Aerial lift inspection checklist: Essential tips & resources

November 18, 2025

An aerial lift inspection is more than a daily routine; it's a critical safety protocol that protects operators and ensures jobsite compliance. But a generic, one-size-fits-all checklist often falls short, creating safety gaps and operational risks. Different machines, from nimble scissor lifts to articulating boom lifts, have unique inspection points that demand specific attention. While OSHA sets the mandatory baseline for safety, leading manufacturers like Genie, JLG, and Skyjack provide model-specific guidance that is essential for conducting truly thorough checks.

This resource guide moves beyond simple paper forms. We have compiled 12 essential resources to help you build a comprehensive aerial lift inspection checklist program. Our list covers everything from official OSHA guidelines and manufacturer-provided forms to modern digital apps and hands-on training platforms. We will explore how to create a robust system that ensures every pre-use, periodic, and annual inspection is documented accurately and effectively.

Each resource listed below includes a direct link, a brief analysis of its practical application, and insights into how it fits into a larger safety strategy. Whether you're a fleet manager, a maintenance technician, or a safety director, this guide provides the tools to keep your equipment compliant, your operators safe, and your worksite productive. You will find actionable information to help you select the right combination of digital tools, official documentation, and physical tags to manage your aerial lift fleet effectively. This comprehensive approach helps ensure that your inspection process is not just a formality but a cornerstone of your operational safety culture.

1. OSHA Operator Training

Flat Earth Equipment’s OSHA Operator Training program is a premier resource for organizations that need to ground their aerial lift inspection procedures in authoritative, compliance-focused instruction. Instead of offering a generic safety course, this program centers specifically on the OSHA and ANSI standards that form the basis of any robust aerial lift inspection checklist. It delivers a comprehensive framework for both pre-use checks and formal evaluations, ensuring operators know exactly what regulators and manufacturers require.

OSHA Operator Training

What truly distinguishes this training is its origin. It’s developed by an equipment-first company, not just a training provider. This means the curriculum is infused with practical, technician-led expertise. Trainees learn not just what to check, but why they are checking it, and how to spot real-world failures before they lead to downtime or accidents. Ensuring your team is fully aware of and adheres to all safety standards is paramount, making robust regulatory compliance training a critical investment in your operational integrity.

This program is ideal for fleet managers and safety directors who want training that translates directly to the job site. The ability to pair instruction with Flat Earth’s rental MEWPs for hands-on practice provides a crucial link between theory and application.

Key Strengths & Implementation

  • Curriculum: Directly aligns with OSHA and ANSI standards, making it a reliable source for developing your internal inspection protocols.
  • Practical Focus: Emphasizes real-world equipment knowledge, helping operators identify common faults and understand the necessary corrective actions. This is invaluable for preventing minor issues from escalating.
  • Integrated Support: Because Flat Earth also provides parts, service, and rentals, the training exists within a complete support ecosystem. Operators can be trained with direct access to the machines, parts, and technicians relevant to their work.

Potential Limitations

While powerful, the offering has a few considerations. The website does not specify course formats (e.g., onsite, virtual) or certification details, requiring direct contact for clarification. Additionally, its hands-on training and technician support are likely concentrated around its Western U.S. hubs, which may limit accessibility for organizations located elsewhere.

Website: flatearthequipment.com/osha-operator-training

2. OSHA (U.S. Occupational Safety & Health Administration)

When creating any aerial lift inspection checklist, your first reference point should always be the U.S. Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA). While not a commercial product, the OSHA website serves as the ultimate authority, providing the foundational requirements that all checklists must meet to ensure legal compliance and worker safety. The platform offers detailed guidance on what constitutes a proper pre-start inspection and a thorough work-area inspection, directly aligning your internal processes with federal standards.

OSHA (U.S. Occupational Safety & Health Administration)

This free resource is indispensable for building a checklist from scratch or validating an existing one. It outlines specific items to check for Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs), from vehicle components to operational controls. While maintaining your aerial lift fleet is critical, OSHA's regulations also extend to broader site safety, including specific construction site signage requirements. The primary drawback is that OSHA provides the raw information, not a downloadable form. Users must synthesize the guidance into a practical, ready-to-use document. However, using OSHA as your primary source ensures your safety program is built on a solid, defensible foundation.

