Before operating any aerial lift, ANSI standards require operators to perform a pre-use inspection to verify the equipment is safe and ready for operation. These inspections help identify mechanical issues, damaged components, safety hazards, and maintenance concerns before they become serious problems. Proper inspections not only improve workplace safety but also help companies remain compliant with ANSI standards and manufacturer recommendations.
ANSI pre-use inspections are designed to protect operators, pedestrians, and equipment. A thorough inspection performed before each shift can help identify issues that may affect safe operation and reduce the likelihood of accidents, equipment downtime, and costly repairs.
Benefits of daily inspections include:
• Improved workplace safety
• Early detection of equipment problems
• Reduced downtime and repair costs
• Compliance with ANSI standards
• Better maintenance tracking
• Increased equipment reliability
At Access Lift Equipment, we encourage operators to develop consistent inspection procedures and maintain accurate records for every machine in their fleet.
Every aerial lift inspection should include both a visual inspection and a functional test. While requirements may vary slightly by manufacturer, most ANSI-compliant inspections include the following categories:
Any deficiencies should be reported and corrected before the lift is placed into service.
• Guardrails
• Platform gates
• Scissor stack or boom structure
• Welds and mounting points
• Tire condition
• Lug nuts
• Wheel assemblies
• Hydraulic hoses
• Fittings
• Cylinders
• Fluid leaks
• Battery condition
• Wiring
• Electrical connections
• Warning alarms
• Emergency stop buttons
• Tilt alarms
• Descent alarms
• Safety interlocks
• Ground controls
• Platform controls
• Steering functions
• Drive functions
Many operators focus on obvious damage but overlook smaller issues that can eventually lead to equipment failures.
Pay special attention to:
• Loose electrical connections
• Hydraulic seepage
• Worn control switches
• Damaged decals and warning labels
• Missing pins or retaining clips
• Platform gate latches
• Battery corrosion
These items may seem minor but can create significant safety concerns if ignored.
ANSI standards require operators to document inspections, but maintaining records for longer periods provides valuable maintenance and operational benefits.
Inspection records help companies:
• Track recurring equipment issues
• Identify maintenance trends
• Monitor component wear
• Improve fleet management
• Demonstrate compliance during audits
Many companies maintain inspection records for several months or longer to help identify developing problems before they become major repairs.
Inspection checklists create consistency across operators and help ensure important items are not overlooked.
A documented checklist can:
• Standardize inspection procedures
• Improve operator accountability
• Reduce missed inspection items
• Support maintenance planning
• Provide documentation after incidents
A simple checklist is one of the most effective tools for improving aerial lift safety.
At Access Lift Equipment, safety doesn’t stop when a machine arrives on our lot—it continues right up until the day it leaves for your jobsite.
Whether you’re purchasing a new aerial lift or investing in a quality pre-owned machine, every lift we sell undergoes a thorough inspection process before delivery. Our team carefully evaluates key operating systems, safety devices, controls, structural components, and overall machine condition to help ensure the equipment is ready for service when it arrives.
We believe our customers deserve confidence in the equipment they purchase. That’s why we take the extra step of verifying that each machine meets our standards before it leaves our facility.
When you purchase from Access Lift Equipment, you’re not simply buying a piece of equipment—you’re partnering with a team that understands the importance of reliability, safety, and uptime. Our goal is to provide equipment you can put to work with confidence from day one.
Because when your crew steps onto a lift, peace of mind matters.
Yes. ANSI standards require operators to perform inspections before operating the equipment.
Yes. Many companies customize their inspection forms to include ANSI requirements along with equipment-specific items.
The machine should be removed from service until the issue is evaluated and repaired.
The operator using the equipment is generally responsible for performing the inspection before use.
Yes. Rental equipment must be inspected before operation just like owned equipment.
Whether you’re purchasing equipment, managing a rental fleet, or simply trying to ensure your operation remains compliant with current ANSI standards, our team is here to help.
At Access Lift Equipment, we work with contractors, facility managers, maintenance teams, and equipment owners every day to answer questions about inspections, operator responsibilities, equipment condition, and aerial lift safety requirements.
If you’re unsure about ANSI compliance, need guidance on pre-use inspections, or are looking for reliable aerial lift equipment backed by experienced professionals, contact our team today.
Pennsylvania: 717-709-9460
California: 619-443-0644
Or use our contact form to speak with an aerial lift specialist.
Safety starts with the right equipment—and the right information.
