Free ewp / boom lift pre-start checklist
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Free EWP / boom lift pre-start checklist (PDF-ready). Covers controls, emergency descent, harness points, outriggers and structural checks. Download free.
Last updated: 2026-02-21
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See the first part of the ewp / boom lift pre-start checklist below. Download the full version above.
What is a ewp / boom lift pre-start checklist?
An EWP / boom lift pre-start checklist (or EWP daily inspection) is a structured form used to inspect an elevated work platform, such as a boom lift, scissor lift or spider lift - before it is operated. It helps operators and supervisors confirm the EWP is safe and fit for use, reducing the risk of falls, mechanical failures and non-compliance. The checklist should be completed before each use or at the start of each shift and is a preventive measure to catch problems, such as faulty emergency descent, damaged guardrails or hydraulic leaks - before they put workers at risk.
Benefits of using this ewp / boom lift pre-start checklist
- Worker safety at height: identify faults in harness points, guardrails, controls and emergency descent before workers are elevated.
- Defects before use: uncover structural, hydraulic or electrical problems that could cause an incident.
- Compliance: meet WHS obligations and demonstrate due diligence for EWP operation.
- Preventive maintenance: keep EWPs in good working order and reduce unexpected breakdowns.
- Consistency and accountability: a standardised approach so critical safety checks aren't missed.
- Recordkeeping: maintain a verifiable history of pre-start inspections for audits and investigations.
Benefits of digitising forms in MapTrack
When you digitise ewp / boom lift checklists in MapTrack, you get:
- Field users can easily scan a QR code to complete a form on mobile. Unlimited users.
- Automatically get alerts when faults are identified.
- Link every form digitally as a PDF to the relevant asset, location or person.
- Receive a digital PDF copy with every submission to your email.
- Ability to share forms digitally.
- Build conditional logic (show or hide questions based on answers).
- Take pictures or attach photos. Not possible with a paper-based form.
- Electronic signatures.
- Edit forms later without reprinting.
- Restrict permissions (who can view, complete or approve).
- Build forms with AI (describe what you need and MapTrack suggests the form).
- Auto-schedule pre-start forms so operators are prompted before every shift.
- Flag overdue pre-starts on the dashboard so nothing leaves the yard unchecked.
- Link each pre-start to the asset record for a complete inspection history.
Book a demo to see how MapTrack handles ewp / boom lift checklists.
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What to include in a ewp / boom lift pre-start checklist
This ewp / boom lift pre-start checklist covers 12 key areas:
- EWP details: asset ID, make/model, serial number, type (boom/scissor/spider).
- Operator details: name, licence/ticket number, date.
- Pre-operational checks: operator's manual available, rated capacity known, exclusion zone established.
- Structural: boom sections, turntable, platform/basket, guardrails, toe boards, gate/chain.
- Controls: ground controls, platform controls, emergency stop, emergency descent, function labels legible.
- Hydraulics: cylinders, hoses, fittings - no leaks.
- Electrical: battery charge, warning lights, alarms (motion/tilt).
- Tyres/wheels or tracks: condition, pressure, wheel nuts.
- Outriggers/stabilisers: pads, pins, operation.
- Safety equipment: harness anchor points, lanyard attachment, wind speed indicator (if fitted).
- Engine/power: oil, coolant, fuel, belts.
- Overall result, defects table, operator and supervisor sign-off.
How to use this ewp / boom lift pre-start checklist
- Complete EWP and operator details at the top of the checklist, including the EWP type (boom, scissor or spider).
- Walk around the EWP and inspect each item. Mark Pass or Fail (and add notes if needed).
- Test ground controls and platform controls, including emergency stop and emergency descent, before elevating.
- If any item fails, note it and do not operate the EWP until it is rectified or approved. Report defects per your procedures.
- Sign and date when the check is complete. Keep the form for your records or export/save as PDF.
In MapTrack, you can run digital pre-starts attached to each asset. Each submission is stored as a timestamped PDF against the asset record.
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Back to download formHow often should you complete this checklist?
Complete an EWP / boom lift pre-start inspection before each use or at the start of each shift. If the EWP has been moved to a new site, has had repairs, or was used by a different operator, perform a fresh check. Many sites require a daily pre-start for all EWPs on site. In addition to daily checks, manufacturers and regulators typically require periodic inspections (e.g. quarterly, annually and major inspections at set intervals). Your company policy, site rules or contract may specify frequency. When in doubt, complete the checklist each time the EWP is used.
Frequently asked questions
- What should an EWP pre-start check cover?
- An EWP pre-start check should cover structural items (boom sections, platform/basket, guardrails, toe boards), controls (ground controls, platform controls, emergency stop, emergency descent), hydraulics (cylinders, hoses, fittings), electrical (battery, warning lights, motion/tilt alarms), outriggers or stabilisers, safety equipment (harness anchor points, lanyard attachment), tyres/wheels or tracks, and engine or power source. Complete the check before each use or at the start of each shift.
- How often should EWPs be inspected?
- EWPs should receive a pre-start inspection before each use or at the start of each shift. In addition, manufacturers typically recommend periodic inspections (e.g. quarterly or annually) by a competent person, plus a major inspection every 10 years or as specified. Your jurisdiction, company policy or site requirements may specify additional frequencies. Always follow the most stringent requirement.
- Who can operate an EWP in Australia?
- In Australia, operators of boom-type elevating work platforms with a boom length of 11 metres or more require a High Risk Work Licence (EWP class WP). For EWPs under 11 metres or scissor lifts, a licence may not be required by law, but operators must still be trained and deemed competent. Requirements vary by state and territory, check your local WHS regulations and always verify operator competency before allowing use.
Need to run digital pre-starts attached to each asset?
Register every ewp / boom lift in MapTrack, attach digital forms, and get a complete history of every inspection, service and compliance record.
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