FAQ >> Brakes, Controls, Derricking Jibs and Cabins for Operators of Cranes

Brakes, Controls, Derricking Jibs and Cabins for Operators of Cranes

Brakes, Controls and Other Safety Devices

Every crane or lifting appliance must be provided with an efficient braking system. The system must be capable of sustaining any load to be raised, lowered or suspended within its capacity. This requirement does not apply to self-sustaining cranes or hand operated machines where the operator can sustain the load.

Each control on the crane or lifting appliance should be clearly identified to show the amount and direction of movement and where practicable controls should be so arranged that inadvertent operation can be prevented.

Cranes with Derricking Jibs

Cranes, fitted with derricking jibs, which are driven through a clutch from the same source of power which drives the hoisting mechanism, must be fitted with an interlocking arrangement which prevents the free fall of the jib when the derricking clutch is disengaged.

Precautions where Crane or Lifting Appliance has Travelling Slewing Motion

Precautions must be taken to prevent persons from being trapped between any moving part of a crane or lifting appliance and any fixed object. These precautions must include

  • An unobstructed passageway not less than two feet wide (610mm).
  • If this is not possible or practicable, steps must be taken to prevent persons from gaining access to the place where they are liable to be trapped.

Cabins for Operators of Cranes

Where cranes are exposed to the weather, and where they are used for long periods, a suitable cabin must be provided for the operator which should

  • Protect him from the weather, and
  • Where reasonably practicable, be provided with suitable means of heating

Any means provided for heating must not be of a type where offensive or injurious fumes may be given off.

Powers of Inspectors to Require Cranes and Lifting Appliances To Be Tested

In cases where a Health and Safety Inspector, appointed under Article 12 of the Health and Safety at Work (Jersey) Law, 1989, has reasonable grounds for considering that a crane or lifting appliance is unsafe, the following action may be taken

  • The Inspector may, by written notice, require a test and thorough examination to be carried out by a competent person of his choice.
  • Once the notice is served, the crane or lifting appliance must not be used until the test and thorough examination has been carried out and the competent person who carries out the test and examination has issued a certificate and has specified that the crane or lifting appliance is safe for further use.

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