Aerial Lifts and Service Truck Cranes: Annual Maintenance and Service Certification Guide

Why Aerial Lift and Crane Annual Maintenance Certification Matter

Whether you operate an aerial lift, bucket truck, or service truck crane, Aerial lift and crane annual maintenance certification are not just good business practices—they’re OSHA and ANSI safety requirements. These inspections ensure that your lifting equipment performs safely and efficiently, protecting your operators, your investment, and your business reputation.

Over time, hydraulic systems, lift components, and load-handling mechanisms experience wear and stress. Regular maintenance and certified inspections detect issues early, preventing costly breakdowns and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards such as ANSI A92.2 (for aerial lifts) and ASME B30.5 / OSHA 1910.180 (for cranes and lifting equipment).

Aerial Lift Annual Maintenance Requirements

Aerial lifts—including bucket trucks, scissor lifts, and telescopic booms—require a comprehensive annual inspection performed by a qualified technician. The inspection covers:

• Hydraulic system check: hoses, cylinders, fittings, and fluid integrity.

• Electrical system test: control functions, wiring, insulation, and grounding.

• Structural integrity: booms, welds, platforms, outriggers, and mounts.

• Safety devices: interlocks, limit switches, emergency stop functions.

• Operational test: platform leveling, rotation, and lift/lower performance.

  
  

All findings should be recorded in a detailed service report, and the equipment must display a valid inspection certification decal indicating the date of completion and the next scheduled service.

Service Truck Crane Annual Certification

Truck-mounted cranes (like Auto Crane, Stellar, or Venturo models) must also undergo annual maintenance and certification under OSHA 1910.180 and ASME B30.5 standards. The annual crane inspection includes:

• Load test certification: verifies the crane’s rated lifting capacity.

• Wire rope and hook inspection: checks for wear, corrosion, or deformation.

• Hydraulic system and winch operation: ensures smooth and reliable performance.

• Safety controls and overload protection: confirms proper calibration and response.

• Mounting and stabilizer checks: ensures truck and crane frame stability under load.

Once certified, the crane receives an inspection tag or decal with the inspection date, the certifying company, and the next due date for renewal.

How Often Should You Service Your Lift or Crane?

While the annual inspection is mandatory, it’s smart to schedule preventive maintenance quarterly or semi-annually—especially for equipment that’s heavily used or exposed to harsh environments. Routine maintenance helps extend the life of your hydraulic systems, reduce downtime, and maintain resale value.

Who Can Perform Certified Inspections?

Only qualified and authorized technicians who meet ANSI and OSHA competency standards can issue an official annual certification. Certified service centers—like those authorized by major manufacturers—maintain the necessary test equipment, training, and documentation to ensure your unit meets all compliance standards.

Documentation You Should Keep

For every certified inspection or repair, maintain a file including:

• The annual inspection certificate

• Load test results (if applicable)

• Maintenance records and part replacements

• Technician’s qualifications and company credentials

These documents must be available for regulatory audits and insurance verification.

Why Trust a Certified Service Center

Choosing a certified service center ensures your equipment is serviced with OEM-approved parts and procedures. Expert technicians not only inspect but also calibrate and adjust your aerial lift or crane for peak performance. Most reputable centers also offer mobile inspections, allowing your fleet to stay compliant without losing valuable uptime.

Stay Safe. Stay Certified.

Annual maintenance and certification are your first line of defense against costly accidents, downtime, and compliance violations. Whether you own one aerial lift or an entire fleet of service trucks, scheduling certified inspections keeps your operation running safely and legally year-round.

Need an Annual Certification or Inspection?

If your aerial lift or service truck crane is due for its annual inspection, contact or visit BABCO. Our factory-trained technicians provide on-site and in-shop annual inspections, maintenance, and certification services for all major brands and models. Call our Homestead location today to schedule your inspection and keep your equipment compliant, safe, and ready for work!