A single faulty crane, a worn-out sling, or a missed inspection can bring your entire project to a halt. Worse, it can put your team at serious risk.
Equipment failures aren’t just inconvenient; they can be catastrophic, leading to costly delays, damaged materials, injuries, and even loss of life. And the legal actions and hefty fines that come with it shake your reputation and finances.
You can avoid all this trouble by ensuring your lifting equipment is inspected. This article will tell you everything about lifting equipment inspection and how you can stay compliant with the Australian Standards.
COMMON LIFTING EQUIPMENT AND GEAR TO INSPECT
Before we move towards the inspection, let’s understand what machines and accessories we include in the lifting equipment inspection.
Any machine you use for lifting, like cranes and hoists, is counted. Any accessory or equipment, like chains and shackles, is crucial for inspection. Below is a list of some lifting machines and accessories that require regular inspection.
Lifting machines:
- Cranes
- Forklifts
- Boom lifts
- Scissor lifts
- Hoists
- Winches
- Elevated Work Platforms (EWP)
- Telehandlers
Lifting accessories:
- Slings
- Shackles
- Clutches
- Chains
- Hooks
- Rigging equipment
WHY LIFTING EQUIPMENT INSPECTION IS IMPORTANT
The machines and equipment I mentioned above often lift heavy loads, which are common in construction and maintenance projects.
In case a lifting equipment fails mid-use, the suspended load can cause devastating consequences. Property damage, injuries and loss of life are severe repercussions of equipment failures.
To prevent such mishaps, the Australian safety standards require regular inspection of lifting gear. This ensures the machines and accessories are safe to use and won’t pose any risk during operation.
WHO CAN INSPECT LIFTING EQUIPMENT?
The Australian Standard AS 2550.1-2020 requires that inspections be carried out by a competent person. The standard defines a competent person as someone who has received proper training and gained enough experience to identify damage, assess risks, spot potential faults in equipment, and determine whether it meets the requirements of the Australian Standard.
This person can inspect and test the machine’s operation and lifting capacity, and provide solutions or safety instructions if there is a failure or potential risk.
They are also responsible for inspecting every component of the machine and testing its operation using dedicated machines in controlled environments.
HOW TO INSPECT LIFTING EQUIPMENT
The AS 2550.1-2020 mentions 2 types of inspections that are necessary for lifting equipment.
In-service inspection
Prior to every use, the operator must visually examine the equipment. This routine inspection involves looking for any signs of damage or wear, confirming that the inspection tag is valid, and making sure the load you plan to lift is within the machine’s maximum capacity.
It also includes checking that all gear and accessories are securely set up. Ensure there are no loose parts in the machine. In-service inspection doesn’t require a competent person. It is carried out by the operator on-site.
What to do if you find a fault
If you find any signs of damage, corrosion, or malfunction, immediately remove the machine from the site and send it for inspection. A competent person will examine the equipment and guide you on the repair or discarding of the machine.
Periodic inspection
A competent person is responsible for conducting periodic inspections using dedicated machines and equipment. Third-party inspection companies conduct this inspection.
Periodic inspection involves checking every part of the machine and putting it to an actual load test. You can visually examine the damage, but you cannot visually inspect the load capacity of the equipment. This is specifically tested in periodic inspections, through testing equipment in controlled conditions.
During periodic inspections, the inspector performs a series of specialized tests, records the results, and attaches an inspection tag to the machine that includes at least the following details.
- Inspection date
- Name of the inspector
- Equipment identification (serial number or code)
- Load capacity of the equipment
- Inspection validity date
The recordkeeping process is highly detailed. It captures all the findings and actions taken during and after the inspection.
It’s the employer’s responsibility to maintain these records and have them accessible for audits. Many companies use software systems for record keeping, making the history of the equipment secure and easily retrievable.
You must keep records that include, but are not limited to
- Inspection date
- Name of inspector
- Type of inspection (routine check, 6‑monthly, annual)
- Equipment identification (serial number, code)
- Condition of components and any defects found
- Actions taken (repairs, parts replaced, equipment removed from service)
Why is record keeping important
Records are essential. You should have a proper channel for documenting and storing the inspection records. During audits, inspectors will ask for proof that your lifting equipment inspections are up to date.
In case of an accident, the written records will save you from legal actions and fines as they show you had done your due diligence.
How Often Should You Inspect Lifting Equipment?
Every lifting machine and accessory requires a different inspection frequency. It depends on the equipment itself, its material, modifications (if any) and frequency and intensity of use. If you use lifting equipment regularly for heavy loads, you must inspect it more often than equipment that isn’t used as rigorously.
The user is responsible for conducting an in-service inspection before every use. While the periodic inspections can be every 3 months, 6 months or yearly, depending on the equipment and the above-mentioned factors.
Moreover, a competent person must inspect any lifting equipment that has undergone repairs or modifications before you use it again.
Conclusion
Treat inspections as an investment in safety, not a formality. Regular lifting equipment inspection is not just a compliance requirement; it is vital for the safety of the workers. When you maintain and certify your equipment, you protect your people, your projects, and your reputation.
By following the Australian Standard AS 2550.1-2020, engaging competent inspectors, and keeping accurate records, you minimise the risk of accidents and costly legal consequences.
