Lifting Operations
Lifting Operations
Lifting Operations
Appointed Person
Course Handout
Sling Angles 48
Distance Between Lifting Points Affects the Sling Angles 49
Multi Leg Chain Slings – Grade 8 50
Mode Factors 51
Instructions for the Safe Use of Endless Round & Flat Web Slings 67
General Purpose Slinging Practice 68-69
SECTION 5 APPENDIX
Lifting Operations Safety Checklist 90
Proof of Hire Crane Hire Contracts 91
The LOLER regulations replaced the existing legal requirements relating to the use of lifting
equipment including accessories, for example the Construction (Lifting Operations) regulations 1961
and the Docks Regulations 1988.
These regulations aim to reduce risks to people’s health and safety from lifting equipment provided
for use at work.
The Crane Owner has a duty to: The Contractor is responsible for:
4 Moderate Wind raises dust and loose paper. Small 13-18 5-8
Breeze branches move.
9 Strong Gale Chimney pots, slates and tiles may be blown 47-54 21-24
off. Other slight structural damage may be
caused.
The forecast wind speeds given for use on land are at 10 metres height above ground level.
Wind speed increases with height.
Forecast wind speeds can be up to 30% lower at 3 metres above ground level due to
surface friction.
t/m 7m 8m 9m 10m 12m 14m 16m 18m 20m 22m 24m 26m 28m 30m 32m 34m 36m 38m 40m 42m 44m 46m 48m 50m 52m 54m
0.5t 20t 20t 20t 20t 20t 20t 20t 20t 20t 20t 25t 25t 35t 35t 50t 50t 70t 70t 80t 80t 80t 90t 120t 120t 120t 120t
1t 20t 20t 20t 20t 20t 20t 20t 20t 25t 25t 35t 35t 50t 50t 60t 70t 70t 70t 80t 80t 90t 100t 120t 120t 120t 120t
2t 20t 20t 20t 20t 20t 20t 25t 25t 35t 35t 50t 50t 60t 60t 70t 80t 80t 80t 90t 100t 100t 120t 120t 160t 160t 160t
3t 20t 20t 20t 20t 25t 25t 35t 35t 50t 50t 60t 70t 70t 80t 80t 90t 90t 100t 100t 120t 120t 160t 160t 160t 200t 200t
4t 20t 20t 20t 20t 25t 35t 35t 50t 50t 60t 70t 80t 80t 90t 90t 100t 100t 120t 120t 160t 160t 160t 160t 200t 225t 225t
5t 20t 20t 25t 25t 35t 35t 50t 50t 60t 70t 80t 80t 90t 100t 100t 120t 120t 160t 160t 160t 160t 200t 200t 225t 250t 300t
GROSS LOAD TO BE LIFTED IN TONNES
6t 25t 25t 25t 25t 35t 50t 50t 60t 70t 80t 90t 90t 100t 100t 120t 160t 160t 160t 160t 160t 200t 225t 225t 225t 250t 300t
7t 25t 25t 25t 35t 50t 50t 60t 70t 80t 90t 100t 100t 120t 120t 160t 160t 160t 160t 200t 200t 225t 225t 250t 250t 300t 300t
8t 25t 25t 35t 35t 50t 60t 60t 80t 90t 90t 100t 120t 120t 160t 160t 160t 200t 200t 225t 225t 250t 250t 250t 300t 300t 400t
9t 35t 35t 35t 50t 50t 60t 70t 80t 90t 100t 120t 120t 160t 160t 160t 200t 225t 225t 225t 250t 250t 250t 300t 300t 400t 400t
10t 35t 35t 35t 50t 60t 70t 80t 90t 100t 120t 160t 160t 160t 160t 200t 225t 225t 225t 250t 250t 250t 300t 400t 400t 800t 800t
11t 35t 35t 50t 50t 60t 80t 90t 100t 100t 120t 160t 160t 160t 200t 225t 225t 250t 250t 250t 300t 300t 300t 400t 800t 800t 800t
12t 35t 50t 50t 50t 70t 80t 100t 100t 120t 120t 160t 160t 160t 200t 225t 225t 250t 250t 300t 300t 300t 400t 500t 800t 800t 800t
13t 35t 50t 50t 60t 80t 80t 100t 120t 120t 160t 160t 160t 200t 200t 225t 250t 250t 250t 300t 300t 400t 400t 500t 800t 800t 800t
14t 50t 50t 50t 60t 80t 90t 100t 120t 120t 160t 160t 200t 200t 225t 250t 250t 250t 250t 300t 400t 400t 400t 500t 800t 800t 800t
15t 50t 50t 60t 70t 80t 100t 100t 120t 160t 160t 160t 200t 225t 225t 250t 250t 250t 300t 400t 400t 400t 400t 500t 800t 800t 800t