Core Features & Limitations

  • Pros:
    • Authoritative & Free: The definitive source for compliance, recognized by all regulatory bodies.
    • Comprehensive Guidance: Covers pre-use, frequent, and annual inspection criteria.
    • Clear Framework: Provides clear, list-based text that can be directly copied to build your own forms.
  • Cons:
    • Not a Template: You must manually assemble the information into a usable checklist format.
    • Broad Navigation: Finding the exact regulations can sometimes require navigating a complex site structure.

Website: https://www.osha.gov/etools/scaffolding/aerial-lifts

Understanding these federal guidelines is a cornerstone of a robust safety culture. To see how these principles apply in practice, explore our comprehensive safety resources.

3. Genie (Terex) – Inspection Forms Library

For teams operating Genie equipment, the manufacturer’s own resource library is an essential destination for creating an aerial lift inspection checklist. Genie, a Terex brand, provides official, downloadable maintenance and inspection forms tailored to their specific product lines, including boom lifts, scissor lifts, and telehandlers. This direct-from-the-source approach ensures your checklists align perfectly with the engineering and operational requirements of your machines, complementing broader OSHA standards with model-specific details.

Genie (Terex) – Inspection Forms Library

This free library is invaluable for standardizing inspections across a Genie-heavy fleet. The platform provides ready-made PDF checklists that cover pre-operation, frequent, and annual inspections, eliminating the guesswork of building forms from scratch. While these resources are excellent, it’s crucial to remember their primary limitation: they are designed for Genie equipment. If your fleet includes multiple brands, these forms will need to be supplemented or adapted to create a universal, fleet-wide solution. Always cross-reference the form with the specific machine's operator manual to ensure every critical checkpoint is covered.

Core Features & Limitations

  • Pros:
    • Manufacturer-Specific: Checklists are designed by the engineers who built the equipment.
    • Free & Accessible: Downloadable PDF forms are available at no cost.
    • Standardization: Helps create consistent inspection protocols across all Genie units in your fleet.
  • Cons:
    • Brand-Specific: Not a comprehensive solution for mixed-brand fleets.
    • Requires Cross-Referencing: Some forms are general; you must verify against the specific model’s manual.

Website: https://manuals.genielift.com/Parts%20And%20Service%20Manuals/ServInspectionForms.htm

4. JLG – Manuals and Pre-Op Inspection Guidance

Going directly to the source, JLG Industries provides a comprehensive library of operator and technical manuals essential for creating a model-specific aerial lift inspection checklist. As a leading manufacturer, their documentation offers the most accurate and detailed pre-start inspection procedures for their scissor and boom lifts. The platform is an invaluable resource for fleet managers and technicians who need to ensure their JLG equipment is inspected according to the manufacturer's exact specifications, which is a key component of OSHA compliance.

JLG’s Technical Publications portal is free to access and serves as a definitive guide for training operators on what to look for during daily walkarounds. The manuals contain step-by-step instructions and diagrams, leaving no room for ambiguity. While this information is hyper-specific to JLG models, the principles of a thorough inspection are universally applicable and can inform safety protocols across your entire fleet. This focus on manufacturer-led safety mirrors the detailed training required for other heavy equipment, such as what is outlined in our guide to forklift safety procedures. The primary challenge is navigating the large PDF manuals to find the specific inspection section, but the precision it offers is well worth the effort.

Core Features & Limitations

  • Pros:
    • Manufacturer Authority: Provides the most accurate, model-specific inspection criteria directly from the source.
    • Detailed Guidance: Includes diagrams and step-by-step procedures for both scissor and boom lifts.
    • Free Access: All technical and operator manuals are available without cost.
  • Cons:
    • Brand Specific: The information is tailored exclusively to JLG equipment and may not apply to other brands.
    • Cumbersome Navigation: Manuals are often lengthy PDFs, requiring users to search for the relevant inspection sections.

