EWP & Cherry Picker Inspection Mistakes to Avoid
Common elevated work platform inspection mistakes — and why AS 2550.10 compliance needs certified NDT, not a quick look-over.
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 a Certified Professional
- AINDT-certified crack detection on booms, knuckles, pivots and chassis welds
- Major inspections to AS 2550.10 with engineering sign-off
- Defect photos, locations and clear repair recommendations
- Reports accepted by hirers, auditors and insurers
- Fast mobile response so machines are back earning sooner
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Services
NDT Australia provides these services nationwide with certified, mobile inspectors and clear, compliant reporting.