16t 50t 60t 60t 70t 80t 100t 120t 120t 160t 160t 200t 200t 225t 250t 250t 250t 300t 400t 400t 400t 400t 400t 800t 800t 800t 800t
17t 50t 60t 70t 70t 90t 100t 120t 160t 160t 160t 200t 225t 225t 250t 250t 300t 300t 400t 400t 400t 400t 400t 800t 800t 800t 800t
18t 60t 70t 70t 80t 90t 100t 120t 160t 160t 200t 200t 225t 250t 250t 250t 300t 400t 400t 400t 400t 400t 500t 800t 800t 800t 800t
19t 60t 70t 70t 80t 120t 120t 160t 160t 160t 200t 200t 250t 250t 300t 400t 400t 400t 400t 400t 400t 400t 500t 800t 800t 800t 800t
How to use this chart (Example) To lift 8 tonnes at 16m radius: Locate 8 tonnes on the vertical column (left hand side of page) and 16m on the top row. Where the columns
intersect read off the capacity of the crane required (60 tonne crane)
9
t/m 7m 8m 9m 10m 12m 14m 16m 18m 20m 22m 24m 26m 28m 30m 32m 34m 36m 38m 40m 42m 44m 46m 48m 50m 52m 54m
20t 60t 70t 80t 80t 100t 120t 160t 160t 200t 200t 225t 225t 250t 250t 300t 400t 400t 400t 400t 400t 400t 500t 800t 800t 800t 800t
21t 70t 70t 80t 80t 100t 120t 160t 160t 200t 200t 225t 250t 250t 300t 400t 400t 400t 400t 400t 400t 500t 800t 800t 800t 800t 800t
22t 70t 70t 80t 90t 100t 120t 160t 160t 200t 225t 225t 250t 250t 300t 400t 400t 400t 400t 400t 400t 500t 800t 800t 800t 800t 800t
23t 80t 80t 80t 90t 100t 120t 160t 160t 200t 225t 225t 250t 300t 300t 400t 400t 400t 400t 400t 500t 500t 800t 800t 800t 800t 800t
24t 80t 80t 80t 90t 120t 160t 160t 200t 200t 225t 250t 250t 300t 400t 400t 400t 400t 400t 400t 500t 500t 800t 800t 800t 800t 800t
25t 80t 80t 90t 100t 120t 160t 160t 200t 225t 225t 250t 300t 300t 400t 400t 400t 400t 400t 500t 500t 500t 800t 800t 800t 800t 800t
26t 80t 80t 90t 100t 120t 160t 160t 200t 225t 250t 250t 300t 300t 400t 400t 400t 400t 400t 500t 500t 500t 800t 800t 800t 800t 800t
GROSS LOAD TO BE LIFTED IN TONNES
27t 80t 80t 90t 100t 120t 160t 160t 200t 225t 250t 300t 300t 400t 400t 400t 400t 400t 500t 500t 500t 800t 800t 800t 800t 800t
28t 80t 80t 90t 100t 120t 160t 200t 200t 225t 250t 300t 300t 400t 400t 400t 400t 400t 500t 500t 500t 800t 800t 800t 800t
29t 80t 90t 100t 100t 160t 160t 200t 225t 250t 250t 300t 300t 400t 400t 400t 400t 400t 500t 500t 500t 800t 800t 800t 800t
30t 80t 90t 100t 100t 160t 160t 200t 225t 250t 300t 300t 300t 400t 400t 400t 400t 500t 500t 500t 800t 800t 800t 800t
31t 80t 90t 100t 120t 160t 160t 225t 225t 250t 300t 400t 400t 400t 400t 400t 400t 500t 500t 500t 800t 800t 800t 800t
32t 80t 90t 100t 120t 160t 160t 225t 225t 250t 300t 400t 400t 400t 400t 400t 400t 500t 500t 500t 800t 800t 800t 800t
33t 90t 100t 100t 120t 160t 160t 225t 225t 300t 300t 400t 400t 400t 400t 400t 500t 500t 500t 500t 800t 800t 800t
34t 90t 100t 100t 120t 160t 200t 225t 250t 300t 300t 400t 400t 400t 400t 400t 500t 500t 500t 800t 800t 800t 800t
35t 90t 100t 100t 120t 160t 200t 225t 250t 300t 300t 400t 400t 400t 400t 400t 500t 500t 500t 800t 800t 800t
36t 100t 100t 120t 160t 160t 200t 225t 250t 300t 300t 400t 400t 400t 400t 400t 500t 500t 800t 800t 800t 800t
37t 100t 100t 120t 160t 160t 200t 225t 300t 300t 400t 400t 400t 400t 400t 400t 500t 500t 800t 800t 800t
38t 100t 100t 120t 160t 160t 200t 225t 300t 300t 400t 400t 400t 400t 400t 500t 500t 500t 800t 800t 800t
39t 100t 100t 120t 160t 160t 225t 250t 300t 300t 400t 400t 400t 400t 400t 500t 500t 500t 800t 800t 800t
Note:
1. This is a load radius chart, no account has been taken for the height of lift. 3. Crane capacities vary from manufacturer to manufacturer.
