Source: https://www.scribd.com/document/36583306/Safe-Use-of-Crane-in-Construction-Industry
Timestamp: 2016-10-25 18:07:03
Document Index: 250063290

Matched Legal Cases: ['art 1', 'art 1', 'art 1', 'art 1', 'art 1', 'art 1', 'art 3']

Safe Use of Crane in Construction Industry
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Code of Practice Safe use of Cranes in the Construction Industry (Part 1-General)
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I.S. 360 : 2004 Draft
Contents Foreword Acknowledgements 1 2 3 Scope Compliance Definitions Page 4 4 Page 5 6 1.1 1.2 1.3 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 3.7 3.8 3.9 3.10 3.11 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.5 5.6 6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4 6.5 6.6 6.7 7 8 Selection of Cranes Siting of Crane 23 24 7.1 7.2 7.3 9.1 9.2 Page Scope Compliance 7 Competent person Crane driver/operator Employing organisation User Organisation/User Rated Capacity Service Conditions Centre of Gravity Use Appointed Person/ Coordinator Method Statement Basic lift Safe System of Work Control of the Crane Operation Method Statement Contractual Considerations General 5 5 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 7 7 7 8 9 9 10 12
Management of Crane Operation
Selection, Responsibilities/ Minimum Requirements of Personnel 12
Duties of Persons Appointed to control the Crane Operation (The Appointed Person) 12 Crane Driver 13 Slinger/ Signaller 17 Crane Erector 18 Maintenance Personnel 19 General 20 Identification of Person Directing Crane Movements 20 Personal Safety Equipment 20 Access and Emergency Escape 21 Fire Extinguishers 21 Documentation Safety Devices General Crane Standing or Support Conditions Proximity Hazards Planning Identification of Components 21 22 24 25 25 28 28
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9.3 9.4 10.1 10.2 10.3 10.4 10.5 11.1 11.2 11.3 11.4 11.5 12.1 Electrical Supply 29 Use of Safety Harnesses 29 Crane Operation 31 Working on Cranes 31 Reporting of Defects and Incidents 32 Leaving Crane Unattended 33 Maintenance 33 Rated Capacity 35 Operational and Control 37 Multiple Lifting 38 Special Duties 40 Weather Conditions 42 Load estimation, mass and centre of gravity 44
Swinging and Handling of Loads Raising and Lowering of Persons Tests, Inspections and Condition Monitoring ANNEX A – Periodic Checks
ANNEX B - Raising or Lowering of Persons 51 ANNEX C - Example of Communication System 55 References Information Sources
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I.S. 360 : 2004 Draft Foreword
This Code of Practice (Part 1) is the result of an initiative agreed by the Construction Safety Partnership in their plan published on 28 February 2000. The parties involved in the Partnership include the Health and Safety Authority, the Construction Industry Federation, the Irish Congress of Trade Unions, and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment. The code was drafted by NSAI in consultation with the organisations that were represented on the Advisory Committee on Construction Safety, (see Acknowledgements). Subsequent Part(s) of the Code of Practice on the Safe Use of Cranes in the Construction Industry will cover the following: ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ Certification and Inspection; Tower cranes; Mobile/ crawler cranes; Self erecting Tower cranes; Lorry loader cranes
The National Standards Authority of Ireland wishes to acknowledge the adaptation of the general provisions of ISO 12480-1:1997, published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), incorporated into this Code of Practice. Finally, The National Standards Authority of Ireland wishes to acknowledge the adaptation of the general provisions of BS 7121-1:1989, and of BS 7121-3:2000, published by the British Standards Institution, incorporated into many sections of this Code of Practice.
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Part 1 of this Code of Practice sets out recommended practices for the safe use of cranes involved in construction work.. Its provisions include safe systems of work, management, planning, selection, erection and dismantling, operation and maintenance of cranes and the selection of drivers, slinger/ signallers. The Code does not cover manually operated (non-powered) cranes, cranes in which at least one of the motions is manually operated and cranes mounted on water-borne vessels, except in those circumstances where a land-based crane is temporarily affixed to a vessel.
Compliance with the requirements of this Code of Practice does not substitute for compliance with statutory regulations.
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For the purposes of Part 1 of this Code of Practice, the following definitions apply: 3.1 competent person: is one who is deemed in respect of the task they are required to perform, possess the necessary skills, relevant experience and qualifications considered necessary and appropriate to the nature of the work to be undertaken. crane driver/ operator: Person who is operating the crane for: (a) the purpose of positioning loads, or (b) for erection of the crane.
Note — For mobile cranes, the term operator is often used instead, and the term driver is then used to refer to that person who operates only those controls which moves the crane from place A to place B.
employing organisation: Person or organisation requiring the lifting operation to take place.
NOTE — The employing organization is not necessarily the user organization.
user organisation; user: Competent person or organisation which has direct control over the lifting operation rated capacity: Maximum permitted load that can be lifted by the crane under conditions specified by the manufacturer. Service Conditions 3.6.1 in-service: Condition in which the crane is handling loads up to the rated capacity in permissible wind speeds and in other conditions as specified by standards and/or the manufacturer. 3.6.2 out-of-service: Condition in which the crane is out of use, without load on the load-lifting attachment and in conditions as specified by standards and/or the manufacturer.
centre of gravity: Point at which the total mass of a body may be regarded as being concentrated, or about which the parts of a body exactly balance each other. centre of gravity: Point at which the total mass of a body may be
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regarded as being concentrated, or about which the parts of a body exactly balance each other. 3.9 appointed person/co-ordinator: One competent person who has overall control of the crane operation(s) and acts on behalf of the employing organisation requiring the load to be moved.
3.10 method statement: a document produced for or by the appointed person/ co-ordinator to describe how the lifting operation shall be carried out, including any contingency plan if the operation becomes interrupted (e.g. because of weather change, breakdown etc.) 3.11 basic lift: where the weight of the load(s) can be simply established, and there are no hazards or obstructions within the area of the operation.
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I.S. 360 : 2004 Draft 4 MANAGEMENT OF THE CRANE OPERATION
4.1 Safe system of work A safe system of work shall be established and followed for every crane operation whether it be an individual lift or a group of repetitive operations. The safe system of work shall include the following: (a) (b) risk assessment, planning of the operation All crane operations, including crane erection and dismantling, shall be planned to ensure that they are carried out safely and that all foreseeable risks have been taken into account. Planning shall be carried out by personnel who have the appropriate expertise and who are under the control of a person who has been appointed in writing for this purpose. In cases of repetitive or routine operations, this planning may only be necessary in the first instance, with periodic reviews to ensure that no factors have changed. As part of the planning process, due consideration shall be given to the characteristics of the load, site conditions and other structures (including cranes) in the vicinity and the method of lifting. (c) (d) (e) preparation of a Method Statement selection, provision and use of suitable crane(s) and equipment, including lifting gear (with tag ropes where necessary) appropriate to the operation maintenance, examination and, where necessary, testing of the crane(s), checks, inspections etc. of crane(s) and equipment including completion of the approved Forms . provision of competent personnel who have been made aware of their relevant responsibilities and the responsibilities of other persons involved in the crane operation adequate supervision by properly trained and competent personnel having the necessary authority ensuring that all necessary certificates and other documents, in particular all approved Forms., are available. prohibiting unauthorised movement or use of the crane at all times
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(j) (k) the safety of persons not involved in the crane operation coordination with other applicable parties for appropriate approval compliance or cooperation in avoiding hazards or guarding against hazards establishing a system of communication which is understood by the persons involved in the actual lifting operation, including use of hand signals and two-way radio take account of the safe load movement route, e.g. in the case of mobile cranes, the vicinity of overhead power lines prohibition of the use of mobile phones by the driver when controlling a load while operating the crane. The safe system of work shall be effectively communicated to all parties concerned.
Note 1 There exists statutory requirements such as those specified in the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Construction) Regulations, 2001 Note 2 It is essential for the safety of the operation to ensure that all personnel can communicate clearly in the same language.
