist contains 39 checks across 7 sections. Sections covered: A - Structural Inspection, B - Mechanical Components, C - Wire Ropes, Chains and Hooks, D - Electrical Systems, E - Safety Devices, F - Operator Cabin and Controls, G - Documentation and Compliance.
• Crane identification: asset ID, serial number, make and model, type (e.g. overhead bridge, tower, mobile, jib), safe working load (SWL), registration number and location or site.
• Inspection details: inspection date, inspector name and qualifications, type of inspection (daily pre-use, periodic, major), inspection interval reference and previous inspection date.
• Structural inspection: visual examination of main structural members, boom sections, jib, mast, tower sections, outriggers and supports for cracks, deformation, corrosion, loose fasteners and weld integrity.

Learn more about compliance and inspections in MapTrack.

• Regulatory compliance: provides documented evidence of inspections required under WHS Regulations and AS 1418.1:2021 Section 7.
• Defect detection: systematic checks across structural, mechanical, electrical and safety systems identify issues before they escalate into failures or incidents.
• Audit trail: completed checklists create a verifiable history of crane condition that satisfies regulators, insurers and third-party auditors.
• Consistency: every inspector follows the same inspection points in the same order, reducing the risk of missed items or subjective assessments.
• Maintenance planning: trends in inspection findings inform preventive maintenance scheduling and capital replacement decisions.
• Worker safety: thorough inspections of load-limiting devices, emergency stops, anti-collision systems and structural members directly protect operators, riggers and ground personnel.

• Crane identification: asset ID, serial number, make and model, type (e.g. overhead bridge, tower, mobile, jib), safe working load (SWL), registration number and location or site.
• Inspection details: inspection date, inspector name and qualifications, type of inspection (daily pre-use, periodic, major), inspection interval reference and previous inspection date.
• Structural inspection: visual examination of main structural members, boom sections, jib, mast, tower sections, outriggers and supports for cracks, deformation, corrosion, loose fasteners and weld integrity.
• Mechanical components: examination of hoisting mechanisms, slewing gear, travel mechanisms, gearboxes, bearings, brakes, clutches and hydraulic systems for wear, leaks and correct operation.
• Wire ropes and chains: inspection of wire ropes for broken wires, corrosion, kinking, bird-caging, diameter reduction and correct reeving. Inspection of chains for stretch, wear, deformation and correct engagement with sheaves or sprockets.
• Electrical systems: verification of power supply, main isolators, contactors, motor condition, cable reeling drums, festoon systems, pendant controls and cabin controls. Check for damaged insulation, loose connections and correct earthing.
• Safety devices: testing of load moment indicators (LMI), rated capacity indicators (RCI), anti-two-block devices, travel limit switches, hoist limit switches, slew limiters, wind speed indicators and emergency stop systems.
• Operator controls and cabin: inspection of control levers, pedals, seats, visibility, fire extinguisher, communication equipment, load charts and operator manual availability.
• Hooks and load-handling attachments: inspection of hooks for deformation, cracks, throat opening, safety latch operation and swivel condition. Check spreader bars, grabs and other attachments.
• Documentation and compliance: verification that the crane has a current registration (where required), major inspection certificate, maintenance log, load test certificate and operator competency records.
• Findings summary: overall condition assessment (serviceable, requires repair, unsafe for use), list of defects found, priority rating for each defect, corrective action required and due dates.
• Declaration and sign-off: inspector signature, print name, competency reference, date, and responsible person acknowledgement with signature and date.

1. Prepare for the inspection by reviewing the crane asset register, previous inspection reports, maintenance history and any outstanding defect notices.

   Confirm the crane identification details (asset ID, serial number, SWL, registration) match the physical nameplate. Identify the applicable inspection type and interval per AS 1418.1 Section 7.

2. Conduct the structural inspection, examining all main structural members, boom sections, mast, jib, outriggers and support structures for visible defects.

   Look for cracks, deformation, corrosion, paint flaking (which may hide corrosion), loose or missing bolts, damaged welds and signs of overloading. Use appropriate access equipment and lighting. Mark any defects for further assessment by a competent structural engineer if required.

3. Inspect mechanical components, wire ropes, chains, hooks and load-handling attachments in accordance with AS 1418.1 criteria.

   Check hoisting mechanisms, slewing gear, travel drives, brakes, clutches, hydraulic hoses and fittings. Inspect wire ropes for broken wires per the discard criteria in AS 1418.1 and AS 3569. Measure hook throat opening and check safety latch operation. Record all measurements and observations.

4. Test electrical systems and all safety devices, including load moment indicators, rated capacity indicators, limit switches and emergency stops.

   Verify correct operation of each safety device by functional testing under controlled conditions. Confirm limit switches engage before the crane reaches its physical limits. Test emergency stop from each control station. Check electrical insulation, earthing and cable condition.

5. Inspect the operator cabin or control station, verify load charts, manuals and communication equipment are present and legible.

   Confirm the load chart matches the crane configuration. Check that the operator manual, emergency procedures and contact details are accessible. Verify the fire extinguisher is current and the cabin provides adequate visibility and ergonomic controls.

6. Review documentation including registration certificate, major inspection reports, maintenance log, load test records and operator competency evidence.

   Confirm all documentation is current, accessible and matches the crane being inspected. Flag any expired certificates or overdue maintenance items as non-conformances.

7. Complete the findings summary, record the overall condition assessment, list all defects with priority ratings, assign corrective actions and obtain sign-off.

   Classify the crane as serviceable, requiring repair before further use, or unsafe for use. Ensure all parties sign the completed checklist. Distribute copies to the crane owner, site manager and maintenance team. File the original with the crane asset records.

Practical answers about the form, record keeping and using MapTrack.

This form is a starting point. Check the current requirements that apply to your equipment, work and location. The form alone does not establish compliance.

• AS 1418.1:2021 (Cranes, hoists and winches - General requirements) Section 7
• AS 3569 (Steel wire ropes - Product specification)
• WHS Regulations 2011 (Chapter 5 - Plant and structures)
• AS 2550 (Cranes, hoists and winches - Safe use) Series

• Model WHS Regulations (Safe Work Australia)
• AS 1418 series, Cranes, hoists and winches (Standards Australia listing)
• AS 2550 series, Cranes, hoists and winches, safe use (Standards Australia listing)

MapTrack publishes this template. The linked authorities publish their own guidance; they haven't endorsed this form.

• Crane pre-start checklist
• Safety inspection checklist
• Lifting equipment register
• Equipment pre-start checklist
• Plant compliance tracking
• Inspections and checklists
• Maintenance scheduling
• Pricing