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2. This chart is based on using a minimum main boom length of 20.0m 4. Lifting capacities vary with crane type (Truck Mounted or All Terrain)
In order for the Appointed Person to calculate the correct area of crane structural supports
for each outrigger jack the Allowable Bearing Pressure of the ground needs to be
determined by the Employing Organisation/Client/Principal Contractor.
A guide to presumed bearing loads can be found on P15 but this is not a substitute for a
proper ground investigation which must be carried out if any doubt exists about the current
ground conditions.
Fig 1 Laden crane: Boom directly over a jack Fig 2 Un laden crane: Counterweight
Very high outrigger load under front left jack. directly over a jack.
High outrigger load under right rear jack.
11
12
PLEASE NOTE:
This list does NOT cover all available mats; always contact your own crane
supplier as to the availability of various outrigger mats.
13
AREA OF MAT
=
LENGTH X WIDTH
RADIUS
DIAMETER
14
Cohesive Soils
Very Stiff Boulder Clays and Hard Clays >61.2 t/m2 300—600 kN/m2
Stiff Clays 15.3—30.6 t/m2 150—300 kN/m2
Firm Clay 7.6—15.3 t/m2 75—150kN/m2
Soft Clays and Silts <7.6 t/m2 <75 kN/m2
Very Soft Clay Not Applicable Not Applicable
Peat Not Applicable Not Applicable
Note 1: These tables are for preliminary guidance only. Consult an appropriate engineer if
there is any doubt regarding ground conditions.
Note 2: Ground bearing values are usually expressed in kN/m2. The conversion of kN/m2
into t/m2 is achieved by dividing the kN value by 9.81 in order to convert the bearing value
into t/m2 .
E.g. 400 kN/m2 converted into t/m2 = 400 ÷ 9.81 = 40.8 t/m2
15
NOTE:
Where any doubt exists as to the adequacy of the ground you as an
Appointed Person must seek the advice from a specialist Geotechnical engineer.
Site Categories
Sites can be categorised to highlight the most likely potential problems that need
to be considered. More attention is required to establish the strength of the ground
where ground conditions are poor or where there is lack of data on the nature of
the sub - soil.
Greenfield Sites
• No previous construction activities
• Problem areas are: adjacent to rivers, estuaries and high flood plains where soft
alluvial deposits and high ground water tables can be expected.
Beaches
• Low sand density and / or high/variable water table create difficult conditions.
16
Paved Areas
• These can look deceptively strong but may have been laid on weak
ground underneath.
• If a road is used regularly by heavy commercial vehicles and shows no sign
of distress then it will be less of a concern than a lightly trafficked car park
or estate road.
• Footpaths always demand further investigations Edges of paved areas are
usually weak as there may be weaker material or shallow services underneath
thin surfacing.
17
The Appointed Person is responsible for ensuring the ground conditions are suitable to
set up and operate the crane, and therefore safely carry out the lifting operation.
2. Ensure that this data has been assessed by a suitably competent person, such that
suitable support systems have been specified.
3. Ensure that the specified system of support has been correctly installed and
maintained.
Sources of Information:
1. Under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations, the client and the
designer have a duty to make available to the Planning Supervisor information
relating to the site.
3. In extreme cases physical load tests may have to be carried out in advance of the lifting
operation, to verify the load bearing capability of the ground.
The standard outrigger support equipment carried by most crane suppliers has been
proven by experience to provide effective load distribution in the majority of cases.
18
3. Installing larger load spreading supports with better load bearing materials
5. Utilising proprietary load spreading systems such as track way aluminium paneling.
NOTE:
These are typical maximum theoretical loadings, actual working loadings are generally
considerably lower, always consult your crane supplier.
19
EXAMPLE OF A RANGE DIAGRAM FOR A 55 TONNE ALL TERRAIN CRANE SHOWING THE
HOOK HEIGHTS & FULL COUNTERWEIGHT SWL’s FOR MAIN BOOM & FLY JIB
CONFIGURATIONS
24
Erection Sequence
26
2. Where a crane has twin hoist facility two hook blocks may be fitted. An allowance
for the combined weight of both hook blocks should be made.