Reference to crane operation in this Code includes any necessary preparation of a site, location, erection, dismantling and maintenance of crane(s). For mobile cranes this shall include preparation of the access routes around the place of work.
Control of the crane operation
4.2.1 Appointment of Appointed Person/Co-ordinator To ensure the implementation of the safe system of work, one person shall be appointed to have overall control of the crane operation(s) and to act on behalf of the management of the employing organisation requiring the load to be moved. The appointed person shall have adequate training and experience to enable these duties to be carried out competently. 4.3 Method Statement A Method Statement shall be prepared by the appointed person/co-ordinator, setting out a step-by-step description of the safe system of work for the entire lifting operation. In cases of repetitive or routine operations, this may only be necessary in the first instance, with periodic reviews to ensure that no factors have changed. The method statement shall include at least the following:
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a) the schedule of responsibilities (e.g. type of hire, road closures, base preparation, isolation of live services) b) details of the crane(s) c) details of ancillary equipment d) details of lifting accessories e) the name of the appointed person/ co-ordinator f) a complete plan setting out the sequence of the operation (from site preparation, arrival of the equipment on site, any necessary erection, positioning of the crane(s), lifting and placing of the load(s), and dismantling the crane(s), to moving off site). The plan shall also take account of the stability of the ground conditions.
Note: This list is indicative and non-exhaustive and, depending on the circumstances, further specific information may be required.
During preparation of the method statement, the appointed person/ coordinator, shall consult, as appropriate, with any persons with specialised knowledge and experience to ensure that all hazards that may be caused by, or in relation to the crane(s), are taken into consideration. The method statement shall give details of the steps to be taken to eliminate danger to personnel not involved in the lifting operation, and if necessary, to prevent entry into the danger zone. 4.4 Contractual considerations
4.4.1 Contract crane operations The Employing Organisation may enter into a contract with a “User Organisation" who will undertake the work on their behalf. The contract shall state the following: (a) (b) (c) that all work be carried out in accordance with this Code of Practice and all relevant statutory provisions; that the User appoint a person, in accordance with paragraph 3.2.1, to the satisfaction of the Employing Organisation; that all information or services provided by the Employing Organisation to facilitate compliance with this part of the Code of Practice be notified to the User in writing.
All other requirements of this part of the Code of Practice shall be followed by the User. The User shall be given full authority to fulfill his obligations relating to the Code of Practice including, where appropriate, authority to control and instruct the Employing Organisation’s personnel.
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If an individual or organisation does not have expertise in lifting operations, they shall not hire cranes but shall enter into contracts of the type described above. 4.4.2 Owners’ duties when hiring out cranes When a crane is hired out together with a driver to the organisation requiring the load to be moved (the Employing Organisation) the crane owner has a duty to provide: ♦ a competent driver for the particular crane, and ♦ a crane that is properly maintained, checked, tested, inspected, and is equipped with all relevant statutory documentation and certificates etc. 4.4.3 User’s duties when using hired cranes The User Organisation retains the responsibility for appointing the competent person, as referred to in paragraphs 2.9 and 3.2.1, for those matters for which the appointed person is expressly made responsible and for following the requirements of this part of the Code of Practice. Notwithstanding any advice the crane owner may have offered concerning the selection of a particular crane or any other relevant matter, the responsibility for ensuring that the crane is of a suitable type, size and capacity for the task being undertaken, and responsibility for planning the operation, remains with the User Organisation. 4.4.4. Special Consideration Where two or more cranes are operating or are likely to operate within the working radius of each other, adequate measures shall be in place to ensure that neither the cranes, nor their loads can come in contact, and that there is no risk to the safety of persons or property in the area. These measures shall include, a written Method Statement to allow appropriate planning, co-ordination, control and close supervision of these lifting operations. These procedures shall also be documented in the site’s Safety and Health Plan. Furthermore, these control measures shall also apply to cranes used on adjacent sites.
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I.S. 360 : 2004 Draft 5 Selection, Responsibilities And Minimum Requirements Of Personnel
5.1 General Safe operating of cranes depends on the selection of trained personnel who are competent to carry out the required duties. Records of training and experience of persons, such as the crane driver, will assist the selection of competent personnel. Those responsible for the selection shall ensure that the personnel involved in the operation are efficiently organised in order to ensure good teamwork in the working situation. No person may be a member of the team if their efficiency is impaired by alcohol, drugs or other influences. All personnel in the team shall be aware of their duties (see paragraphs 4.2 to 4.7). Where personnel are under training they shall be adequately supervised.
Note — In some circumstances it may be appropriate for one person to undertake more than one of the duties described in paragraphs 5.2 to 5.7.
5.2 Duties of the person appointed to control the crane operation The appointed person’s duties includes the following: (a) assessment of the crane operation to provide such planning, selection of crane(s), lifting gear and equipment, instruction and supervision as is necessary for the task to be undertaken safely; (This includes consultation with other responsible bodies, if necessary, and ensuring that where different organisations are involved they collaborate as necessary.) ensuring that adequate checks, inspections and maintenance of the equipment have been carried out; ensuring that there is an effective procedure for reporting defects and incidents and taking any necessary corrective action; responsibility for the organisation and control of the crane operation, i.e. ensuring that competent personnel are assigned as driver and other lift crew personnel;
The appointed person shall be given the necessary authority for the performance of all these duties and, in particular, authority to stop the operation whenever s/he considers that danger is likely to arise if the operation were to continue. Duties, but not responsibilities, may be delegated to another competent person, e.g. slinger/signaller, site foreman, site engineer, and other site personnel,
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including sub-contractors, in writing where considered appropriate. As the crane driver is required to be at the controls of the crane when it is handling loads, it may be appropriate to appoint the driver to be in control of basic lifting operations. (See also paragraphs 6.3, 8.2, 8.3.3, 9.4, 10.3, 11.3.1 and Annex A, regarding duties of the appointed person.) 5.3 Crane driver
5.3.1 Duties The crane driver is responsible for the correct operation of the crane in accordance with the manufacturer’s instruction and within the safe system of work (see paragraph 3.1). The crane driver, at any one time, shall respond only to the signals from one slinger/signaller who shall be clearly identified (see paragraph 5.2). The only exception is when an emergency stop signal is received. 5.3.2 Minimum requirements The crane driver shall be: (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) (g) competent and assessed, and able to present a record of same; not less than 18 years of age for the purpose of training be under the direct supervision of a competent person; fit, with particular regard to eyesight, hearing and reflexes; physically able to operate the crane safely; able to judge distances, heights and clearances; adequately trained for the type of crane being operated and have sufficient knowledge of the crane and its operational control and safety devices; fully competent in slinging and signaling including the crane signal code or any other accepted method used for relaying signals (the signal code is given in figures 1a and 1b); (For all new Tower Crane Operators the driver shall have operated as a slinger/signaller for a period of six months within a two-year period.)
(i) familiar with any fire appliances on the crane and trained in their use;
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(j) (k) familiar with any means provided for escape in case of emergency; authorised to operate the crane.
Note 1 — Evidence that the driver is medically fit to drive a crane shall be obtained at not more than five-year intervals. Note 2 Training of crane driver The requirements relating to the training of crane drivers will be covered in a separate Part of this Code of Practice in relation to each specific crane type. Note 3 Regulation 6(6), (6A) and (7), Regulation 9(4) and (5) and Regulation 14 of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Construction) Regulations, 2001, as they relate to the Ninth Schedule to the Regulations [as amended through the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Construction)(Amendment) Regulations 2003 (S.I. No. 277 of 2003) on the FAS Construction Skills Certification Scheme].