Website: https://onlineexpress.jlg.com/technical-publications/

5. Skyjack – Forms Library & ELEVATE Live

For teams operating Skyjack equipment, the manufacturer’s own resources offer an unparalleled level of specificity for your aerial lift inspection checklist. Skyjack's Form Library provides downloadable checklists for Pre-Delivery Inspections (PDI) and annual inspections, categorized by equipment type. This ensures that the checks performed align perfectly with the machine's specific components and engineering, eliminating guesswork and enhancing maintenance accuracy. The standout feature is ELEVATE Live, which uses QR codes on the machine to give operators instant, login-free access to pre-use checklists and familiarization guides directly on their mobile devices.

Skyjack – Forms Library & ELEVATE Live

This innovative QR-based approach significantly boosts the likelihood of daily inspection completion by removing common barriers like lost paperwork or the need for a separate app. While the downloadable forms are ideal for official service records, ELEVATE Live bridges the gap for daily operational safety. It’s important to note that the downloadable PDI and annual forms are distinct from the daily pre-use checklists. A comprehensive safety program will require both. Proper inspections also involve checking components like batteries and chargers, which is critical for equipment uptime and where quality remanufactured Skyjack chargers can play a key role. Skyjack’s system streamlines documentation by providing the exact forms needed for their fleet.

Core Features & Limitations

  • Pros:
    • Manufacturer-Specific: Checklists are tailored precisely to Skyjack models for maximum accuracy.
    • QR-Enabled Access: ELEVATE Live provides instant, on-machine access to pre-use guides without an app or login.
    • Free & Accessible: All forms and digital resources are available for free directly from the manufacturer.
  • Cons:
    • Distinct Form Types: Users must understand the difference between PDI/annual forms and the required daily pre-use checklists.
    • Model-Specific Focus: These resources are primarily designed for Skyjack equipment and may not be suitable for mixed fleets.

Website: https://www.skyjack.com/form-library

6. United Rentals – Operator Training and Safety Resources

For organizations looking to build a robust safety culture from the ground up, United Rentals provides a comprehensive solution that embeds the aerial lift inspection checklist into its core training programs. Instead of just offering a static form, their platform focuses on educating operators on why each check is critical. Their paid courses, available in virtual and blended formats, thoroughly cover pre-use inspection topics, ensuring your team is not just compliant but also competent. This approach is ideal for formalizing safety protocols and standardizing operator knowledge across an entire workforce.

United Rentals – Operator Training and Safety Resources

The primary value of United Rentals lies in its structured training and managed services, not in free downloadable resources. Their programs culminate in recognized certifications and wallet cards, providing tangible proof of qualification. For fleet managers, their managed maintenance programs are a key offering, helping track and perform the required annual inspections. While there are costs associated with these services, the investment helps create a well-documented, defensible safety program. The free articles on their site also serve as excellent supplemental resources to reinforce the importance of daily visual and functional checks.

Core Features & Limitations

  • Pros:
    • Nationwide Training: Offers recognized operator training with certifications valid across the country.
    • Formalized Programs: Excellent for companies needing to establish or formalize their inspection and training procedures.
    • Managed Maintenance: Provides services to ensure annual and frequent inspections are tracked and completed on time.
  • Cons:
    • Not a Free Checklist: The main resources are paid training courses and managed services, not downloadable templates.
    • Associated Costs: eLearning, certifications, and maintenance programs come at a premium.

Website: https://www.unitedrentals.com/training

7. SafetyCulture (iAuditor) – Digital Checklist Templates

For organizations ready to move beyond paper, SafetyCulture (formerly iAuditor) offers a powerful platform for digitizing your aerial lift inspection checklist. The platform provides a vast public library of pre-built templates for various MEWPs, including scissor lifts and boom lifts, which can be used immediately on a mobile device. This approach allows teams to standardize inspections, capture data in real time, and generate professional reports complete with photos, signatures, and timestamps.

