FAQ >> Stability of Cranes and Lifting Appliances

Stability of Cranes and Lifting Appliances

  • Where a crane or a lifting appliance is to be used on a slope or on uneven or soft ground, precautions must be taken to prevent overturning. This can be done, for example, by reducing the slope, levelling the ground or by using suitable supports.
  • If a situation occurs where a tower crane or other crane which needs portable ballast for its stability has new anchorage or alterations of the ballast materials, it must be tested before use. This test must be made so that maximum pull is applied to the anchorage or ballast, and a load 25% higher than the maximum rated load is permissible if the same results can be achieved. The results of the test must be recorded on form number CLA.3. shown in Appendix I. The test and report must be carried out by the competent person. When making this test, caution and care has to be exercised to avoid the over-stressing of crane components. Manufacturers instructions should be strictly followed.
  • Anchoring and ballasting materials must be secured to the crane structure in the appropriate and correct position.
  • Where portable ballast is used, a diagram or notice showing its position and weight must be attached to the crane. Each removable weight must be marked with its self-weight.
  • Cranes must not be used in weather conditions likely to affect their stability. A competent person must examine the anchorage and ballast arrangements as soon as practicable after a crane has been subjected to such weather conditions. A crane is not to be used again until all necessary steps have been taken to ensure its stability.
  • All mobile cranes must be fitted with level indicators. The indicators must be fixed in a position where they can be easily seen by the crane driver.

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