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RECOMMENDED CRANE SIGNALS
OPERATIONS START (Follow my instructions)
(Clench and unclench fingers to signal ‘inch the load’)
SLEW IN DIRECTION INDICATED
JIB UP JIB DOWN DERRICKING JIB
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Signal with one hand other hand on head
EXTEND JIB
RETRACT JIB
TRAVEL IN DIRECTION INDICATED
OPERATIONS CEASE (Or cease to follow my instructions)
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5.4.1 Duties The slinger/signaller is responsible for attaching and detaching the load to and from the crane’s load-lifting attachment and for the use of the correct lifting gear and equipment in accordance with the planning of the operation for proper positioning of loads. S/he shall also know the safe system of work. The slinger/signaller is responsible for initiating the planned movement of the crane and load (see paragraph 4.4.2 (j)). If there is more than one slinger/signaller, only one of them may have this responsibility at any one time depending on their positions relative to the crane. To ensure continuity of signaling where the slinger/signaller is not visible to the crane driver a second slinger/signaller may be necessary to relay the signals to the crane driver. Alternatively, other audio or visual methods may be used, including the use of Two-Way Radio and hand signals. If, during the crane operation, responsibility for directing the crane and load is to be transferred to another nominated person, the slinger/signaller shall clearly indicate to the crane driver that this responsibility is being transferred and to whom. Furthermore, the driver and the new nominated person shall clearly indicate that they accept the transfer of responsibility. See also Annex C, regarding an example of a communication system. 5.4.2 Minimum requirements The slinger/signaller shall be: (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) (g) competent and assessed, and able to present a record of same; not less than 18 years of age; for the purpose of training, be under the direct supervision of a competent person; fit, with particular regard to eyesight, hearing, reflexes and agility; physically able to handle lifting gear and equipment; trained in the techniques of slinging; capable of selecting lifting gear and equipment in suitable condition for the load to be lifted;
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(h) trained in the techniques of signaling and understand the signal code (see figures 1a and 1b); (i) capable of giving precise and clear verbal instructions where audio equipment (e.g. radio) is used, and capable of operating the equipment; capable of initiating and directing the safe movement of the crane and load; authorised to carry out slinging and signaling duties; know the relevant statutory requirements, e.g. those relating to lifting gear.
(j) (k) . (l)
Note 1 : Proof of the above training shall be available on site. Regulations 6, 9 and 14 and the Ninth Schedule to the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Construction) Regulations, 2001, refer.
5.5.1 Duties The crane erector is responsible for the erection of the crane in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and safe system of work (see Sections 4 & 8). Where two or more crane erectors are required, one shall be appointed as ‘erector in charge’ to control the operation at any one time. 5.5.2 Minimum requirements
The crane erector shall be: (a) (b) (c) (e) (f) (g) (h) competent and assessed, and able to present a record of same; not less than 18 years of age; for the purpose of training, be under the direct supervision of a competent person; fit, with particular regard to eyesight, hearing, reflexes and agility; physically able to handle safely the loads involved in crane erection; able to work confidently and safely at heights; able to establish masses, balance loads, and judge distances, heights and clearances;
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(i) (j) (k) (l) (i) 5.6 trained in the techniques of slinging and signaling; capable of selecting lifting gear and equipment that is suitable for the load to be lifted; adequately trained in the erection, dismantling and working of the model of crane being erected; adequately trained in the setting and testing of the safety devices fitted to the crane being erected. familiar with relevant statutory requirements applicable to the crane. Maintenance personnel
5.6.1 Duties Maintenance personnel, who could include the driver, shall carry out all necessary maintenance in accordance with the manufacturer’s maintenance manual and within the safe system of work (see paragraph 3.1). 5.6.2 Minimum requirements Maintenance personnel shall be: (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) competent and assessed, and able to present a record of same; fully conversant with the crane they are required to maintain and its hazards; properly instructed (including attendance at appropriate courses where special equipment is used); familiar with the statutory requirements applicable to the crane; familiar with the procedures and precautions recommended in Section 9.
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I.S. 360 : 2004 Draft 6 Safety
6.1 General The person or organisation having overall control of the place of work, and the employers of personnel involved in the crane operation, have responsibility for safety. In order that this responsibility may be effectively discharged, the appointed person (see paragraph 4.2) shall be given the necessary authority to ensure that adequate systems to achieve safety are in operation. Safety matters relating to crane operations will include the use, maintenance, repair and renewal of safety equipment and the instruction of, and allocation of responsibilities to, the various personnel in relation to the equipment. All personnel not directly involved in the lifting operation shall be kept clear of the area. Where practical, loads shall not be carried or suspended over occupied areas. It is recommended that a minimum clearance of 1.5 m be maintained between a crane, and any obstacle or obstruction, with the exception of overhead power lines (see section 7.3). 6.2 Identification of person directing crane movements The person directing crane movements (slinger/signaller) shall be easily identifiable to the crane driver, e.g. by wearing uniquely identifiable high-visibility clothing, and/or by using radio call signs.
Note 1 — When choosing high-visibility clothing, the background, type of illumination, and other relevant factors shall be considered 1. (I.S. EN 471:1994).
6.3 Personal safety equipment The appointed person shall ensure that: (a) personal safety equipment appropriate for the conditions of the location is available; All personnel on a site, whether working, visiting, or in the vicinity of a crane, shall be inducted in and/or made aware of the requirements relating to their personal safety and to the use of the personal safety equipment provided. Personnel shall be instructed in the correct use of the appropriate personal safety equipment provided and shall be required to use it. (b) personal safety equipment is inspected before and after use and maintained in good working order or replaced where appropriate;
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(c) a record of inspection and repairs is maintained where appropriate;
Certain activities, in particular some inspection/maintenance activities, will require access to work at a height. These activities are high risk and will require particular control measures. These measures will be dealt with in a separate Part of this Code of Practice relating to Inspection and Certification, and Crane types. Certain safety equipment (e.g. helmets and safety harnesses) may deteriorate with age and shall, therefore, be considered for renewal periodically, in line with the manufacturer’s recommendations. Safety equipment damaged by impact shall be replaced immediately. 6.4 Access and emergency escape
5.4.1 General Safe access and means of escape shall be provided and maintained in good condition for the driving position(s) of the crane and for inspection, examination, maintenance, repair, erection and dismantling of the crane. 6.4.2 Boarding and leaving the crane No person(s) may be permitted to board or leave the crane or enter its physically designated area without first obtaining the driver’s permission. The driver shall be aware of the precautions that are necessary while person(s) are boarding or leaving the crane. If the boarding or leaving point is out of sight of the driver, means shall be provided to ensure that the driver is aware of the other person(s) whereabouts. 6.4.3 Instruction of personnel Personnel shall be instructed to use only the proper access and means of escape. 6.5 Fire extinguishers The cab of every crane shall be equipped with suitable fire fighting equipment appropriate for the fire hazards associated with the particular crane. All fire extinguishers shall be scheduled for periodic inspection. With regard to the mounting of any fire extinguisher, please refer to the product-specific standards. 6.6 Documentation
6.6.1 Rated capacity charts A copy of rated capacity charts applicable to the various specified operating configurations of the crane shall be kept available in the operator’s cab.
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6.6.2 Instruction manuals Manuals supplied by the manufacturer shall be in English, or in the language understandable by the driver or operator. Manuals shall have adequate information on the erection, use and dismantling of the crane and they shall be readily available. Certain machine types provide verbal instruction/information to the drivers. This shall be in the language of the driver and readily understandable. 6.6.3 Test and examination certificates and reports Copies of all required reports or certificates of inspections, examinations and tests shall be kept readily available in the crane cab at all times and, in the case of Tower Cranes, in the Site Office. Regulation 97 of the Safety Health and Welfare at Work (Construction) Regulation, 2001, refers. 6.7 Safety Devices Safety devices are required on all cranes. These include Automatic Safe Load Indicators, Load Radius Indicators, Wind Speed Indicators and Overload Cutout Devices. These and other similar safety devices will be referred to further in a separate Part of this Code of Practice relating to crane type.
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I.S. 360 : 2004 Draft 7. Selection Of Cranes
Cranes are available in a number of forms and the characteristics of the various types of cranes shall be considered in relation to the job requirements. Having decided upon the type of crane, and knowing the overall requirements involved, a crane that will safely meet all the requirements of a planned lift shall be selected. Points to be considered in making the selection include the following: (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) (g) (h) masses, dimensions and characteristics of loads; operational speeds, radii, heights of lifts and areas of movement; number, frequency and types of lifting operations; length of time for which the crane will be required, or anticipated life expectancy for a permanently installed crane; site, ground and environmental conditions or restrictions arising from the use of existing buildings; space in which the crane shall operate; any special operational requirements or limitations imposed. suitable for necessary task.
