CPA Introduces Digital Crane Inspection Check Books
- Meagan Wood
- Apr 16, 2025
- 2 min read
30 Second Takeaway
The Construction Plant Association (CPA) has launched a digital version of its crane inspection check books, replacing traditional paper-based daily and weekly inspection records. Developed in partnership with Capja, the system uses QR-coded electronic forms that can be completed on smartphones or tablets, enabling real-time sharing of inspection and defect data across project teams.
Digitalising Crane Inspection and Compliance
Crane inspection and maintenance records are a critical component of safe lifting operations. Traditionally managed through paper-based systems, inspection documentation can be time-consuming to complete, difficult to share and vulnerable to delays or errors.
As construction and lifting operations continue to digitalise, electronic inspection tools are increasingly being adopted to improve accuracy, traceability and communication between crane owners, operators, maintenance teams and site management.
Digital Crane Check Books
The newly introduced CPA digital crane check books replace printed daily and weekly inspection books for mobile and crawler cranes.
Using QR-coded electronic forms, inspections can now be completed directly on a smartphone or tablet, removing the need for manual paperwork. Once completed, inspection records and defect reports can be instantly shared with relevant stakeholders, including:
Crane owners
Maintenance and engineering teams
Crane users and operators
Site managers
This immediate visibility supports faster decision-making and more efficient defect resolution.
Partnership with Capja
The digital check books have been developed in collaboration with Capja, a provider of digital inspection and compliance solutions.
To support adoption, the CPA is offering a trial period for existing users of its paper-based crane inspection system. During this transition, Capja will provide implementation support, helping users move from printed records to the digital platform.
Supporting Safer and More Efficient Operations
By digitising inspection processes, the CPA aims to improve record accuracy, reduce administrative burden and strengthen compliance across crane operations. The system also supports improved auditability and transparency, aligning with broader industry moves toward digital safety management systems.
About the Construction Plant Association
The Construction Plant Association (CPA) represents the UK construction plant industry, promoting safety, best practice and innovation across plant hire, manufacturing and supply sectors. The CPA develops industry guidance, standards and tools to support safe and efficient plant operations.
Visit website: https://www.cpa.uk.net
About Capja
Capja is a digital solutions provider specialising in inspection, compliance and asset management platforms for construction and industrial sectors. The company supports organisations in replacing paper-based systems with digital workflows to improve efficiency and data visibility.
Visit website: https://www.capja.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the CPA digital crane check books?
They are electronic daily and weekly crane inspection records designed to replace traditional paper-based check books.
Which cranes are covered?
The system applies to mobile and crawler cranes.
How are inspections completed?
Inspections are completed using QR-coded electronic forms on smartphones or tablets.
Who can access inspection records?
Records can be instantly shared with crane owners, maintenance teams, operators and site managers.
Is there a trial available?
Yes. The CPA is offering a trial period for current users of its paper-based system, with implementation support from Capja.