3. Where a crane carries a fly jib stowed on the main boom (under slung or side mounted) the
safe working load should be reduced to allow for the additional weight.
This is not the case however with cranes manufactured by Tadano, Kato, Kobelco and PPM,
where the safe working load has been calculated with the fly jib carried in the stowed
position.
Chart Notes:-
4. DIN/ISO: The structural analysis is based on DIN 15018, part 2 and 3 as well as on FEM 5004
standards.
5. Tipping conditions are governed by DIN 15019, part 2 and ISO 4305 standards. They also
take into account the requirements of EN 13000: 2010 and therefore comply with the
requirements of the EU Machinery Directive & do not exceed 75% of the overturning load
limit.
6. For the DIN/ISO load charts , depending on boom length, crane operation may be
permissible at wind velocities of up to 10 m/s.
8. The lifting capacities for the telescopic boom only apply if the fly jib is taken off.
9. The working radius is the horizontal distance from the centre of rotation to the centre of
the freely suspended non - oscillating load.
10. For outrigger operation ALL outriggers shall be equally extended with the wheels clear of
the ground before raising the boom or lifting loads.
11. All capacities are for the crane on firm, level surface. It will be necessary to have structural
supports under the jack floats to spread the outrigger loads.
27
Warnings
Warning of approach to Safe Working Load are visual and audible and take place at
approximately 90% to 97.5% of maximum Safe Working Load.
Overload
Warning is visual and audible and the audible alarm is sufficiently loud enough to be
heard by those persons working in the vicinity of the crane. The overload warning to
activated at approximately 102.5% to 110% of Safe Working Load at any radii or
boom length.
BS 7262 - 1990
Under this British Standard which has been approved by the Health & Safety
Executive, Automatic Safe Load Indicators manufactured from 1990 onwards automatically
have approval under BS 7262 1990. Audible warning must be given to a stricter standard.
Overload
An audible warning to the crane operator and any person within a distance of 1.5 X the
maximum working radius of the crane.
In September 2000 the term Automatic Safe Load Indicator was discontinued and replaced
by the term Rated Capacity Indicator (R.C.I.).
Rated Capacity Indicators (R.C.I.’s) must be properly adjusted to suit the configuration and
Duty to which the crane is to be used normally carried out by the crane operator.
Adjustments may take the form of a cam, programme block or duty selector switch or
computer keypad entry.
28
SWL Display
29
APPROACH ON 11:36:50 SWL = 8.82t Load = 8.49t @ Radius = 6.6m @ Length = 16.1m
OVERLOAD ON 11:36:52 SWL = 8.82t Load = 9.32t @ Radius = 6.6m @ Length = 16.1m
R.C.L. ON 11:36:53 SWL = 8.82t Load = 9.74t @ Radius = 6.6m @ Length = 16.1m
R.C.L. OFF 11:36:56 SWL = 8.82t Load = 9.66t @ Radius = 6.6m @ Length = 16.1m
R.C.L. ON 11:36:57 SWL = 8.82t Load = 9.74t @ Radius = 6.6m @ Length = 16.1m
R.C.L. OFF 11:36:58 SWL = 8.82t Load = 9.66t @ Radius = 6.6m @ Length = 16.1m
R.C.L. ON 11:37:00 SWL = 8.82t Load = 9.74t @ Radius = 6.6m @ Length = 16.1m
R.C.L. OFF 11:37:01 SWL = 8.82t Load = 9.66t @ Radius = 6.6m @ Length = 16.1m
OVERLOAD OFF 11:37:06 SWL = 9.21t Load = 9.63t @ Radius = 6.3m @ Length = 15.4m
APPROACH OFF 11:37:09 SWL = 13.04t Load = 9.63t @ Radius = 5.7m @ Length = 14.3m
The above data shows that the crane operator overloaded the crane 3 times in 10 seconds and
in order to lift the load the operator retracted the boom whilst still trying to lift the load
i.e. trying to use the crane to drag a load into the SWL of the crane.
30
A truck mounted crane can travel on the highway and meet the requirements of the
Road Traffic Act. It is a fast and efficient way for it to be moved from one site to
another. It is compact and the small cranes carry all of their equipment in terms of
boom extension and hook block attachment. The duty of the crane may be 360
degrees or over side and rear only.