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I.S. 360 : 2004 Draft 8. Siting Of Cranes
8.1 General Siting of the crane shall take account of all the factors that may affect its safe operation, particularly the following: (a) (b) (c) the presence and proximity of other hazards; the effect of wind during in-service and out- of- service conditions; the adequacy of access/ egress to allow the placing or erection of the crane in its working position and for dismantling and removal of the crane following completion of lifting operations.
8.2 Crane standing or support conditions In the case of Tower Cranes, including self erecting tower cranes, a written report shall be prepared on the crane standing and support conditions and shall be made available for inspection; (This duty is co-ordinated by the Project Supervisor for the Construction Stage. Regulations 3 and 6 of the Safety Health and Welfare at Work (Construction) Regulations, 2001, refer.) The appointed person shall ensure that the loads imposed by the crane can be sustained by the ground or any means of support, and that these are assessed by a competent person and certified. The loads imposed by the crane whilst in service, out of service and during erection and dismantling shall be obtained from the crane manufacturer or other authority on crane design and construction. The loadings shall include the combined effects of the following: (a) (b) (c) (d) dead weight of the crane (including any counterweight, ballasting or foundation where appropriate); dead weight of the load(s) and any lifting attachment(s); dynamic forces caused by movements of the crane; wind loadings, resulting from wind speeds up to the maximum permitted, taking into account the degree of exposure of the site.
In and out-of-service and erection/dismantling conditions shall be taken into consideration. The appointed person shall ensure that the ground or means of support is such that the crane can operate within the levels and other parameters specified by
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the manufacturer. 8.3 Proximity hazards
8.3.1 General Consideration shall be given to the presence of proximity hazards such as nearby structures, other cranes, or transport vehicles, stacked materials, public access areas - including highways, railways and rivers. Where any part of the crane or its load cannot be kept clear of such hazards, the appropriate authority shall be consulted. The danger to or from underground services, such as gas mains or electric cables, shall not be overlooked. Precautions shall be taken to ensure that the crane foundation is clear of any underground services or, where this is not possible, that the services are adequately protected to safeguard against damage being caused. 8.3.2 Overhead electric lines and cables When operating a crane in close proximity to aerial conductors, the following precautions shall be observed by the appointed person, operator and other persons working with the crane: (a) (b) When operating in an unfamiliar area, check for the presence of aerial conductors; Consider all such conductors to be live unless it is positively known (e.g. by confirmation in writing) that they have been switched out and earthed, by the electrical utility company. Each crane type has different operating/equipment characteristics that dictate varying requirements for safe operating distances from electrical overhead conductors. Where contact can be made with live power lines, advice from the electrical utility company shall be sought prior to commencement of any work; The load and crane shall not approach the power lines any closer than shown in figure 1. A prior Risk Assessment will help identify situations where any lifting or crane movements are likely to be in such close proximity to live overhead conductors that, in conjunction with the electrical utility company , such lines be switched out and earthed, with written proof that this has been done prior to under taking such lifts. (d) Cranes shall not be used to remove material from under a power line if any part of the crane, lifting attachments or jib is capable of contacting or
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coming within the danger zone of the power line, unless approved by the electrical utility company engineer. Overhead power lines shall be protected/demarked in accordance with the electrical utility company guidelines (see figure 1). (e) Where wind speed and wind direction are factors, these shall also be taken into account when lifting loads close to overhead lines. (The use of anemometers will be dealt with in a separate Part of this Code of Practice relating to Tower Cranes.)
The criteria above, along with suitably detailed Method Statements, shall be outlined in writing in the Safety and Health Plan for projects.
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8.3.3 (a) Crane control in the vicinity of aerodromes/airfields The appointed person shall observe the local Aviation Authority’s rules where the crane is to be used near an aerodrome or airfield.
Figure 2 Clearances from live aerial conductors
(a) Distribution lines on poles – Low Voltage 10KV – 38KV
Distance 10m unless designated otherwise by electrical utility company (b)Transmission lines110KV–400KV
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9.1 Planning Erection and dismantling of a crane shall be thoroughly planned and properly supervised, in the same way as the crane operation (see Section 4). A correctly planned erection and dismantling procedure shall ensure that: (a) erection of the crane does not commence until an instruction manual, written in the language of the country in use and, clearly understood by erection staff, is available for their use on site; the erection/dismantling manual is appropriate to the particular crane and clearly marked with the crane manufacturer’s serial and type numbers and the owner’s identification; the entire erection and dismantling operation is in accordance with the manual and is controlled by the erector in charge (see paragraph 4.5); all personnel involved have a sound knowledge of their part in the operation, are trained and know the safe system of work; only correct parts and components are used when replacement is necessary; the manufacturer’s recommendations for the method of moving a crane from the place of erection to its place of work are followed; the crane is level to within the limits specified by the manufacturer.
Any departure from prescribed procedures or specifications shall be approved by the designer of the crane or a competent engineer. 9.2 Identification of components All major components that form part of a crane and are dismantled for transportation (particularly those that are load-bearing or ensure the stability of the assembled crane) shall be clearly identifiable to ensure that they can be distinguished for inspection or thorough examination and test.
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Note 1 - Where a crane is put into service, or placed on the market in the European Community, or has been imported from outside the European Community on or after the 1st January 1995, it shall conform to the requirements of the European Community (Machinery) Regulations, 2001 (S.I. No. 518, of 2001). 9.3 Electrical supply Electric supply to a crane shall comply with the manufacturer’s requirements and shall be supplied in accordance with the provisions of Part VIII of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations S.I. 44, 1993, and the Electro Technical Council of Ireland (ETCI) Rules. The following points - apart from design requirements - shall be noted if the crane is electrically operated from a power source external to the crane: (a) (b) (c) The characteristics of the power supply and of the crane equipment shall be checked for compatibility before connection; Electrical fuses or circuit breakers shall be provided to interrupt the power supply in the event of an electrical overload or earth fault occurring; Care shall be taken to ensure that any trailing cable is not damaged during operational movement or when the crane is traveling. The travel distance shall be well within the length of the trailing cable; In addition to any isolator within the crane capable of cutting off the electrical supply to the crane motions, there shall be an identified isolator remote from the crane, which can be used to cut off the electrical supply to the crane itself.
Tower Cranes shall be correctly earthed in accordance with the current National Rules for Electrical Installations, and shall be protected against lightning. 9.4 Use of Safety Harnesses When erecting a jib configuration, the crane erector (usually the driver in the case of mobile cranes) or other person may be required to work at a height that exceeds two metres (e.g. when walking on the main jib). The appointed person shall carry out a risk assessment on all erection/ dismantling operations and shall provide an appropriate safe system of work. If a safety harness is incorporated into the safe system of work it is essential to consider the attachment of the harness, to ensure sufficient freedom of movement of the wearer. Note: - If the freedom of movement of the wearer of the safety harness is restricted, the hazard could be increased, and therefore needs to be reassessed. Safety harnesses, ladders and ancillary equipment shall be used in accordance with the safety procedures specified in the crane manual. The crane erector shall be trained in correct use of all personal protective equipment required to safely
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erect and dismantle the crane, and ensure that personal protective equipment is used at all times.
