Before resuming a lift after power restoration, what is required?

• A. Inspect the crane for safety
• B. Resume immediately
• C. Inspect only the operator
• D. Notify clients

Answer: (A)

Power returning to a crane can mask or reveal issues that weren’t apparent before the interruption, so the crucial step is a safety inspection before resuming any lift. This ensures all systems are ready to operate and that no faults have developed during the power loss. Start with a thorough visual and functional check: inspect for any obvious damage or misalignment to the structure, outriggers, hooks, chains or ropes, and ensure all guardrails and access points are secure. Verify electrical and control systems are intact—look for damaged wiring, loose connections, or signs of arcing, and confirm safety devices like emergency stops, interlocks, and limit switches reset and respond correctly. Check for leaks, overheating, unusual sounds, or fluid loss in hydraulic or pneumatic components, and ensure brakes and load-holding devices function properly. Confirm the area is safe: solid, level ground for outriggers, clear of obstructions, and with communications in place for a spotter if needed. Finally, perform a controlled, small movement to test that controls, indicators, and alarms respond as expected and that the load chart applies to the current configuration. Only after these steps should you resume lifting to avoid unexpected crane behavior or unsafe loads. Not taking these precautions or focusing only on personnel would miss critical equipment and system faults that power restoration can reveal.