EWP & Cherry Picker Inspection Mistakes to Avoid

Overview

Elevated work platforms carry people, not just loads — which is why the standards around them are strict and the consequences of shortcuts are severe.

From hire fleets to owner-operators, these are the EWP inspection mistakes we see most, and how professional inspection protects your people and your business.

The Most Common Mistakes

• Believing the logbook stamp covers you — a stamp without genuine NDT of critical welds is paperwork, not safety
• Skipping the 10-year major inspection because the machine 'still works'
• Missing cracks at boom pivots, knuckles and turret welds — classic fatigue points that need MPI or dye penetrant
• Painting over defects — fresh paint hides cracks and voids meaningful visual inspection
• Buying a used EWP without an independent pre-purchase inspection
• Assuming the hire company handled it — as the operator of plant, you still hold WHS duties

What These Mistakes Cost

A boom or basket failure at height is usually catastrophic. Short of that: machines pulled off hire, failed audits, void warranties and insurance disputes when the inspection history doesn't hold up.

The 10-year major inspection under AS 2550.10 is not optional — and it must be thorough enough to be defensible, including NDT of critical structural welds.

Why Use an Appropriate Inspection Scope

• Method-specific crack detection on booms, knuckles, pivots and chassis welds
• Major-inspection support with AS 2550.10 considered where applicable
• Defect photos, locations and clear repair recommendations
• Reports recording scope, observations, relevant indications and limitations
• Mobile attendance arranged around access, location and agreed scope