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I.S. 360 : 2004 Draft 10 Procedures And Precautions
10.1 Crane operation Whenever a crane is moved, whether or not it is lifting a load, it shall only be driven by a trained and competent driver nominated by the appointed person. The appointed person may nominate a trainee driver under the direct supervision of a competent driver. Maintenance personnel who are required to move cranes during maintenance work and testing shall be competent in crane driving to the extent necessary to enable them to carry out their duties safely. 10.2 Working on cranes
10.2.1 General When personnel are required to work on cranes for inspection, maintenance or other reasons, the crane shall be taken out of normal operating service. A safe system of work, including appropriate warning notices, shall be put into operation to ensure that they are not endangered by movement of the crane and that a secure working place is provided. For small cranes, where the driver has a clear view of all the moving parts, the system may be by means of verbal communication provided that it is clearly defined and readily understood by all personnel. For larger and more complex cranes, a permit-to-work system may be necessary. The appointed person shall decide whether such a permit-to-work system may be necessary. 10.2.2 Permit to work An effective permit-to-work system will ensure that the crane is physically incapable of movement (by removal of fuses or some other means) before written authority is given to the person who is to undertake the work. The recipient of the permit to work shall sign the document and take it into safe custody, understanding that she/he is responsible for the work and the personnel associated with that work. Upon completion of the work, the person who has been responsible for the work shall sign the certificate certifying that all personnel have been withdrawn, that all gear, tools and loose materials have been removed, that all guards have been replaced and that all safety devices are operating properly. Following the clearance of the Permit to Work form, or the cancellation by the issuer, the safety precautions taken can then be removed and the crane returned to its normal mode of operation.
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To achieve and maintain a safe system of work for the implementation of a permit to work system, several conditions need to be met including the following: (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) allocation of responsibilities for co-ordinating, monitoring, issuing, receiving, clearing and canceling permits to work; the crane shall be clearly identified along with its associated plant and apparatus; effective means of isolation and making it safe from all sources of danger; secure means of retaining of keys, fuses or other devices essential for maintaining the isolation of plant and apparatus; demarcation of, and any special precautions taken to maintain, a safe working area.
10.2.3 Periodic Checks Periodic checks shall be carried out. The manufacturer will prescribe several types of periodic checks (see Annex A). 10.2.4 Regular inspections Cranes shall be inspected as prescribed in the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Construction) Regulations, 2001. 10.2.5 Testing (Condition monitoring) When a crane approaches the design constraints, a special assessment shall be made in accordance with IS0 12482-1. 10.3 Reporting of defects and incidents The appointed person shall ensure that there is an effective procedure for reporting defects and incidents. This procedure shall include notification to the appointed person, recording of action taken to rectify any defects and clearance of crane for further service. It shall include the immediate notification of: (a) (b) (c) (d) any defects found during daily or periodic checks; defects found at any time; incidents or accidents, however slight; dangerous occurrences or reportable accidents.
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10.4 Leaving the crane unattended A crane driver shall always be present when a load is suspended from a crane. A crane shall not be left unattended, even for short periods, unless all loads have been removed from the lifting attachment and the lifting attachment has been left in a safe position, the power supplies to all motions have been switched off or the engine has been stopped, and appropriate motion brakes and locks have been applied to put the machine in a safe condition. The ignition key and any other keys shall be removed from the crane whenever the driver is absent from the machine. For longer periods and for out-of-service conditions, isolation shall be more permanent, i.e. switches locked off, fuel supplies cut off and any doors giving access to machinery or control cabs locked to prevent unauthorised access. 10.5 Maintenance
10.5.1 General The crane and other equipment used in the lifting operation shall be maintained in a satisfactory condition. Adequate information, such as manufacturer’s instructions, shall be available. All maintenance shall be carried out by trained personnel with adequate knowledge of current procedures. The frequency and extent of such maintenance shall take account of all factors that affect the crane in carrying out its work. 10.5.2 Planned maintenance To ensure safe and satisfactory operation of the crane, a properly planned maintenance system shall be established and used. Maintenance records shall be kept available for inspection. Manufacturer’s instruction books recommend that specific tasks shall be carried out at stated intervals, and these periods shall not be exceeded. They also specify the lubrication points that require attention, the interval or frequency of greasing and oil changes, and the grades and quality of lubricants to be used. Furthermore, the instruction books will also cover other essential maintenance such as replacement of filters, recommended tyre pressures, frequency for checking the security of fixing bolts and recommended torque settings and other adjustments, e.g. clutches, brakes. Regular inspection shall be carried out at intervals recognising the frequency of use of the crane and the environmental conditions. An effective planned maintenance system shall recognise the possible need to
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prohibit use of the crane until essential maintenance work is carried out. 10.5.3 Replacement components Replacement components shall conform to the manufacturer’s specification or an equivalent standard. 10.5.4 Repairs If it is necessary to carry out any significant repairs to any part of the crane structure, it is essential that the correct procedure laid down by the manufacturer be strictly followed. If the manufacturer’s procedures are not available, suitable procedures shall be provided by an expert engineer.
Note 1 – The Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Construction) Regulations, 2001, requires that cranes which have had substantial repairs or alterations are retested in accordance with the requirements of the act..
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I.S. 360 : 2004 Draft 11 Operating Conditions
11.1 Rated capacity The rated capacity of the crane shall not be exceeded, other than for the express purpose of a test of the crane. (The stability of the crane shall be maintained during test). Care shall be taken to prevent pendulum swinging of the load by careful control of the operating motions to match the swing of the load and to keep it under control at all times (see figure 3).
Note — Loads shall always be lifted gently and crane motions shall be operated smoothly to avoid swinging (a swinging load will increase the overturning moment of the crane). Tag lines shall be used where necessary and where the load presents a windcatching area. Travel shall always take place with the load near to ground level so that load swinging can be controlled.
Figure 3— Adverse effect of a swinging load on load radius (see paragraph 11.1)
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The hoisting, slewing, traversing, luffing or travelling motions of a crane shall not be used to drag any load along the ground with the hoist rope out of the vertical position. Before lifting a load, the hoist line shall be plumb (see figure 4). Failure to observe these points may adversely affect the stability of the crane or introduce loadings (stresses) into the crane for which it has not been designed and, even with an automatic safe-load indicator fitted, a structural failure may result without any warning being given.
Note -Typical operational conditions imposing a side loading on the jib of a crane are shown in figure 4. Jibs are not designed for high side loads in crane service. Loads shall not be pulled or dragged sideways using either the slewing motion or hoist line. The hoist line shall always be in the plane of the jib and hanging plumb. Side loading of the jib shall be avoided.
Figure 4 - Side- loading on jib
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11.2 Operation and control
11.2.1 General Before starting any lifting operation with a crane, the following shall be observed: (a) (b) (c) The driver shall check for the presence of lockout and tag out devices installed on the equipment or controls before start of operation. The driver shall be familiar with the controls and their layout. The driver shall have a clear and unrestricted view of the load and operational area. If not, the driver shall act under the directions of the slinger/signaller who shall be positioned to have a clear and uninterrupted view. The driver and/or the signaller shall ensure that loads and the crane hoist ropes are well clear of obstructions. Where telephone, radio or closed circuit television communications are being used, the driver shall ensure that the calling signal is functioning satisfactorily and that verbal messages can be clearly heard; Where air or hydraulic systems are used, the driver shall ensure that the gauges are functioning and that the systems are at the correct operating pressures; Free fall systems are not allowed for the lifting or lowering of loads. Cranes with free fall systems are prohibited from lifting persons under any circumstances.
The hoist rope shall be vertical throughout the hoisting operation. The load shall initially be lifted just clear of the supporting surface and be brought to rest while the slings, balance of the load, etc. are checked, before proceeding. The driver shall exercise proper care at all times to avoid shock or side loadings on the jib or structure. Care shall be taken to avoid the load-lifting attachment coming into contact with the structure. Motion motors shall not be reversed before the motor has come to rest, unless the control mechanism is specifically designed to allow this to be done. The crane safety devices shall not be used as a routine means of stopping the motion(s). Traveling cranes which move close to where personnel may be located shall be equipped with an appropriate warning device. A warning bell or klaxon shall be fitted for this purpose. Alternatively, any device that would provide an equivalent or higher degree of safety warning may be used.
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11.2.2 Remote-controlled cranes To prevent unauthorised use, the driver of a crane, which is controlled by transmitted signals, e.g. radio, shall either: (a) (b) always retain the transmitter or key in his or her physical possession, or when the crane is not in use remove the key and, for short periods, retain the key in his or her possession, or for longer periods deposit the transmitter or key in safe storage.