Wheeled Crane
The term wheeled crane relates to several types in terms of potential uses. Normally a
wheeled crane will only have one cab for use in travelling the crane around a site and
for operating it as a lifting appliance. The crane may have 2 or 4 wheel drive and
steering to enable it to traverse the rough or uneven ground often associated with
construction sites. Duties can be blocked or free on wheel. Wheeled cranes generally
are more manoeuvrable than truck cranes. They normally have 360 degrees duty.
Crawler Cranes
A crawler crane is fitted with tracks which enables the crane to negotiate soft uneven
ground without the problems associated with cranes that are fitted with wheels i.e.
truck or wheeled. They normally have 360 degree duties. Crawler cranes are normally multi
function i.e. piling, grabbing and bucket duties as well as crane duties.
An all terrain crane is a mixture of part truck crane for fast highway travel and part wheeled
crane for manoeuvrability and the ability to negotiate the conditions found on most
construction sites. It will normally have all wheel drive and steering. It is very manoeuvrable
and they have block duties over 360 degrees and some free on wheel duties.
Essentially this type of crane is a high mobility all terrain crane chassis with a self erecting
tower crane mounted on it. It can be used where there is requirement for a tower crane for
very short durations and it can be rigged and de-rigged very quickly. They can only work on
blocked duties through 360 degrees.
31
Chassis
Gives the crane mobility. It can be a truck mounted chassis, wheeled chassis or
Crawler Crane Chassis.
Slew Ring
Mounted on the chassis the Slew Ring is also secured to the upper works and it gives
the crane upper works the ability to rotate around and over the chassis of the crane.
Machinery Housing
That part of the upper works which encloses all machinery for the operation of the crane.
Crane Cab
Mounted on the upper works normally the position where the crane operator sits to
operate the crane.
Power Source
The Power Source of the crane can be transmitted in the following way for all crane
operations.
Diesel Electric
Diesel Hydraulic
Diesel Mechanical
Generally
Truck mounted, wheeled ,all terrain and self erecting tower cranes have outriggers which
increase the stability of the crane.
32
Outriggers
These are extendible structural members on the crane mounting to increase the effective
base on which the crane stands. They can be set for full or partial extension as required.
They must not be used with partial and full extension simultaneously.
Axle/Suspension Locks
These are devices which lock the axle or suspension movement relative to the carrier to
enable the crane to operate free on wheels.
Jib/Boom
There are 2 types of jib/boom fitted to mobile cranes – telescopic and lattice.
Telescopic Jib/Boom
Can be extended by hydraulic power to give increased lengths. They consist of
sections inside each other and are driven out as the need for a longer boom is
required. Fitted to the end of a telescopic jib/boom there can be an extension of a
lattice type which is a swing round extension, or a box section A frame configuration
of which is known as an under slung type. Generally fly jibs can be in line with the
main jib/boom or at an offset to the main jib/boom.
Lattice Jib/Boom
Generally fitted to crawler cranes and very heavy lifting cranes which can be of truck
type.
A lattice jib/boom consists of the foot section and the head section with insert sections of
varying lengths to enable the boom to be assembled in many configurations of length.
There are 4 basic functions that all cranes have and the terminology remains the same
for each type of crane. They are derricking, hoisting, lowering and slew or swing.
33
Luffing Jib
Detachable auxiliary fly jib normally of lattice construction fitted to the end of the main
jib/boom giving variable radii.
Derricking
The ability to raise or lower the jib/boom to achieve varying radii.
Slew
The ability to rotate the upper works around its axis to enable a load to be lifted and
place at different locations.
Telescoping
The ability to extend or retract the jib/boom by telescoping.
Hook Block
The pulley attached to the crane hook which is suspended in the fall (s) of the load
hoisting rope.
Falls of Rope
The Falls of Rope are the number of falls of hoist rope hanging from the boom head to
support the Hook Block.
Radius
Radius is a horizontal measurement from centre of rotation of the crane to vertical line
through centre of the hook block or load.
Outreach
Is a horizontal measurement from the hook to the nearest part of the crane other than the
boom.
34
35
36
Key
1 Undercarriage/Carrier
1.1 2 Axle Undercarriage
1.2 Wheel
1.3 Diesel Engine
4 1.4 Crane Travelling Cabin
3
1.5 Outrigger Beam
1.6 Outrigger Plate
2 Superstructure
2.1 Control System
2.4 2.1 2.5 2.3 2.2 Crane Operating Cabin
2.3 Counterweight
2.2
2.4 Luffing Cylinder
2.5 Hoist
3 Jib
4 Hook block
1.5 1.6 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4
Telescopic Jib Fly Jib (Swing Lattice Fly Jib Lattice Luffing Jib Guyed Main
Away) (Fixed) Boom
37
Intermediate Outriggers: Intermediate outriggers may be used where the crane duty chart
allows. Contact your crane supplier for specific outrigger loads.
