FAQ >> Coupled Cranes

Coupled Cranes

The use of more than one crane to lift the same load is sometimes called a "tandem lift". This is sometimes necessary when the load to be lifted exceeds the safe working load of a single crane, and a crane of an appropriate capacity for the load is not available. Lifting a load with two cranes is a potentially dangerous operation and requires very careful planning. An accurate calculation must also be made to determine the share of the load which is to be taken by each crane.

This Regulation is quite specific in the requirements which must be adopted when this type of operation takes place i.e.

  • Advance planning
  • Supervision by a competent person
  • The use of cranes of similar design and equal capacity
  • Each share of a load taken by a crane must not exceed 75% of the safe working load of that crane

If an operation requires the use of more than two cranes to raise one load, the operators responsible will be required to apply for a certificate of exemption under Regulation 27.

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