SafetyCulture (iAuditor) – Digital Checklist Templates

The primary advantage of SafetyCulture is its ability to create a clear, digital audit trail for compliance purposes. The free tier, suitable for small teams of up to 10 users, allows full access to the template library and PDF report generation. This makes it an accessible entry point for modernizing safety protocols. However, effective implementation requires training users on the mobile app, and it's wise to review and customize any community-sourced templates to ensure they fully align with your specific equipment and OSHA requirements.

Core Features & Limitations

  • Pros:
    • Rapid Digitization: Quickly deploy standardized digital inspection forms across your entire team.
    • Strong Audit Trail: Captures timestamps, user signatures, and photos for robust record-keeping.
    • Generous Free Tier: The free plan for small teams provides significant functionality without initial cost.
  • Cons:
    • Requires User Adoption: The platform is only effective if technicians are trained and consistently use the app.
    • Template Quality Varies: Publicly shared templates may need customization to meet rigorous safety standards.

Website: https://safetyculture.com/checklists/aerial-lift-inspection/

8. GoCanvas – Mobile Forms for Aerial/Scissor Lift Inspections

For organizations looking to digitize their safety protocols, GoCanvas offers a powerful solution that transforms paper checklists into dynamic mobile forms. This platform is specifically designed for businesses aiming to streamline their aerial lift inspection checklist process, eliminating cumbersome paperwork and centralizing records for easy access and auditing. GoCanvas provides turnkey templates for daily, monthly, and periodic inspections that can be deployed instantly to your team's mobile devices, complete with features like photo capture and digital signatures.

GoCanvas – Mobile Forms for Aerial/Scissor Lift Inspections

The platform excels at creating a connected workflow. Completed inspections can be instantly converted into professional PDFs and automatically dispatched or saved to cloud services like Google Drive. This immediate data flow is invaluable for fleet managers who need real-time oversight of equipment status. While the service operates on a subscription model that requires a sales consultation for pricing, its ability to customize templates for specific models or site requirements makes it a scalable option for growing operations. The main consideration is the initial setup, which may involve some configuration and user training to fully leverage its capabilities.

Core Features & Limitations

  • Pros:
    • Digital Transformation: Reduces paper use and centralizes all inspection records for an entire fleet.
    • Highly Customizable: Templates can be easily modified to fit specific aerial lift models and job site needs.
    • Integrated Workflow: Supports digital signatures, photo attachments, and integrations with other business software.
  • Cons:
    • Subscription-Based: Requires a paid subscription after the initial trial, with pricing available upon request.
    • Implementation Curve: May require some initial setup and training for team members to adopt the system effectively.

Website: https://www.gocanvas.com/mobile-forms-apps/18206-Aerial-Work-Platforms-Daily-Aerial-Lift-Inspection-Checklist

9. J. J. Keller – Aerial Lift Pre-Use Inspection Forms (Printed)

For teams that prioritize a straightforward, physical record-keeping system, J. J. Keller offers a reliable, paper-based solution. Their aerial lift inspection checklist comes in printed pads, making it easy for operators to grab a form and conduct their pre-use checks on the shop floor or in the field. This traditional approach is perfect for environments where digital devices are impractical or for companies that prefer a tangible, clipboard-ready paper trail for compliance documentation.

J. J. Keller – Aerial Lift Pre-Use Inspection Forms (Printed)

The forms are designed for weekly layouts and cover the essential criteria for both scissor and boom lifts, ensuring a thorough pre-start inspection. Beyond just providing forms, J. J. Keller is a well-established Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) vendor, offering a vast catalog of related safety products and online training modules. This allows you to source your checklists and operator training materials from a single, trusted provider with US-based fulfillment and support. The primary tradeoff is the manual effort required; paper forms must be filed, stored, and manually digitized if an electronic archive is needed.

Core Features & Limitations

  • Pros:
    • Simple & Compliant: Provides a ready-to-use, tangible paper trail that is ideal for clipboards and job sites.
    • Trusted EHS Brand: Backed by a reputable company with extensive product support and US-based fulfillment.
    • Comprehensive Offerings: Integrates with a larger catalog of safety training and compliance products.
  • Cons:
    • Manual Record-Keeping: Paper pads require manual filing and are less searchable than digital records.
    • No Digital Archive: Physical forms must be scanned or manually entered to create a digital backup.