Outrigger load: (point load) The force the crane will exert down through the jack floats into the
ground.
Rule of thumb – This force through any one outrigger jack can be
as much as 75% of the rigged weight of the crane and whatever
load is being lifted on fully extended outriggers.
Crane level: Crane must be set level for lifting duties. Hoist rope to remain
vertical for all lifting operations. Duty charts allow for safe working
based on crane being level.
Pressure angle: Generally when force is exerted by the crane it will leave the edge
of the support material at 450
Structural supports: Structural supports must reflect the pressure angle by being
pyramid in shape from the edge of the structural supports.
Failure to achieve this will mean that force is exerted will not be
spread over the whole area of the structural supports.
The supports could fail if the ground is not compacted as well as
was thought, this also applies to steel plates.
Wheels clear of ground: Suspension locks are used to keep the suspension and wheels
compressed against the chassis to act as ballast to help stabilise
the crane.
If the wheels are on the ground the crane is not in a blocked
operating condition and this will significantly affect the stability of
the crane.
38
Correct. Crane is on fully extended outriggers with the wheels just off the ground. The
crane has correct “blocked duties” for the lifting operation.
Fig 2.
Incorrect. Crane has lost stability because the wheels are touching the ground. The crane
no longer has the safe set up for correct “blocked duties” on outriggers.
Fig 3.
Incorrect. Crane is on unequally extended outriggers. The crane R.C.I. cannot be set for this
condition and there are no duty charts for this outrigger configuration. Full and partial
outriggers must not be used simultaneously.
39
NOTE:
Crane Operators are not, nor are they meant to be Geotechnical Engineers. On many
sites an Operators experience and expertise will determine a safe crane set up.
However if doubt exists the Appointed Person must be contacted or a suitable
Engineer to determine the continuing suitability of any ground.
Appointed Person:
In accordance with Regulation 8 of The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment
Regulations and BS 7121 Part 1 General, every lifting operation must be properly
planned, supervised and carried out safely, this is the responsibility of the Appointed
Person – EVERY LIFT MUST HAVE ONE.
40
Most Crane Hire Companies can arrange cover on your behalf usually at an additional cost of
15% of the hire charges (or a minimum charge of £30 whichever the greater.)
– Should the customer require cover for Lifted Goods this is available at £5.00 per £1000 of the
value of the goods lifted.
– If your crane hire company does provide insurance cover under the terms and conditions
of CPA HIRE generally there will be the following CONDITIONS:
– Loss or damage to their own plant and equipment will be fully covered.
– There will be no recovery of costs due to machines being "off the road" for repairs.
42
Many Crane Hire companies will supply the crane, operator, along with an
Appointed Person and will take responsibility for the lift.
– Loss or damage to the contractor’s plant caused solely by the negligence of the
contractor in the performance of the lifting contract.
NOTE:
The contractor will not be held responsible or liable for:
• Any defect in the goods including any design defect and any defect relating to
lifting points.
• Loss of use of the contract goods or any other property or consequential
loss of any kind.
• Any loss, damage or injury arising in whole or in any part from the
negligence of the client.
For the purpose of this information the "contractor" is the crane hire
company under which the terms and conditions of The Construction
Plant Association (CPA) Insurance for Contract Lift Operations Apply.
43
• The Appointed Person should consult the Aerodrome Manager for permission to work if a crane is to be
used within 6 Km of the Aerodrome measured from its perimeter, and if its height exceeds 10 m above
ground level or that of the surrounding structures, trees etc.
• The term "Aerodrome" includes Airports, Airfields and Heliports where aircraft and
helicopters land and take off. The unauthorised operation of cranes and other high lifting equipment in
the vicinity of such places could present a serious hazard to aircraft and helicopters either as a physical
obstruction or by interfering with electronic precision guidance equipment.
• The risk to pilots and aircrew who are unaware of such equipment when flying could result in an aircraft
or helicopter colliding with such equipment resulting in an accident.
• The developer or crane operator should approach the Aerodrome concerned at least one month in
advance of requiring the use a crane or other tall construction equipment to find out if there are any
limitations and regulatory procedures that must be agreed upon before work commences.
• At least three days prior to delivery of the crane the operator must report to the Aerodrome with precise
details of the crane or lifting equipment to be used on site and applies for the permit to set up and use
the specified equipment. Information must be provided on the type of crane that is to be used Tower or
Mobile, the length and radius of operation of the boom, the area of operation along with intended
times and dates of operations, applicants name and contact details and contact details for the crane
when operating.