Note: — Provision shall be made for the security of the transmitter when the crane is not in use.
When the transmitter is fitted with a belt or harness, the driver shall be wearing the harness before switching on the transmitter so that accidental operation of the crane is prevented. The transmitter shall only be switched on when operating the crane and shall be switched off before removing the harness. The controlled-range feature, where provided on a remote-controlled crane, shall be tested at regular intervals, to ensure that it operates within the limits specified. Where crane movements are controlled remotely, e.g. use of radio control, preplanning and preparation will be necessary to ensure that there is no interference from other remote controlled devices in the vicinity. In the event of loss of power to the operating unit while the machine is cycling, the machine shall be fitted with a suitable cut–out mechanism that will halt the machine’s movement, until control is re-established3, (I.S. EN 61000-6-2: 2001). 11.3 Multiple lifting
11.3.1 General Lifting a load with two or more cranes or hoists requires greater attention to planning and supervision than lifting with one crane, because the effects of the relative motion between the cranes may induce additional loadings on the cranes, the load and the lifting gear. Because of this, and the difficulty in monitoring these additional loads, multiple lifting shall only be used when the physical dimensions, characteristics, mass or required movement of the load prevent the operation being carried out by a single crane. The Safe Working Load (SWL) of each crane for the required jib length and operating radius shall be at least 25% in excess of the calculated share of the load of each crane. Multiple lifting shall be planned by the appointed person with extreme care (see Section 4) and shall include an accurate assessment of the proportion of the load
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to be carried by each crane. It is essential in the planning to ensure that the hoist ropes remain vertical. The cranes shall not be subjected to forces in excess of those that would occur were they handling their rated capacity as single lifts. 11.3.2 Main factors to be considered when planning multiple lifting
11.3.2.1 Mass of the load The total mass and its distribution shall be either known or calculated. Where the information is taken from a drawing, due allowances shall be made for casting and rolling margins and manufacturing tolerances. 11.3.2.2 Centre of gravity Owing to the variable effect of manufacturing tolerances and rolling margins, quantity of weld metal, etc., the centre of gravity may not be known accurately and the proportion of the load being carried by each crane may therefore be uncertain. When necessary, steps shall be taken in advance to accurately locate the centre of gravity. 11.3.2.3 Mass of the lifting gear The mass of the lifting gear shall be part of the calculated load on the cranes. When handling heavy or awkwardly shaped loads, the deduction from the safe working load(s) of the cranes to allow for the mass of the lifting gear may well be significant. Therefore, the mass of the lifting gear, and hook blocks where appropriate, and its distribution shall be accurately known. 11.3.2.4 Capacity of the lifting gear The distribution within the lifting gear of the forces that will arise during the lifting operation shall be established. The lifting gear used shall, unless specially designed for the particular lifting operation, have a capacity margin well in excess of that needed for its proportioned load. Special lifting gear may be necessary to suit the maximum variation in distribution and direction of application of loads or forces that can occur during multiple lifting. 11.3.2.5 Synchronization of crane motions If the variations in the direction and magnitude of the forces acting on the crane during the multiple lift are to be kept to a minimum, it is essential that the crane motions shall be synchronous in their effect. Cranes of equal capacity and similar characteristics shall therefore be used whenever possible. In practice, there will always be some variation due to differences in response to the activation of the motion controller and the setting and efficiency of the braking system. The rated capacity of a crane is calculated on the assumption that the load will be raised and lowered in a vertical plane. The crane structure will have been designed to withstand any lateral loads imposed by accelerations in the various crane motions, but it is unsafe to rely on this lateral strength to withstand
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horizontal components of out-of-plumb lifts. Since it is unlikely, particularly if the cranes have dissimilar characteristics, that the motions of the two cranes will be accurately synchronised, an assessment shall be made of the effect of variation in plumb of the hoist ropes, which may arise from inequalities of speed, together with a determination of the means for keeping such inequalities to a minimum. 11.3.2.6 Instrumentation Instruments are available to monitor the angle of the load and verticality and the force in each hoist rope constantly throughout the lifting operation. The use of such instruments can assist in the control of the loads on the cranes within the planned values. 11.3.3 Supervision One competent person shall be in attendance and in overall control of the multiple crane operation. Only this person shall give instructions to personnel operating or driving machines, except in an emergency, when a commonly recognised stop signal may be given by any person observing a situation leading to danger. If all the necessary points cannot be observed from one position, other personnel will be required at various positions to observe and report to the person in charge of the operation. 11.3.4 Capacity requirements during multiple lifting If the appointed person is satisfied that all the relevant factors in paragraphs 10.3.2.1 to 10.3.2.6 have been accurately identified and are being monitored by instruments, the cranes may be used up to their rated capacity. When all the factors cannot be accurately evaluated, an appropriate down rating shall be applied to all the cranes involved. The down rating may have to be 25 % or more. 11.4 Special duties
11.4.1 General The mass of any special lifting attachment shall always be included as part of the load to be lifted. The attachment shall be tested, certified and plainly marked with the safe working load and mass of the attachment. Attachments shall only be used for the purpose for which they were designed. 11.4.2 Grabbing and magnet crane service
11.4.2.1 General When using cranes for special duties such as grabbing or magnet crane service, allowance shall be made not only for the mass of the grab, magnet or other attachments, together with load, but also for additional loadings imposed on the
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crane resulting from fast slewing, grab suction effects, impacts, etc. Consequently the mass of the grab and contents, or the masses of the magnet and load, will be less than the corresponding safe working load for normal crane duty. Reference shall be made to the crane designer or another competent engineer for details of special duty ratings. 11.4.2.2 Grabbing service In case of grabbing cranes, the load lifted is the mass of the grab and its contents. The mass of the latter depends on the density of the material handled. It is essential that any grab used shall be of appropriate capacity for the material, having regard to the safe working load of the crane. A check shall always be made in cases of doubt. 11.4.2.3 Magnet service The magnet shall be marked with the safe working load as determined by the manufacturer, or subsequently limited by tests using masses of the same characteristics as the load for which the device is intended to be used. The power to the magnet shall not be switched on until the magnet has been lowered on to the load to be lifted. The magnet shall be carefully lowered on to the load and shall not be allowed to strike a solid obstacle while in use. It shall not be used on hot metal unless specifically designed for this duty. When not in use, the power shall be switched off to avoid the magnet becoming too hot. The magnet shall not be deposited on the ground but shall be rested on a wooden platform. 11.4.3 Vacuum lifting devices
11.4.3.1Vacuum-lifting attachments shall be regularly inspected to ensure that adequate suction is maintained over the required period. Every vacuum lifting device shall be fitted with a device that gives a visual indication to the crane driver of the state of the vacuum at any time, and an audible warning to the driver and any person working in the vicinity at ground level when the vacuum is 80 % or less of the designed working vacuum and/or in the event of failure of the vacuum-inducing pump. 11.4.3.2 Every vacuum lifting device shall have means that, in the event of failure of the vacuum-inducing pump, will maintain sufficient vacuum to continue to support the load suspended for a sufficient time (allowing a safety margin) for that load to be safely deposited from the maximum height of lift of the crane to ground level. Every vacuum-lifting device shall be fitted with a suitable vacuum gauge that is of sufficient size and situated in a position where the gauge reading may be easily
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read at the attachment and release positions of the load. The gauge shall be distinctively marked in red to indicate the vacuum below which the appliance shall not be used. A vacuum-lifting device shall only be used to lift loads that have a surface suitable for vacuum lifting pads. 11.4.3.3 The vacuum device shall be constructed so that: (a) (b) (c) each pad supports an equal part of the load, as far as is practicable; the contact surface of the load is suspended horizontally as far as is practicable; the surface of the load is clear of any loose material that would prevent any vacuum pad from making an effective contact with the surface.
