Offshore cranes inspections

Lifting equipment on barges, ships, rigs and platforms stays operational and audit-ready with structured annual inspections. Control Union conducts crane surveys that verify structural integrity, protect personnel and prevent unplanned downtime across offshore operations.

    Compliance and safety with offshore cranes

    Control Union follows API Recommended Practice 2D, the industry-leading standard for offshore crane inspection, so every survey meets the benchmarks auditors and regulators expect.
    Personnel lifting operations fall within the scope of LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations) legislation, confirming that crane condition satisfies legal safety requirements. These recognised frameworks translate into smoother audits, fewer compliance gaps and stronger evidence of due diligence for crane owners and operators.

    Control Union

    Control, insight and certainty for offshore cranes

    Control Union
    1.

    Fully independent assessments

    Control Union operates independently from insurers and maintenance contractors. This delivers 100% objective results that hold up under third-party scrutiny.

    2.

    Tablet-based digital reporting

    Inspectors capture findings digitally during the site visit using tablet based system. Reporting is prepared more efficiently, supporting timely follow up actions.

    3.

    DROPS survey in a single mobilisation

    Combine the crane survey with a Dropped Objects Prevention Scheme (DROPS) survey. One visit covers two critical scope areas and reduces offshore logistics.

    4.

    Central asset management via portal

    A dedicated portal tracks crane inventories, certificates and inspection schedules. Operations teams maintain full oversight without chasing paperwork across sites.

    5.

    Non-destructive testing for hidden defects

    Techniques such as magnetic particle inspection (MPI) and eddy current inspection detect surface defects in load-bearing components without damaging the asset.

    How we work

    Towards control, insight, and certainty

    The strength lies in the combination of inspection expertise, advanced data systems, and global practical experience.

    Step 1

    Define the inspection scope against specific crane manufacturer requirements and applicable operator or owner standards before mobilisation.

    Step 2

    Inspect structural, electrical and hydraulic systems on site, applying magnetic particle inspection where load-bearing components require defect verification.

    Step 3

    Deliver a tablet-based digital inspection report, with findings compiled, defect status and recommended actions.

    The proof to your promise

    Compliance and safety

    Control Union reduces mobilisation costs, avoids equipment teardown and fits inspections around operational schedules for offshore crane operators.

    • Multi-skilled, certified inspectors cover multiple disciplines in one deployment, eliminating the need for additional specialists and cutting crew flights offshore.

    • Phased array ultrasonic testing (PAUT) scans slew bearing rings and studs in situ, removing the costly requirement for component disassembly.

    • Emergency callouts and weekend scheduling help align crane inspections with operational windows, supporting operations continuity while minimising disruption.

    Control Union
    Every structural, electrical and hydraulic system is assessed thoroughly, because leaving any element unchecked puts offshore crane integrity and crew safety at risk.
    Koen Backer van Ommeren – Control Union
    The proof to your promise

    Frequently asked questions

    Offshore crane inspections apply to cranes on barges, ships, rigs and platforms across the energy and maritime sectors, including drilling and well servicing structures.

    Annual inspections apply to standard offshore crane operations. Cranes used for personnel lifting require a six-monthly inspection cycle under LOLER legislation.

    The report provides accurate assessments of crane condition, identifies defects and states priority actions to maintain safety and reliability of offshore crane operations.

    Get in touch with our experts

    Looking to learn more about our inspection capabilities? Submit the form below and we’ll reach out promptly.

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    Global coverage

    Control Union drives global trade forward. As an international and independent partner, we support traders, producers, brands, and logistics service providers in managing risk and safeguarding quality at every step of the supply chain.

    From raw material to final product, from processes and systems to installations, we provide insight, assurance, and trust in every link of the chain. We do this through inspections and audits, certification and verification, laboratory analyses, and pest management.

    Our global network of experts are embedded in international supply chains across dozens of sectors, including agriculture, food & feed, energy & biofuels, forestry, construction & infrastructure, textiles, maritime, and on- and offshore.

    Together, we build future-proof supply chains and confidence in global trade!

    105
    +
    Years of experience
    275
    +
    Offices and laboratories in 80 countries
    6000
    +
    Dedicated colleagues