Crane Inspection Checklist for Daily Maintenance
Keep every lift safe and compliant with a concise, field-ready daily inspection checklist. This template walks operators through the essential pre-use checks needed to spot wear, damage, or setup issues before work begins — helping prevent downtime, near-misses, and costly failures.
What it covers: Operator readiness and required PPE. Site/setup conditions (ground stability, barricades, weather). Structural components (boom/jib/bridge, pins/bolts, guards). Power & hydraulics (leaks, hoses, fluids, electrics). Hoist system (wire rope/chain, sheaves/drum, reeving). Hooks & hardware (latch, throat opening, swivel). Controls & safety devices (E-stop, brakes, limit switches, alarms). Rigging gear and communication checks. No-load function test and defect reporting.
How to use:
1. Complete before the first lift of the shift (and after any incident or maintenance).
2. Mark each item pass/fail, attach photos where needed, and record hour-meter.
3. Tag-out defective components and log corrective actions.
4. Store records for audits and trend analysis.
Who it’s for: crane operators, maintenance teams, and supervisors in fabrication shops, warehouses, construction, and industrial sites. Works for mobile, tower, and overhead/gantry cranes — use the “if applicable” items as needed.
Available formats: download a printable PDF for clipboards, or load the checklist into a mobile app to capture photos, timestamps, GPS, and digital signatures. Consistent daily use supports regulatory compliance (e.g., OSHA/ASME guidelines), improves equipment reliability, and reinforces a strong safety culture.
Required PPE worn (helmet, gloves, glasses, safety footwear)
Daily inspection log present, last entry up to date
Current work permit / lift plan on site (if applicable)
Ground/support surface stable, no sinkholes/voids
Outriggers/stabilizers set with pads/cribbing (if applicable)
Counterweight configuration matches plan
Weather within limits (wind, visibility)
Upload a wide photo of the crane setup and work area
Boom/jib/bridge and trolley frames free of cracks, dents, deformation
Pins, bolts, retainers, rail clamps/end stops (overhead) secure
Turntable/slewing ring (or end trucks) free of abnormal noise
No leaks (hydraulic, fuel, coolant, gear oil)
Hoses/fittings free of abrasion, bulges, loose clamps
Fluid levels within spec (hydraulic, fuel, engine oil, coolant)
Cables/cords/festoon systems intact, no broken insulation
Wire rope/chain free of kinks, birdcaging, severe wear, corrosion
Reeving correct, rope sits properly in sheaves/drum
Sheaves/drum grooves smooth, no sharp edges
Hook undamaged, no twist/cracks, throat opening within spec, latch works
Swivel rotates freely, no binding
Upload close-up photo of rope/chain and main hook
All control functions smooth and labeled, emergency stop works
Hoist, swing, boom/trolley, and travel limit switches functional
Brakes and clutches hold/release correctly (hoist/swing/travel)
Warning devices (horn, lights, beacon, alarm) operational
Load path free of obstructions, tag lines available (if needed)
Communication method defined (signals/radio) and tested
Hoist up/down smooth, no abnormal noises/vibrations
Note defects or items removed from service, tag-out initiated if required
Items requiring follow-up maintenance/work order