11.4.3.4 Before being used for the first time, or after any substantial repair, the vacuum device shall be tested by a competent person by application of a test load. The test load surface shall, as far as is practicable, be similar to the worst type of surface on which the device is intended to be used. The vacuum device, particularly the hoses and vacuum pads, shall be inspected before use at the beginning of each shift or day, and the warning device shall be tested at the beginning of each week. 11.4.3.5 In the event of using vacuum lifting devices not fitted with vacuum pumps (mechanically induced vacuum) safety nets shall be used. 11.4.4 Demolition and other special operations The requirements relating to the use of cranes in demolition work and other special operations will be covered in a separate Part of this Code of Practice. 11.5 Weather conditions
10.5.1 General The operation of cranes in situations where they are likely to be affected by the weather shall be given careful consideration. Certain weather conditions such as strong wind, heavy rain, ice or snow, can impose loads on a crane and adversely affect the safety of crane operations. 11.5.2 Wind The crane shall not be operated in wind speeds that are in excess of those specified in the operating instructions for the crane. Gusting wind conditions may have an additional adverse effect on the safe handling of the load and the safety
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of a crane. Even in relatively light wind conditions, extra care shall be taken when handling loads presenting large wind-catching areas. The limitations on wind speed for erecting, testing and dismantling the crane may be lower than the limitation for normal operation (especially in the case of self climbing cranes). In cases of doubt the designer’s or another competent engineer’s advice shall be obtained. The testing of a crane shall not be carried out in weather conditions in excess of the manufacturers recommendations. Advice issued by the crane manufacturer regarding the out-of-service conditions shall be strictly followed. All Cranes shall be fitted with an anemometer at the highest point, with a wind speed meter, so that the wind speed can be readily determined. Note: - All Tower Cranes shall be fitted with a wind speed meter. 11.5.3 Visibility In poor visibility, suitable means of communication shall be provided to ensure the safe operation of the crane. In extreme conditions, crane operations shall be stopped until there is sufficient improvement in visibility to enable operations to be resumed safely. 11.5.4 Rain, snow or ice During adverse weather conditions, the appointed person shall ensure that adequate precautions are taken to avoid danger when the crane or the load is affected by rain, snow or ice.
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12 12.1 SLINGING AND HANDLING OF LOADS Load estimation, mass and centre of gravity (C of G)
12.1.1 Mass of the load The mass of the load shall be obtained by one or more of the following methods: (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) See if the mass is marked Check the mass stated on any documentation, as provided by the supplier Look at drawings of the load to see if the mass is marked Use a weighbridge to assess the mass Estimate the mass of the load by using tables of masses
12.1.2 Centre of gravity The centre of gravity, as defined in paragraph 2.7, is the “point at which the total mass of a body may be regarded as being concentrated, or about which the parts of a body exactly balance each other.” 12.1.3 Hooks and hook blocks To prevent displacement of an unloaded lifting attachment, the hook shall be provided with a safety catch or other efficient device. Alternatively the hook shall be of such a shape as to minimize the risk of the sling or load becoming detached.
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13 RAISING AND LOWERING OF PERSONS Only when the General Principles of Prevention imply that the use of a scaffold, hoist, mobile elevating platform, or similar working platform is not practicable, is the raising and lowering of persons by crane permitted (see Annex B).
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14 TESTS, INSPECTIONS AND CONDITION MONITORING Various tests and inspections are required to ensure that a crane is safe for use. The relevant requirements will be covered in a separate Part of this Code of Practice.
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ANNEX A (Informative) PERIODIC CHECKS A.1 General The appointed person shall ensure that the checks given in Sections A.2, A.3 and A.4 below have been carried out. Note — The crane driver may be authorised to carry out periodic checks to the extent that he is considered to be competent. A.2 Daily Checks At the beginning of each shift or working day, or within another safe interval as specified by the manufacturer that the crane is in use, the following routine checks, as appropriate for the type of crane concerned, and as required by the manufacturer’s handbook, where practical shall be carried out: (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) (g) (h) (i) check that all ropes are correctly positioned on their sheaves, and that drums have not been displaced; visually check that no electrical equipment is exposed to contamination by oil, grease, water or dirt; visually check, that no loss of fluids such as lubricating oil and coolant is apparent; check the operation of all limiting devices or cutouts and the dead man’s handle or lever, using caution in making checks in case of malfunction; check that the crane rated-capacity\ automatic safe load indicator is functional and that the required daily test of the device is carried out; check that the load-radius scale is appropriate to the jib configuration fitted if the equipment is separate from that in paragraph (e); by varying the load-lifting attachment radius without load, check the correct movement of the equipment in paragraphs (e) and (f); check that the correct air pressure is maintained in any pneumatic control system, e.g. brakes; check that the lights, windscreen wiper(s) and washers operate efficiently;
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(j) visually check the security of wheels and the condition of tyres, including tyre pressures, tread and wall wear on wheel-mounted cranes. Also check wheel nuts for tightness; check correct function of all crane controls without load; check satisfactory operation of all audible and visual warning devices, as required by the manufacturer’s instructions; in the interests of safety and fire prevention, check that the crane is in a tidy condition and free from tins of oil, rags, tools or materials other than those for which storage provision is made, that means of access and egress are not obstructed and that the appropriate fire-fighting equipment is available; check that the storm anchorages (where fitted) are satisfactory and that there are no obstructions in the path of travel of the crane; check effectiveness of brakes and clutches before start of operation; check that no tag out or layout devices are installed on the equipment or controls before the start of operation.
A.3 Weekly Checks Normally once a week - or within another safe interval as specified by the manufacturer or as more appropriate to the usage of the crane - when the crane is in use, in addition to the checks in A.2 the following checks as appropriate for the type of crane concerned shall be carried out. (a) (b) checks as required by the manufacturer’s handbook; visually inspect all ropes for broken wires, flattening, bird caging or other signs of damage, excessive wear and surface corrosion, and on Tower Cranes, check that the trolley rope break device is serviceable; check all rope terminations, swivels, pins and retaining devices and check all sheaves for damage, worn bushes or seizure; inspect the structure for damage, e.g. missing and bent bracings on bridges and strut jibs, bulges, indentations and unusual rubbing marks on telescopic jibs, cracked welds, loose bolts and other fasteners, etc.; check hook(s) and other load-lifting attachments, safety catch(es) and swivel(s) for damage, free movement or wear. Check the hook shank thread and securing nut for undue movement, which may indicate wear or
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corrosion; (f) (g) (h) (i) on hydraulic machines check for creep of hydraulic rams; on rail-mounted cranes check rails, end stops and ties, if fitted, and check existence and condition of guards to remove foreign material from rails; check slew lock, if fitted, and free slew, if applicable; enter results of checks in the record of inspections (where applicable, statutory forms shall be used);
(j) examine all crane ropes (see Section A4 below). Note:- It is recommended that crane ropes be examined every six months, and at more regular intervals when used in corrosive environments. (Rope inspections will be dealt with in a separate Part of this Code of Practice.) A.4 Crane not in regular use In cases where a crane is not in regular use, it may be necessary to carry out a programme of checks before it is used. The extent and thoroughness of this programme will depend not only on the length of the period that the crane was out of use but also on the location of the crane during this period. A crane standing under cover or inside a workshop may require very few checks in addition to the checks recommended in Sections A.2 and A.3, but a crane that has been out of use in the open and therefore exposed to the weather and atmospheric pollution, etc. may require an extensive appraisal to ensure its fitness for work. The appraisal shall include at least the following: (a) (b) (c) (d) any checks which may be recommended by the manufacturer; examination of all crane ropes for signs of corrosion and damage and ensuring that there is thorough lubrication; examination of all control linkage for evidence of seizure or partial seizure and ensuring that there is correct lubrication; testing of every crane motion for several minutes without load, each motion individually at first, then by combination of two or more motions simultaneously as appropriate. The test shall then be repeated with a load on the crane;
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(e) checking the correct functioning of all the crane safety devices;
(f) checking of hoses, seals or other components for evidence of deterioration. The result of all the tests shall be recorded with details of any corrective action taken to overcome any defects prior to the crane being returned to service.
