Safety checklist — Aerial lift inspection
Pre-use inspection of boom lift or aerial work platform. Based on Québec's Construction Safety Code (CSTC) and CNESST standards.
Exterior walk-around
17 items- ✓
Inspect tires — inflation, wear, cuts (or tracks if applicable)
- ✓
Check hydraulic hoses and fittings — no leaks
- ✓
Inspect boom sections — cracks, deformations, pins
- ✓
Check platform / basket condition — floor, guardrails, access gate
- ✓
Check fluid levels: hydraulic, engine, fuel, battery (if electric)
- ✓
Inspect outriggers / stabilizer pads — no deformation, correct locking
- ✓
Check capacity stickers and structural-inspection label if a MEWPCritical
ℹ️ CSTC 2.15.16: B354.7 structural inspection at 10 years, then every 5 years — not annual. Daily/frequent checks: 2.15.12 / manufacturer.
- ✓
Fire extinguisher present and charge verified
- ✓
Check overload / tilt detection devices if equipped
- ✓
If a MEWP: operator trained for this type and group + site familiarizationCritical
ℹ️ CSTC 2.15.17. Does not apply to a vehicle-mounted aerial device (2.15.13).
- ✓
Harness if multidirectional (platform off the chassis) — CSTC 2.15.12 (6)Critical
ℹ️ 2.15.12 (6): harness only if the platform can move horizontally off the chassis. Not a rule for every boom or scissor lift.
- ✓
Test ground controls — all movements
- ✓
Test platform controls — raise, lower, swing, drive
- ✓
Emergency descent / e-stop checked per manufacturer (CSTC 2.15.12)Critical
ℹ️ 2.15.12 (1): emergency stop and anti-drop device. Ground descent follows the manufacturer, not a named article.
- ✓
Test horn and travel alarm
- ✓
Check emergency stop button operation (ground and platform)
- ✓
Check platform auto-leveling system operation
Report / Sign-off
5 items- ✓
Record hourmeter reading
- ✓
Log any deficiency in the inspection register
- ✓
Report any major deficiency to supervisor immediatelyCritical
- ✓
Apply lockout tag if unsafeCritical
- ✓
Sign the inspection form
22 verification items — use this checklist on-site with the app
Use on-site — freePDF reports, history and team management in the app
For information only — this is not legal advice. OK Sécurité is an independent company with no affiliation to the CNESST: we are not mandated, endorsed or certified by it. Completing a checklist here does not by itself establish your compliance — your exact obligations depend on your job site and your prevention program. Where there is any discrepancy, the official text published by Légis Québec or the CNESST prevails.
More checklists — Equipment Inspections
More safety checklists
Related official rule
Why daily inspection — Aerial lift
Aerial lifts are involved in numerous fall and tip-over incidents. A vehicle-mounted boom follows CSTC 2.15.13 (C225 / A92.2). A MEWP follows 2.15.16–2.15.17 (B354.6 / B354.7). The daily documented check in 2.15.1 e) applies to lifting apparatus. Operators must check ground and platform controls, safety devices, base stability, and structural component condition.
A harness is required by CSTC 2.15.12 (6) only if the platform can move horizontally off the chassis — not for every boom or scissor lift. Climbing guardrails or extending reach is prohibited (2.15.12 (5)). Wind and power-line proximity must be assessed before each use.
Run the checklist before every use, not only at the start of the shift: an impact, a move, or a new location requires a fresh inspection. Photograph defects (tires, guardrails, controls) and attach them to the report.
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