Lift Inspection Checklist
A pre-start checklist for scissor lifts and boom lifts. Print one for every shift, check each item, and sign it. Free to copy and share with your crew.
Aerial lift pre-start inspection
Complete before each work shift. Follow the manufacturer's operator manual for your model.
Vehicle components
| Check | OK | Fix | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Proper fluid levels (oil, hydraulic, fuel and coolant) | |||
| Leaks of fluids | |||
| Wheels and tires | |||
| Battery and charger | |||
| Lower-level controls | |||
| Horn, gauges, lights and backup alarms | |||
| Steering and brakes |
Lift components
| Check | OK | Fix | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operating and emergency controls | |||
| Personal protective devices | |||
| Hydraulic, air, pneumatic, fuel and electrical systems | |||
| Fiberglass and other insulating components | |||
| Missing or unreadable placards, warnings, or operational, instructional and control markings | |||
| Mechanical fasteners and locking pins | |||
| Cable and wiring harnesses | |||
| Outriggers, stabilizers and other structures | |||
| Loose or missing parts | |||
| Guardrail systems |
Work zone
| Check | OK | Fix | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drop-offs, holes, or unstable surfaces such as loose dirt | |||
| Inadequate ceiling heights | |||
| Slopes, ditches, or bumps | |||
| Debris and floor obstructions | |||
| Overhead electric power lines and communication cables | |||
| Other overhead obstructions | |||
| Other hazardous locations and atmospheres | |||
| High wind and other severe weather conditions, such as ice | |||
| The presence of others in close proximity to the work |
If any item needs a fix, do not operate the lift. Tag it out of service until a qualified person repairs it.
Items from OSHA's Aerial Lifts fact sheet (osha.gov). Checklist courtesy of Chupp Industrial Inc. — chuppindustrial.com
Lift inspection questions
How often should an aerial lift be inspected?
OSHA says to do a pre-start inspection prior to each work shift, following the manufacturer's recommendations, to verify the lift and all its components are in safe operating condition.
What if something on the checklist fails?
Do not operate the lift. OSHA says to remove a defective aerial lift from service (tag it out) until it is repaired by a qualified person.
Does this replace the operator's manual?
No. Always follow the manufacturer's operator manual for your exact model - it lists the checks that machine needs. This sheet covers the general items OSHA names for every aerial lift.
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