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ANNEX B (Informative) RAISING OR LOWERING OF PERSONS B.1 General The raising or lowering of persons by crane shall only be undertaken in exceptional circumstances when it is not reasonably practicable to gain access by less hazardous means. Persons shall only be carried in properly designed platforms or cradles provided with suitable means to prevent persons or tools from falling out. Means shall be provided to prevent the platform or cradle from spinning (e.g. by the provision of a swivel or the use of multi-fall ropes) or tipping and it shall be clearly and permanently marked with the load that it can safely carry. The platform or cradle shall be inspected before use to ensure that it is still in a safe condition to carry persons. A record of all inspections shall be kept. No crane function shall be performed while a person is on the hook, load, man-lift platform, boom or other personnel-lifting device attached to the crane load line or boom, unless each of the specific special following requirements are met. B.2 Crane equipment The crane shall be equipped with: (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) B.3 a hoisting limiter; automatic brakes, such that when the controls are released the motions are brought to rest (dead man’s handle type control); power load-lowering. Note that raising and lowering of persons is only permitted on cranes with a free-fall capability disabled beyond use; for below ground-level operation, a hoist-lowering limiter; for hydraulic cranes with derricking or telescopic duties, check valves shall be employed when raising or lowering personnel; Special procedures
The following special procedures shall be followed when personnel are to be lifted:
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(a) The person specifically responsible for the overall work function to be performed shall determine that it is the least hazardous way to perform the necessary work or gain access to the area and s/he shall authorise its usage. The person responsible for the task shall issue a written statement describing the operation and its time frame. The statement, after being approved by the authoriser, shall be retained; For each instance of personnel lifting, the person responsible for the task shall determine that each of the following requirements below has been met; When used for lifting personnel, the crane shall be inspected daily; The lifting and supporting shall be made under controlled conditions and under the direction of an appointed signal person; A planning meeting, attended by the crane driver, slinger, person(s) to be lifted and supported and the supervisor responsible for the task shall be held to review procedures to be followed, including procedures for entering and leaving the personnel platform or cradle and to identify the location(s) persons will enter and leave; The driver and slinger shall conduct a test lift with equivalent mass of that to be lifted applied to the platform or cradle and verify adequacy of footing; Communication between the crane driver, slinger and person(s) being lifted shall be maintained; When welding is done by personnel from the platform or basket, the electrode holders shall be protected from contact with metal components of the platform or cradle; Personnel being lifted or supported shall wear safety harnesses with lanyards attached to designated anchor points within the personnel cradle; The operator shall remain at the controls when the platform is occupied; Movement of the work platform carrying personnel shall be done in a slow, controlled cautious manner, with no sudden movements of the crane or work platform. The lifting or lowering speed shall not exceed 30 m/min (0.5 m/s); Mobile cranes shall not travel while personnel are on a platform or in the cradle; The personnel being lifted or positioned shall remain in continuous sight or
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in communication with the operator or signal person; (n) (o) Cranes with outriggers shall have the outriggers extended and blocked; The total mass of the lifted load (including personnel) shall not exceed 50% of the crane rating under the planned conditions of use. The crane shall have a rated capacity of at least 1 000 kg; Suspended personnel platforms shall be used only for personnel, their tools and sufficient materials to do their work. They shall not be used for transporting bulk materials; Personnel shall keep all parts of the body inside the suspended platform during raising, lowering and positioning to avoid pinch points. Personnel shall not stand on or work from the top rail, midrail or toeboard of the suspended platform; If the platform cannot be landed, it shall be tied to the structure before personnel get off or on; Work platforms shall not be used in winds in excess of 7 m/s (25 km/h), electric storms, snow, ice, sleet or other adverse weather conditions which could affect the safety of personnel; After positioning of the work platform, all brakes and locks on the lift crane shall be set before personnel perform any work.
B.4 Rules for design and construction A platform which is designed and constructed in accordance with the following shall be used: (a) (b) (c) (d) The platform shall be designed by an appropriate and experienced person; The platform shall be limited to a capacity of three persons; The platform and attaching devices shall have a minimum design safety factor of 5; The platform shall have a plate specifying the mass of the empty platform and the maximum number of persons and mass for which the platform is rated; The platform shall have suitable fencing (e.g. with wire mesh or similar protection to a height not less than 950mm above the platform);
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(f) (g) (h) A grab rail shall be provided inside the suspended work platform to minimise hand exposure; It is recommended that the sides of the platform shall be enclosed from floor to midrail; If access doors are installed they shall open only to the interior of the platform. Access doors shall be equipped with a device to restrain the door from inadvertent opening; The platform shall have overhead protection, which shall not obstruct the visibility of the operator or occupant, when there is an overhead hazard; The platform shall be easily identifiable by high-visibility colour or marking; The platform shall be attached and secured by means such as (but not limited to) a shackle, hook (latched or moused) or wedge and socket attachment. A wedge and socket attachment shall have a clip on the free end of the load line; The suspension system shall minimise inclination of the platform due to the movement of personnel on the platform; All rough edges shall be ground smooth; All welds shall be inspected by a qualified person; All welding shall be performed by a competent welder.
(I) (m) (n) (o)
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ANNEX C (Informative) EXAMPLE OF COMMUNICATION SYSTEM C.1 General remarks It shall be noted that: • • • • • a limited number of signals shall be used for the purpose of communication signals shall be clearly different from each other to avoid misunderstanding hand signals shall only be used when conditions permit a clear understanding of them for the driver hand signals shall be as close as possible to intuitive gestures single-arm signals may be given by either arm
Where audio or visual methods are used, the equipment or its means of use shall be such that the driver(s) will be immediately aware of failure of the equipment, to enable the driver(s) to stop crane movements. C.2 (a) (b) Typical examples A blank screen on a television monitor shall immediately require a driver to stop all crane movements; a slinger using a radio shall continuously instruct the driver to lower a load, e.g. by repeating “Lower, lower, lower, ~•~” and failure of this continuous instruction from the slinger shall require the driver to stop all crane movements.
In the event of the driver not fully understanding the signal, he shall not initiate any crane motion. Before starting the lifting operation, the driver and the signaller shall decide upon a system of communication in the event of such a circumstance. C.3 Voice Messages Crane voice messages, shall be clearly understandable and given in the language of the driver/user.
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Statutory Provisions Safety Health and Welfare at Work Act, 1989 Safety Health and Welfare at Work (General Applications) Regulations, 1993 Safety Health and Welfare at Work (Construction) Regulations, 2001 Irish Standards IS/EN 471:1994 High-Visibility Warning Clothing IS/EN 61000-6-2:2001 Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) International Organization for Standardization ISO 12480 – 1: 1997 Cranes – Safe use – Part 1: General British Standards, Codes and Other Standards BS 7121-1:1989 Code of practice for Safe use of cranes, Part 1. General BS 7121-3:2000 Code of practice for Safe use of cranes, Part 3. Mobile cranes
I.S. EN 471: 1994 High Visibility Warning Clothing I.S. EN 61000-6-2: 2001 – Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC)
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AboutBrowse booksSite directoryAbout ScribdMeet the teamOur blogJoin our team!Contact UsPartnersPublishersDevelopers / APILegalTermsPrivacyCopyrightSupportHelpFAQAccessibilityPressPurchase helpAdChoicesMembershipsJoin todayInvite FriendsGiftsCopyright © 2016 Scribd Inc. .Terms of service.Accessibility.Privacy.Mobile Site.Site Language: English中文EspañolالعربيةPortuguês日本語DeutschFrançaisTurkceРусский языкTiếng việtJęzyk polskiBahasa indonesiaSafe Use of Crane in Construction Industry by shailesh vaja1.3K viewsEmbedRelated interestsConstruction, Safety, Occupational Safety And Health, Personal Protective Equipment, Crane (Machine)DownloadRead on Scribd mobile: iPhone, iPad and Android.Copyright: Attribution Non-Commercial (BY-NC)Download as PDF, TXT or read online from ScribdFlag for inappropriate contentMore informationShow less
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