BUSINESS ISSUES
A pre-start inspection should also include a check to make sure that all safety devices are operating properly, as well as a check for modifications to the machine’ s components. It is important at this point to verify that any modifications on the machine have been approved by the manufacturer to avoid safety violations.
# 2: Walk-Around Inspection
Access equipment gets a lot of use throughout the work week, and things do happen— items get damaged, cracked or worn out. These discrepancies may start small, and may not even be noticeable at first, but over time, as they get bigger, they could affect the safe operation of the machine. Taking time each day to do a 360-degree walk-around of the machine will help locate these discrepancies as soon as possible.
The walk-around needs to include a thorough, visual inspection of all the machine’ s critical components, including( but not limited to) the chassis, engine compartment, electrical connections, scissor stack or boom assembly, control systems and stations and so on. A machine’ s Operations and Safety Manual is the best resource to consult on how to conduct a proper walk-around inspection.
# 3: Function Tests
Once the walk-around inspection is completed, perform a function check on all the machine’ s systems to ensure they operate properly. These should be done in an area free of overhead and ground-level obstructions.
# 4: Annual Machine Inspection
Once a year( no later than 13 months from the previous one), ANSI and CSA guidelines require MEWP equipment owners and fleet managers to conduct annual machine inspections( AMI) on every aerial lift in their fleets, regardless of brand, make or model. An AMI can help verify that each piece of equipment, and all the machine’ s components, are in good operating condition. It also can verify that the machine is registered with the OEM and that any open safety-related bulletins are addressed as part of the inspection.
Should wear parts be included in
Q2 inspections?
Yes, all parts on these machines need to be thoroughly inspected and serviced regularly to help prevent operator injuries, major repairs and unplanned downtime.
Any part that affects the safety or productivity of a machine should be checked often. Using a combination of hands-on and data inspections, be sure you regularly check these wear parts to ensure operator safety and equipment efficiency.
Some of the easiest components to check are also ones that can have the most severe consequences if they have issues. For example, a walkaround of a telehandler before use should include the machine’ s tires and fluid levels( hydraulic, oil, DEF, fuel, etc.), as well as steering and brake( emergency and parking) systems, headlights, taillights, brake lights,
All parts on machines need to be thoroughly inspected and serviced regularly to help prevent operator injuries, major repairs and unplanned downtime.
12 l May-June 2025