Free crane pre-start checklist

• The MapTrack crane pre-start checklist contains 40 checks across 9 sections. Sections covered: Walk-Around, Cab & Controls, Structural, Engine & Fluids, Wire Ropes & Rigging, Load Systems, Safety Devices, Lights & Electrics, Outrigger Setup (if mobile crane).
• Crane details: asset ID, make/model, serial number, hours reading, SWL/maximum capacity.
• Operator details: name, HRWL class and number, date, site/location.
• Walk-around: general condition, visible leaks, ground conditions and setup area.

Learn more about pre-start inspections in MapTrack.

• Catch critical issues before lifts: identify problems with the boom, wire ropes, hook block, LMI/RCI and anti-two-block devices before loads are lifted.
• Operator and rigger safety: confirm brakes, outriggers, emergency stops, slew systems and load-limiting devices are functioning before crane operation begins.
• Compliance with WHS and AS 2550: meet workplace health and safety obligations and Australian Standard AS 2550 (Cranes, hoists and winches) requirements for daily inspection of cranes.
• Preventive maintenance: keep the crane in good order by catching minor issues (low fluids, rope wear, loose bolts) before they become costly repairs or unplanned downtime.
• Consistency across operators: a standardised checklist ensures critical checks are not missed regardless of which operator is using the crane that shift.
• Recordkeeping for incidents and insurance: maintain a verifiable history of pre-start inspections for audits, insurance claims, incident investigations and regulatory inquiries.

• Crane details: asset ID, make/model, serial number, hours reading, SWL/maximum capacity.
• Operator details: name, HRWL class and number, date, site/location.
• Walk-around: general condition, visible leaks, ground conditions and setup area.
• Cab and controls: cabin access and housekeeping, seatbelt, mirrors/camera, wipers/washers/horn, gauges and displays.
• Structural: boom sections condition, jib condition (if fitted), outriggers/pads, slew ring/bearing, counterweights secure, turntable bolts.
• Engine and fluids: engine oil, coolant, hydraulic oil, fuel, batteries.
• Wire ropes and rigging: main hoist rope condition, auxiliary rope (if fitted), hook block and safety latch, sheaves/pulleys, rope terminations and dead ends.
• Load systems: load chart posted and legible, RCI/LMI operational, anti-two-block device, boom angle indicator, anemometer/wind speed (if fitted).
• Safety devices: fire extinguisher, first aid kit, emergency stops, beacon/strobe, reverse alarm.
• Lights and electrics: headlights/work lights, indicators/tail lights, battery terminals.
• Outrigger setup (if mobile crane): outrigger pads level, ground bearing adequate, exclusion zone marked.
• Overall result, defects table, operator and supervisor sign-off.

1. Complete crane and operator details at the top of the checklist, including the hours reading, SWL/capacity and HRWL class.

   Record the crane asset ID, make and model, current hour meter reading and the maximum safe working load. Enter your High Risk Work Licence class, licence number and the site or project name.

2. Perform a walk-around inspection before entering the cab. Check for leaks, structural damage, ground conditions and that the setup area is suitable for the planned lifts.

   Circle the crane at ground level looking for hydraulic or oil leaks, cracked welds, loose bolts and damage to outrigger pads. Confirm the ground is firm and level and the exclusion zone is established.

3. Go through each checklist item and inspect the corresponding component. Mark Pass or Fail (and add notes if needed). Pay particular attention to wire ropes, hook block, load systems and outriggers.

   Run each wire rope through your gloved hand feeling for broken wires, kinks or flat spots. Verify the hook safety latch closes fully. Test the RCI/LMI display reads correctly and the anti-two-block device activates.

4. If any item fails, note it and do not operate the crane until it is rectified or approved. Report defects per your procedures and the requirements of AS 2550.

   Tag the crane out of service for critical defects such as failed load limiting devices, damaged wire ropes or non-functional emergency stops. Notify the supervisor and maintenance team immediately.

5. Sign and date when the check is complete. Keep the form for your records or export/save as PDF.

   Confirm every item is marked Pass, Fail or N/A. Print your name, sign and record the date and time. In MapTrack, submit the completed inspection to link it to the crane asset record automatically.

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 2550 (Cranes, hoists and winches - Safe use)
• AS 1418 (Cranes, hoists and winches)
• WHS Regulations (plant and equipment)

• 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.

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