• The permit will set out the criteria and any specific restrictions. A copy of the permit must
remain with the crane operator for the duration of the lifting operation and must be produced if
requested by an Aerodrome, CAA official or a Police Officer.
• Once these details have been considered it will be determined as to whether the operation can proceed,
any of the following conditions may be imposed.
The fitting of red obstacle lights normally they will be steady red lights of either 200 or 2000
candelas depending on height and visible throughout 360 degrees.
• Restrictions during periods of poor visibility, this may require the boom to be lowered or positioned in a
particular direction.
44
45
46
Polyester Slings
47
Leg Tension
Values:-
1 tonne load
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30° 60°
0.5 X leg length = 30° 1 X leg length = 60°
Eg. 6 metre long sling X 0.5 = Eg. 6 metre long sling X 1.0
3 metres distance between = 6 metres distance between
lifting points lifting points
90°
1.4 X leg length = 90°
Maximum recommended included angle
Eg. 6 metre long sling X 1.4 = 8.4 metres distance
between lifting points
120°
1.75 X leg length = 120°
For special application only
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Important. 4 leg chains are rated the same as 3 leg chains for the angles of 00 - 900 α or 00- 450ß.
This is because it is recognised that it is impossible to load all 4 legs with equal leg tension with a
rigid load.
50
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
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52
When using single accessories inclined to each other, the maximum included angle of 90
degrees (alpha angle) or 45 degrees (beta angle) should not be exceeded.
To allow for the increasing leg tension (stress/force) we as users are required to obtain a
revised W.L.L..
For inclined lifting using single, vertically rated lifting accessories – the following Uniform
load method should be used.
The various mode factors are applied by multiplying the W.L.L. of the lifting accessory by
the appropriate mode factor.
The W.L.L. for 2 vertically rated accessories to be used for inclined loading can be calcu-
lated by using the following simple formula on suspended loads.
THE FACTOR OF 1.4 x THE S.W.L. OF 1 ACCESSORY WILL GIVE THE TOTAL LOAD THAT MAY
BE LIFTED BY THE 2 ACCESSORIES TOGETHER, AS A PAIR.
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THE FACTOR OF 1.4 x THE W.L.L. OF 1 ACCESSORY X 0.8 WILL GIVE THE TOTAL LOAD THAT
MAY BE LIFTED BY THE 2 ACCESSORIES TOGETHER, AS A PAIR.
The S.W.L. for 3 or 4 vertically rated single accessories to be used at inclined loadings, will
be calculated using the same method except for using a factor of 2.1
THE FACTOR OF 2.1 x THE W.L.L. OF 1 ACCESSORY WILL GIVE THE TOTAL LOAD THAT MAY
BE LIFTED BY THE 3 or 4 ACCESSORIES TOGETHER, AS A SET.
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14 t
Where the load has no lifting points using 2 single accessories. The load weight divided by the
factor of 1.4 and then by the factor of .8 for the choke hitch will give the minimum W.L.L.
requirement of each accessory required to safely lift the load.
2.24 t
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Where the load has 3 or 4 lifting points using single accessories. The load weight divided by the
factor of 2.1 by the will give the minimum W.L.L. requirement of each accessory to safely lift the
load.
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The W.L.L. of a multi leg Accessory has been determined (usually by the manufacturer) to allow
for the leg tension (stress/ force) that is being generated by the sling angle. The latest method
of marking incorporates "Working Load Limit."
The markings of 0° – 45° are Uniform and refer to the angle of each sling leg from the vertical.
Therefore a multi leg sling marked in this way is identical to a sling marked in the older 0°– 90°
but is expressed in a different way, however care must be taken to ensure that each leg remains
within the angle of 0°– 45° from the vertical when lifting out of level loads.
However the marked W.L.L. on the multi leg accessory only applies to their use on suspended
loads. i.e. those with lifting points.
If they are being used to support a load using choke hitch then the user must down rate the
W.L.L. of the multi leg accessory to compensate for the additional loading on the bight.
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The W.L.L. Of 3 and 4 leg multi leg accessories are rated identically due to the potential for
redundancy in one leg of a 4 leg accessory.
However as with 2 leg assemblies the marked W.L.L. on the multi leg accessory only applies
to their use on suspended loads i.e. with lifting points.
If they are being used to support a load using choke hitch then the user must down rate the
W.L.L. of the multi leg accessory to compensate for the additional loading on the bight.
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The W.L.L. of 3 and 4 leg multi leg accessories are rated identically due to the potential for
redundancy in one leg of a 4 leg accessory.
When using 2 x 2 leg assemblies for a temporary 4 point lift then the combined W.L.L. can
be calculated by using the mode factor of 1.5 X W.L.L. of one set to give the combined
W.L.L.
