When should inspections of the crane be documented?

Documenting inspections of the crane after every inspection and maintenance activity is essential for ensuring compliance and maintaining thorough records. This practice not only fulfills legal and regulatory requirements but also serves as a critical part of an effective safety management system.

By documenting each inspection, operators can track the condition and maintenance history of the crane, which is vital for preventing accidents and ensuring that the equipment operates safely. This comprehensive record-keeping allows for proper accountability and can serve as evidence if an inspection or safety audit is required in the future. Additionally, consistent documentation helps identify trends over time regarding the crane's performance and maintenance needs, leading to improved decision-making and risk management.

The other options do not align with industry best practices: conducting inspections only during annual audits or monthly regardless of use can lead to missed issues or inadequate compliance with safety standards, and inspecting only when problems are suspected may result in dangerous situations going unnoticed for extended periods.