Website: https://www.jjkeller.com/shop/aerial-lift-pre-use-inspection-checklist

10. Brady (Scafftag) – Inspection Tag Systems

Beyond the checklist document itself, a crucial part of the inspection process is communicating the equipment's status at the point of use. Brady's Scafftag system excels at this, providing durable, highly visible tag holders and inserts that clearly display whether a machine has passed its aerial lift inspection checklist and is safe to operate. While originally designed for scaffolding, these weatherproof systems are widely adapted for MEWPs, offering an immediate "OK/Do Not Use" visual cue for operators.

Brady (Scafftag) – Inspection Tag Systems

The system works by placing a detailed inspection record insert inside a permanent, rugged holder attached directly to the lift. This physical record-keeping solution is ideal for harsh environments where digital devices might fail. It ensures that the most recent inspection data is always with the equipment, supporting both OSHA compliance and on-the-ground safety decisions. While the tags are not pre-printed with MEWP-specific items, their customizable inserts allow fleet managers to align the physical tag with their specific digital or paper checklists, bridging the gap between documentation and practical application.

Core Features & Limitations

  • Pros:
    • Highly Visible Status: Improves point-of-use safety by making the equipment's status immediately clear.
    • Rugged & Weatherproof: The tag holders and inserts are designed to withstand tough job site conditions.
    • Supports Compliance: Provides a physical record of inspection directly on the machine, aiding accountability.
  • Cons:
    • Generic Focus: The system is not specifically designed for aerial lifts, requiring some adaptation.
    • Manual System: It is a physical, manual tracking system that doesn't integrate with digital fleet management software.

Website: https://www.bradyid.com/scaffold-inspection-tags/scafftag-tag-holder-pid-scaf-sth146

11. Crane Institute of America (Store) – Aerial Lift Annual/Periodic Inspection Books

For formal, in-depth documentation, the Crane Institute of America offers printed inspection books designed specifically for annual and periodic aerial lift inspections. These multi-page checklists go far beyond a simple pre-use check, providing a structured format for a comprehensive mechanical and structural review. The forms are tailored for either vehicle-mounted or boom-supported aerial lifts, ensuring the inspection criteria are relevant to the specific equipment type.

Crane Institute of America (Store) – Aerial Lift Annual/Periodic Inspection Books

These card-stock books serve as a physical, official record of the inspection, which is ideal for compliance and long-term maintenance tracking. Each checklist section includes relevant code references, helping technicians connect their findings directly to safety standards. While this aerial lift inspection checklist is incredibly thorough, its primary limitation is its physical format. The paper-based system requires manual data entry or scanning to integrate with digital record-keeping software, and businesses must account for shipping time when ordering. However, for creating a durable, official paper trail for major inspections, this is an excellent, purpose-built solution.

Core Features & Limitations

  • Pros:
    • Purpose-Built for Formal Inspections: Designed specifically for detailed annual/periodic checks, not just daily walkarounds.
    • Includes Code References: Helps inspectors cite specific regulations related to deficiencies.
    • Durable Format: Printed on card stock, creating a lasting physical record for compliance audits.
  • Cons:
    • Physical Format Only: Requires manual effort to digitize for modern record-keeping systems.
    • Shipping Lead Time: Not an instant download; requires planning to order and receive the books.

Website: https://store.craneinstitute.com/products/inspection-checklist-vehicle-mounted-aerial-lift-annual-periodic

12. XpressTags – Aerial/Scissor Lift Inspection Tags (Daily Records)

While digital checklists are efficient, a physical tagging system provides an immediate, at-a-glance status of a machine's readiness. XpressTags specializes in durable, pre-printed aerial lift inspection checklist tags designed for daily use on scissor lifts and other equipment. These two-sided tags offer a simple, effective way to confirm that a pre-use inspection has been completed, signed off, and documented directly on the vehicle. This approach enhances accountability and prevents operators from using equipment that has not been cleared for the day.