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Using the chain chart (P50) the actual WLL for the 2 leg chain
will be 16t W.L.L.
14t
Where the load has no lifting points and is lifted using choke hitch (double wrap shown). The
load weight divided by the factor of 0.8 will give the minimum S.W.L. Of the 2 leg chains re-
quired to safely lift the load.
EG. Load weight 5.6 tonnes therefore :- 5.6 tonnes di-
vided by 0.8 for choke hitch = minimum of 7t W.L.L.
requirement for the two leg chains to lift a 5.6 tonne
load.
Using the chain chart (P50) the actual WLL for the 2 leg
chains will be 7.5t W.L.L.
5.6t
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Where the load has 4 lifting points using multi leg accessories. The load weight divided by the
factor of 1 will give the minimum W.L.L. of the leg chains required to safely lift the load.
Using the chain chart (P50) the actual WLL for the 4 leg chains
will be 11.2t W.L.L.
10.6t
Where the load has no lifting points and is lifted using choke hitch (single wrap shown). The load
weight divided by the factor of 0.8 will give the minimum S.W.L. Of the 4 leg chains required to
safely lift the load.
Using the chain chart (P50) the actual WLL for the 4 leg chains
will be 11.2t W.L.L.
8.6t
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13.7t
1. Where the WLL or length of lifting accessories used are known apply the appropriate
mode factor by multiplying by the WLL/length of the accessory by the correct mode
factor in order to determine the maximum combined WLL’s/sling angle.
2. Where the weight or dimensions of the load are known apply the appropriate mode
factor by dividing the load weight/dimension by the correct mode factor in order to
determine the minimum required WLL of the accessories and correct sling angle.
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64
65
66
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Make a trial lift and set down, ensuring the sling will This Information is of a general nature and
not become trapped. Use supports, which are strong should always be read in conjunction with
enough to sustain the load. manufacturers instructions.
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– DO stand where you can be clearly THE CRANE OPERATOR WILL TAKE SIGNALS
seen by the crane operator if and
FROM ONE PERSON ONLY, UNLESS IT IS THE
when giving signals.
SIGNAL FOR STOP AND EMERGENCY STOP
WHICH ANY OTHER PERSON INVOLVED
CAN GIVE.
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JIB UP JIB DOWN EXTEND JIB RETACT JIB TRAVEL TO ME TRAVEL FROM ME
These are the recommended hand signals. Other hand signals are used in practice - this is
allowable as long as the signals are agreed & used by all the personnel involved before the
lifting operation starts.
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When radio is used as a means of signalling, the channel selected should be kept clear of all
other communications. All personnel involved in the signalling should be given a clear and
unique call sign and all communications should be preceded by this call sign. The crane
operator should not respond to any command that is not preceded by the given call sign.
During the carrying out of the lifting operation, hand signals and any voice instruction to
the crane operator (s) should only be given by one person at a time.
A slinger/signaller using a radio should continuously instruct the operator to lower a load,
e.g. by saying “Lower-lower-lower...”, and failure of this continuous instruction from the
slinger/signaller indicates that the operator should halt all crane movements.
If, during the lifting operation, responsibility for directing the crane and load is to be
transferred to another nominated person, the slinger/signaller should clearly indicate to
the crane operator that this responsibility is being transferred and to whom, and the
slinger/signaller should clearly indicate to the new nominated person that this transfer is
taking place.
Furthermore, the operator and the new nominated person should clearly indicate that they
accept the transfer of responsibility.
It is vital for safety that all voice signals given to the crane operator by the slinger/signaller
are from the crane operators viewpoint in the cab especially when slewing.
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Working at Height Falls from height (injury) Only trained and compe-
Falling Materials tent persons to be used.
Fall/Edge Protection. Res-
cue Plan with suitable har-
nesses/ hook on points.
Environmental (Weather) Crane collapse load insta- Weather conditions to be
bility monitored at all times and
lifting not to take place if
conditions outside of
manufacturers recommen-
dations. Ground conditions
to be monitored.
Moving Plant Injury to persons coming Tested, inspected & main-
into contact with plant and tained plant. Trained &
or damage to property comp operator. Traffic only
routes. Vehicle banksmen
and pedestrian only routes.
Signage.
Moving loads Falling materials, injury to Only trained & competent
persons. Collision with slinger signallers. Correct
proximity hazards and certificated lifting ac-
cessories. Trial lifts with
and without loads.
Crushing Zones Injury (persons). Damage to Ensure sufficient clearance
property / Plant or physical barriers.
Ensure hook block central
& allow for deflection. