How Often Should Periodic Inspections Be Performed? Timeframes Based on Equipment.
Periodic inspection how often How it will be done varies depending on the type of equipment and the standard applied. General rule: Unless otherwise specified by the standard or manufacturer, at least once a year. Below you will find a practical summary based on the equipment.
Frequency of periodic inspections on an equipment basis
| Equipment / system | General inspection range | Rest |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical installation, grounding, lightning rod. | Once a year | Electricity/Grounding Regulations |
| Residual current protection (RCD) | Once a year (+ test button regularly) | Relevant regulation |
| Forklift / stacker | Once a year | TS EN ISO 3691 series, FEM 4.004 |
| Crane / lifting equipment | Once a year | Relevant standard |
| Upgradable Platform (MEWP) | Once a year | TS EN 280+A1 |
| Pressure vessel / compressor | If there is no specified period, then once a year. | Relevant standard |
| Steam/hot oil boiler | If there is no specified period, then once a year. | Relevant standard |
| Fire extinguishing system / pump | If there is no specified period, then once a year. | Regulations on Fire Protection of Buildings, TS EN 12845, etc. |
| Construction scaffolding | Once every 6 months (maximum) | Appendix III Table 2 |
| Atmospheric vertical cylindrical steel tanks | Once every 10 years (maximum) | Appendix III Table 1 |
| Explosive atmosphere (Ex) equipment | Risk-based, maximum once every 3 years. | TS EN 60079-17 |
⚠️ This table is a general guideline. The exact interval varies depending on the type of equipment, intensity of use, manufacturer's instructions, and applicable standards. More frequent checks are recommended under intensive or demanding conditions.
What determines the range?
- Relating to regulations and standards (Annex III and equipment standard)
- Manufacturer's instructions (can predict a shorter range)
- Usage intensity and risk (more frequent in challenging conditions)
- Detected in the previous inspection findings
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Relevant Standard Guidelines
Basic standards and current editions according to equipment type:
- Fire/sprinkler: EN 12845 (A2:2026)
- Lifting/tower crane: EN 14439 (Tower Crane)
- Machine electrical equipment: IEC/EN 60204-1 (A1:2025)
- GES / prosumer installation: IEC 60364-8-82:2026
- Inspection body accreditation: ISO/IEC 17020:2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How often are periodic inspections generally carried out?
The general rule is that, unless the relevant standard or manufacturer specifies otherwise, the equipment should be inspected at least once a year. Some equipment may have shorter inspection intervals as specified by the standard.
How often should forklifts and cranes be inspected?
Unless otherwise specified in the standard, lifting and conveying equipment is subject to periodic inspections at least once a year.
Who determines the control interval?
The interval is determined taking into account the relevant regulation/standard, manufacturer's instructions, usage intensity, and previous inspection findings.