XpressTags – Aerial/Scissor Lift Inspection Tags (Daily Records)

The platform is designed for fleet managers who need a cost-effective, scalable solution for tracking daily inspections across numerous assets. With options for different material thicknesses and reinforced eyelets, these tags are built to withstand tough job site conditions. While the tag itself is not a substitute for a detailed inspection form, it serves as a critical final-step verification tool. It provides a clear visual cue to supervisors and operators that safety protocols are being followed. For best results, these tags should be integrated into a broader system where detailed inspection forms are filed separately for comprehensive record-keeping.

Core Features & Limitations

  • Pros:
    • Quick Visual Confirmation: Allows anyone to see if a machine has passed its daily inspection without checking logs.
    • Durable & Inexpensive: Cost-effective per-tag pricing with volume discounts makes it ideal for large fleet rollouts.
    • Simple Implementation: Easy to introduce into existing safety workflows without extensive training.
  • Cons:
    • Not a Full Checklist: The tag only records completion; it must be paired with a detailed inspection form.
    • Requires Dual Record-Keeping: Physical tags need a corresponding digital or paper record to store inspection details.

Website: https://www.xpresstags.com/scissor-lift-inspection-forklift-inspection-tag/sku-tg-2172

Aerial Lift Inspection Checklist — 12-Resource Comparison

Solution Core features & USPs (✨) UX / Quality (★ 🏆) Value / Price (💰) Best for (👥)
OSHA Operator Training (Flat Earth Equipment) ✨ OSHA/ANSI MEWP curriculum; technician‑led; hands‑on rental access; parts + uptime focus ★★★★★ · 🏆 Practical, compliance‑ready, field‑oriented 💰 Paid / quote; transparent pricing; rapid fulfillment 👥 Contractors, fleet managers, facilities (Western U.S.)
OSHA (U.S. Occupational Safety & Health Administration) ✨ Official guidance; pre‑start & work‑area inspection lists; standards refs ★★★★★ · 🏆 Authoritative source; regulator‑grade 💰 Free; guidance requires assembly into checklists 👥 Safety pros, compliance teams
Genie (Terex) – Inspection Forms Library ✨ Official Genie inspection & maintenance forms; manuals & pre‑op guidance ★★★★ · 🏆 Equipment‑specific, manufacturer‑formatted 💰 Free downloads; verify model fitment 👥 Genie fleet owners, service techs
JLG – Manuals and Pre‑Op Inspection Guidance ✨ Operator manuals, step‑by‑step pre‑op checks, instructional videos ★★★★ · 🏆 Practical videos; thorough but bulky PDFs 💰 Free; time to locate sections 👥 JLG operators, trainers
Skyjack – Forms Library & ELEVATE Live ✨ PDI & annual checklists; QR‑enabled ELEVATE Live for on‑machine access ★★★★ · 🏆 QR at machine improves completion rates 💰 Free tools; some content QR‑only 👥 Skyjack users, mobile operators
United Rentals – Operator Training & Safety Resources ✨ Paid courses (virtual/blended); managed maintenance programs; certificates ★★★★ · 🏆 Nationwide, recognized creds & wallet cards 💰 Paid training; pricing varies 👥 Organizations needing formal training & managed services
SafetyCulture (iAuditor) – Digital Checklist Templates ✨ Large editable template library; mobile app; PDF export & audit trail ★★★★ · 🏆 Strong auditability; app adoption required 💰 Free tier (≤10 users); subscriptions for pro features 👥 Teams digitizing inspections
GoCanvas – Mobile Forms for Aerial/Scissor Lift Inspections ✨ Turnkey mobile forms; integrations, dispatching, signatures ★★★★ · 🏆 Good for centralized records; needs setup 💰 Subscription after trial; contact sales 👥 Large fleets, operations needing integrations
J. J. Keller – Printed Pre‑Use Inspection Forms ✨ Clipboard‑ready printed pads; related online modules; US fulfillment ★★★ · 🏆 Simple, trusted paper option 💰 Paid (product + shipping); physical fulfillment 👥 Field crews preferring paper records
Brady (Scafftag) – Inspection Tag Systems ✨ Weatherproof tag holders & inserts; rugged point‑of‑use status ★★★ · 🏆 Highly visible, durable for harsh sites 💰 Paid; durable materials (long life) 👥 Sites needing visible equipment status
Crane Institute of America – Annual/Periodic Inspection Books ✨ Multi‑page annual/periodic forms with code references; card‑stock ★★★★ · 🏆 Purpose‑built for formal inspections 💰 Paid; shipping lead time 👥 Inspectors, formal periodic inspection programs
XpressTags – Aerial/Scissor Lift Inspection Tags ✨ Preprinted two‑sided durable tags; volume discounts; multiple materials ★★★ · 🏆 Low‑cost visual confirmation 💰 Low per‑tag cost; bulk pricing tiers 👥 Large fleets, rental yards needing cheap visual records

