Which of the following components must be checked during a crane pre-operational inspection?

• A. The hook and latch
• B. Wire rope or chain for wear or deformation
• C. Brakes and controls
• D. All of the above

Answer: (D)

During a crane pre-operational inspection, the goal is to verify that everything needed for safe lifting is in proper condition. The hook and latch must be checked to ensure the hook isn’t cracked, bent, or worn and that the latch closes reliably to prevent the load from slipping. The wire rope or chain should be examined for wear, broken strands, corrosion, kinks, or deformation that could fail under load. Brakes and controls need to function correctly; brakes should hold the load without slipping, and controls should respond smoothly with no sticking, and the emergency stop and limit switches should operate as designed. Each of these areas directly affects safe operation, so all of them must be checked during a pre-operational inspection. If any issue is found, the crane should not be used until it’s repaired and verified safe.