Crane Inspections in Thanet, Kent | EIS
Local Service Hub
Cranes are among the most safety-critical items of lifting equipment found on construction sites, in ports, and across heavy industry. The forces involved in crane operations mean that any undetected defect can have catastrophic consequences. Thorough examinations verify that every structural, mechanical, and safety system is functioning within safe parameters.
Thanet encompasses the coastal towns of Margate, Ramsgate, and Broadstairs on Kent's north-east tip. The area's economy includes port operations at Ramsgate, a growing creative and tourism sector, and local manufacturing. The former Manston Airport site is subject to redevelopment proposals that could significantly increase industrial activity in the area. Our Engineer Surveyors provide crane inspections to businesses throughout Thanet and nearby areas including Margate, Ramsgate, Broadstairs.
What We Inspect in Thanet
- Tower cranes
- Mobile cranes
- Crawler cranes
- Overhead travelling cranes
- Gantry cranes
- Jib cranes (wall-mounted and free-standing)
- Loader cranes (lorry-mounted)
- Mini cranes and spider cranes
Crane thorough examinations assess structural integrity of the boom, jib, and mast sections. Wire rope condition is checked for broken strands, corrosion, and distortion. Hook blocks, safety catches, and load indicators are tested. Slew rings, bearings, and outrigger systems are inspected for wear. Limit switches, overload protection, and emergency stop systems are verified as operational.
Common Issues Identified During Inspections
Our Engineer Surveyors regularly identify the following types of defects during crane inspections:
- Wire rope deterioration — broken strands, birdcaging, or corrosion
- Hydraulic hose wear, chafing, and oil leaks
- Structural cracking at boom weld joints
- Limit switch or anti-two-block device malfunction
- Outrigger pad cracking or deformation
- Slew ring bearing wear beyond tolerance
Industries We Support in Thanet
Thanet's local economy includes port operations (ramsgate), tourism and hospitality, manufacturing, and construction — sectors where crane inspections are regularly required to maintain legal compliance and workplace safety.
Across Kent, Construction and logistics dominate demand for lifting equipment inspections across Kent. The Thames Gateway development programme continues to drive building activity in the north of the county, while cross-Channel freight operations sustain a large fleet of material handling equipment along the M20 corridor. Manufacturing, food processing, and agricultural operations across the county's rural areas also generate steady inspection demand.
Local Coverage Areas
We provide crane inspections to businesses at and around Ramsgate Port, Manston Business Park, Thanet Reach Business Park, as well as across the wider Thanet area.
Inspection Frequency and Legal Requirements
Under LOLER Regulation 9, cranes must be thoroughly examined at least every 12 months. Cranes used for lifting persons must be examined every 6 months. After installation, erection, or any assembly that could affect safety, a crane must be thoroughly examined before being put into service. The competent person must also assess the adequacy of the crane's installation including ground conditions and proximity hazards.
Required Inspection Interval
Every 12 months (every 6 months if used for lifting persons); also after each erection or assembly
Covering Thanet and Kent
Kent businesses often require flexible scheduling to accommodate the county's spread-out geography, from the Thames Estuary in the north to the Romney Marsh in the south. Our local Engineer Surveyors operate across the entire county, reducing travel time and enabling responsive service.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often do cranes need a thorough examination?
Cranes require thorough examination at least every 12 months under LOLER. If the crane is used to lift people, the interval reduces to 6 months. A thorough examination is also required after every installation, erection, or assembly at a new location.
Can a crane be used if the examination certificate has expired?
No. Operating a crane beyond its thorough examination due date is a breach of LOLER and a criminal offence. The crane must be taken out of service immediately until a valid report of thorough examination has been issued by a competent person.
Who is responsible for arranging crane inspections?
The duty holder — typically the employer or the person who controls the use of the crane — is legally responsible for ensuring thorough examinations are carried out on time. This responsibility cannot be delegated to the crane operator.
Do you cover all of Kent including rural areas?
Yes. Our Engineer Surveyors are based across Kent and cover the entire county from the Thames Estuary towns in the north through to the Romney Marsh in the south. We regularly attend sites in rural locations, farms, and small workshops as well as major industrial estates and construction sites.
Crane Inspections in Kent
All Crane Inspections
Nearby Crane Inspections Areas
Other Inspections in Thanet
Crane Inspections in Other Areas
Book an Inspection in Thanet
Contact us to arrange a Thorough Examination in Thanet and ensure your equipment remains compliant and safe.
Request Inspection Quote