From Checklist to Action: Keeping Your Fleet Ready and Reliable

Navigating the world of aerial lift safety can feel complex, but as we've explored, the foundation is remarkably straightforward: consistent, thorough inspections. An effective aerial lift inspection checklist is not just a piece of paper or a digital form; it's the critical first step in a proactive safety culture that protects operators, prevents costly downtime, and ensures OSHA compliance. The right tool transforms this daily task from a chore into a powerful data-gathering opportunity.

Throughout this guide, we've dissected a wide array of resources, from the official OSHA guidelines and manufacturer-specific forms provided by industry giants like Genie, JLG, and Skyjack, to innovative digital solutions from SafetyCulture and GoCanvas. We also covered the tangible, on-machine systems from Brady, J. J. Keller, and XpressTags that offer immediate visual confirmation of a machine's status. Each tool serves a unique purpose in the ecosystem of fleet management.

Key Takeaways for Your Inspection Program

The most crucial insight is that no single solution fits every operation. Your choice depends on your fleet's size, the technical savvy of your team, and your documentation requirements.

  • For large, multi-site operations: Digital platforms like SafetyCulture (iAuditor) or GoCanvas offer unparalleled advantages. They streamline data collection, provide real-time visibility into your fleet's condition, and create a centralized, searchable record for compliance audits.
  • For brand-loyal fleets: Sticking with manufacturer-provided resources from Genie, JLG, or Skyjack is often the most direct path. These forms are designed specifically for your equipment, ensuring no critical, model-specific check is missed.
  • For high-turnover or mixed-equipment environments: Physical tag systems from Brady (Scafftag) or XpressTags are incredibly effective. They provide a clear, at-a-glance status report on the machine itself, which is vital where multiple operators may use the same lift in a single day.
  • For formal, periodic inspections: Specialized logbooks from providers like the Crane Institute of America offer a structured, comprehensive format for annual inspections, creating a durable and official record of a machine's long-term health.

Turning Inspection into Action: The Next Step

Ultimately, the value of any aerial lift inspection checklist lies in what you do with the information it provides. Identifying a frayed hydraulic hose, a non-responsive controller, or a leaking cylinder is only half the battle. The other half is having a clear, immediate plan to address these faults, which means having a reliable partner for parts, support, and even short-term rental equipment.

A checklist identifies the problem; a strong operational plan solves it. This is where the process moves from documentation to action. When an aerial lift is tagged out of service, the clock starts ticking on project delays and lost productivity. Having a trusted supplier who can quickly provide the correct replacement part and offer technical guidance is what keeps your fleet reliable and your projects on schedule. Your inspection process is only as strong as your ability to act on its findings.


When your aerial lift inspection checklist uncovers an issue, you need a partner that can deliver the right part, right now. Flat Earth Equipment specializes in providing technician-led support and a vast inventory of precision-fit parts for Genie, JLG, Skyjack, and more to get your machine back in service fast. Don't let a failed inspection grind your operations to a halt; visit Flat Earth Equipment to find the components and expertise you need to keep your fleet safe and productive.

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