Crane Inspection Glossary
30 essential terms every crane operator, inspector, and safety director should know.
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Competent Person
A person capable of identifying existing and predictable crane hazards and authorized to take corrective measures.
Compliance Audit
A formal review of crane inspection records and safety procedures to verify adherence to OSHA and company standards.
Corrective Action
Steps taken to repair, replace, or address a deficiency found during a crane inspection.
Crane Inspector
A qualified professional certified to perform comprehensive crane inspections and assessments.
Crane Operator Certification
Mandatory third-party certification required by OSHA for all crane operators in construction.
Critical Lift
A crane lift that exceeds a specified percentage of rated capacity or involves unusual hazards requiring extra planning.
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Lattice Boom
A crane boom constructed from individual steel sections connected with pins, offering high strength-to-weight ratio for heavy lifts.
Lift Plan
A documented plan specifying the crane, rigging, load path, and safety procedures for a critical lift.
Load Chart
A manufacturer-provided chart showing the maximum safe lifting capacities at various boom lengths and radii.
Load Moment Indicator (LMI)
An electronic safety device that monitors crane load, boom angle, and radius to warn operators of overload conditions.
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Operating Radius
The horizontal distance from the crane's center of rotation to the center of the load being lifted.
OSHA Crane Inspection
A mandatory examination of crane equipment to verify safe operating condition per OSHA standards.
Outrigger
Extendable beams with pads that stabilize mobile cranes by increasing the base of support during lifting operations.
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Third-Party Inspection
An independent crane inspection performed by an external qualified inspector not employed by the crane owner or operator.
Tip-Over
A catastrophic event where a crane loses stability and overturns, often caused by overloading, ground failure, or improper setup.
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