Mobile Crane Setup and Ground Bearing Verification

Pre-lift inspection template for verifying mobile crane setup, outrigger pad loading, cribbing, and ground/soil bearing capacity before lifting operations begin.

Lift Setup Verification

• Lift plan reviewed and crane configuration matches the approved setup
  Verify boom length, counterweight, radius, load chart assumptions, and planned lift path match the approved lift plan.
• Crane positioned on designated setup location
  Confirm the crane is set in the intended location with adequate clearance for rotation, boom movement, and load travel.
• Overhead hazards and power-line clearance verified
  Confirm the setup location maintains required clearance from overhead power lines and other overhead obstructions.
• Ground conditions visually assessed by competent person
  Document whether the surface is level, stable, and free from voids, soft spots, fill, washout, or other instability indicators.

Ground Bearing Capacity

• Soil or surface bearing capacity verified for expected outrigger loads
  Record the assessed or engineered bearing capacity and confirm it is adequate for the maximum anticipated outrigger reaction.
• Ground is free of voids, trenches, basements, or uncompacted backfill
  Verify there are no hidden subsurface hazards that could compromise crane stability under load.
• Surface settlement or rutting observed during setup
  Check for visible sinking, cracking, heaving, or rutting after positioning and before lifting begins.
• Drainage and moisture conditions acceptable for crane support
  Confirm the area is not saturated, flooded, or undermined by runoff in a way that reduces bearing capacity.

Outriggers, Pads, and Cribbing

• Outriggers fully extended and locked in the required position
  Verify all outriggers are deployed per manufacturer instructions and secured before any lift is attempted.
• Outrigger pads or mats sized appropriately for the load
  Confirm pad or mat size is suitable for the expected outrigger reaction and ground conditions.
• Pads centered and fully seated on stable support
  Verify each pad is level, centered, and in full contact with the support surface without edge loading.
• Cribbing is sound, level, and properly stacked
  Inspect cribbing for uniform material, stable stacking pattern, and absence of cracks, splits, or shifting.
• No improvised materials used for support
  Confirm that bricks, blocks, loose fill, or other non-approved materials are not being used in place of proper mats or cribbing.

Controls, Documentation, and Sign-Off

• Setup verified by competent person or designated inspector
  Confirm the person completing the inspection is authorized and competent to evaluate crane setup and ground conditions.
• Deficiencies documented with corrective actions assigned
  Record all deficiencies, the required corrective action, and the person responsible for resolution before the lift proceeds.
• Photos captured of crane setup and outrigger support points
  Attach photos showing crane position, outrigger pads, cribbing, and any ground support measures used.
• Inspection completed and approved for lift start
  Final confirmation that the crane setup, ground bearing, and outrigger support conditions are acceptable to begin lifting operations.