Your aerial lift is a very important piece of equipment with numerous industrial applications. It should also be regularly inspected to ensure a safe working environment. According to ANSI standards (ANSI/SIA 92.6-1999), routine inspections should be performed frequently as well as annually. Unfortunately, the wording might seem a little unclear. Here’s a quick overview to help you understand the basics. If you have any specific questions contact Adcock Equipment Inc. in Edmonton, Alberta, serving Calgary and Red Deer, Alberta.

How Frequently Should Your Manlift be Inspected?

You should always review your manufacturer’s preventive maintenance recommendations to determine what they consider “frequent.” All inspections must be performed by a mechanic or technician qualified to inspect your specific make and model.

For example, Genie recommends frequent inspections under the following conditions.

  • If the lift was purchased pre-owned. Inspections are not required if the seller can prove that the lift’s inspection and service record is up-to-date.
  • After the lift has been in service for 3 months or 150 hours (whichever comes first).
  • If the lift has been out of service for over 3 months.

What Is Inspected?

Annual aerial lift inspections must be scheduled within 13 months of the last annual inspection. The inspection label can usually be found posted in a conspicuous location directly on the lift itself. Both the frequent and annual inspections should be performed by a mechanic or technician qualified to inspect your specific make and model of aerial lift.

Manufacturers often have slightly different standards for inspection, and you should review your owner’s manual to familiarize yourself with those standards. Your authorized technician will also know the standards and can explain them to you in more specific detail. Here are a few of the things that they typically inspect.

  • Speed and control functions
  • Lifting mechanisms
  • Lowering controls
  • Safety devices
  • Lubrication, fluids and filters
  • Fasteners, pins, shafts and locking devices
  • Warnings and control markings

If any problems are discovered during the inspection the lift cannot be placed back into service until they have been addressed. A follow-up inspection may or may not be required.

When Should You Schedule An Inspection?

You can’t plan ahead for your frequent inspections, but your annual inspection can be scheduled for the same time each year. If the lift must be taken outdoors for inspection it might not be convenient or suitable to schedule the inspection during the winter months. Be sure to review all of the inspection standards with your operators and make sure they let you know when it’s time for an unscheduled inspection.

When it comes to manlifts in Edmonton, Alberta and western Canada can count on Adcock Equipment Inc. We serve Calgary and Red Deer, Alberta.