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Other pre-use check apps record that an inspection happened. craneIQ Guard makes sure one actually does.
The crane is physically locked until a passing inspection is recorded. Skipping the check is not a policy breach — it is impossible.
Overview
Existing pre-use check apps are compliance recording tools. They digitise the paper checklist, timestamp it, and store the evidence. But if an operator skips the check or waves through a defect, the crane can still be used. The app records that it happened — it doesn't stop it happening. craneIQ Guard is a safety enforcement system. Operators tap their phone on an NFC tag mounted on the crane, complete a guided inspection, and the crane only unlocks if every check passes. If training has expired, if the operator isn't assigned to that crane, if an engineer has placed a lockout, or if any inspection item fails — the crane stays locked. It sits alongside your existing controls. Nothing is replaced. The interlock wires in series with the existing E-stop chain, which means Guard can only inhibit operation — it can never cause unintended motion. Commissions in a single shift on any overhead crane, any manufacturer.
What makes Guard different
| Capability |
Existing check apps |
craneIQ Guard |
| Records the check happened | Yes | Yes |
| Stops the crane if check is skipped | No | Yes |
| Stops the crane if check fails | No | Yes |
| Blocks untrained operators | No | Yes |
| Enforces engineer lockout/tagout | No | Yes |
| Full LOLER audit trail | Yes | Yes |
How it works — operator journey
01 — Sign in
Open the app
Operator logs in with their credentials. Training certifications are checked automatically at this point.
02 — Tap
NFC tag on crane
A single factory-locked NFC tag on the pendant identifies the crane. Three gates checked: lockout status, operator assignment, valid certifications.
03 — Inspect
Complete checklist
Guided inspection covers all statutory items. Photos and voice notes can be attached. Defects require a photo — no defect without evidence.
04 — Unlock
Crane releases
If every check passes the app sends a signed unlock command. The crane acknowledges, the interlock releases. If any check fails, the crane stays locked and a defect ticket is raised.
Core features
- Hard enforcement — crane locked until check passes
The interlock wires in series with the existing E-stop chain. The crane is physically prevented from operating until a passing inspection is recorded. Skipping is impossible.
- Training verification — expired certs block unlock
Each crane requires specific certifications. Expired or missing training blocks the unlock automatically — no manual gatekeeping, no relying on supervisors to remember.
- Engineer lockout/tagout — honoured by the crane itself
Engineers isolate a crane from the admin console. Only the issuer or a supervisor can clear. The lockout is honoured by the crane — not just displayed in the app.
- Automatic defect tickets with photo evidence
A failed inspection raises a ticket with photos, voice notes and operator context. Routed to supervisors and maintenance. Other operators scanning the same crane see the open defect.
- Offline operation — no network required to inspect
Inspections can be completed without connectivity. The signed submission queues locally and delivers when connectivity returns. The crane stays locked until it does — no optimistic unlock.
- Operator assignments — crane-specific access control
Site managers assign operators to specific cranes. Scanning a crane outside the assignment is rejected — even with valid training.
- Configurable checklists per crane or company
Standard LOLER template works out of the box. Customise items, requirements, which need photos, which require specific certifications — per company or per crane.
- Haptic feedback — designed for gloved hands
Tactile confirmation on every action. Built for noisy, gloved industrial environments where screens are hard to read.
Compatibility & installation
| Works on | Any overhead crane |
| New or retrofit | Both |
| Commissioning | Single shift |
| Interlock method | Series with existing E-stop chain |
| Existing controls | Untouched — zero risk |
| Operator device | iPhone 7+ (NFC-capable) |
| Connectivity | Offline-capable |
| Available | Worldwide |
Compliance
| LOLER 1998 | Full pre-use inspection records with photo evidence and operator context |
| PUWER 1998 | Only trained, assigned operators can unlock. Equipment with open defects stays locked. |
| LOTO | Engineer lockouts honoured by the crane itself — full audit of who applied, who cleared, and why |
Safety principle
Guard can only inhibit operation — it cannot cause unintended motion. It wires in series with the existing hardwired E-stop chain, never in place of it. A hardware E-stop always cuts power regardless of Guard's state.
CEUKCARoHSLOLER
Who it's for
Plant Managers & HSE
Moves pre-use checks from policy to enforcement. Measurable compliance dashboards across every crane and operator. Complete, tamper-proof audit trail for LOLER, PUWER and insurance investigations.
Engineering & Maintenance
Defects reported with photos before maintenance gets called out. Faster diagnosis, fewer wasted trips. LOTO enforcement honoured by the crane itself — not just a sign on the pendant.
Crane Partners
Add enforceable pre-use inspection to any crane you supply or service — any manufacturer, any age, commissioned in a single shift. One product that works across your entire customer fleet.
Talk to us about craneIQ Guard
We work with plant managers, HSE teams and crane partners worldwide. Engineered in the West Midlands, UK — installed globally. Get in touch to discuss your application.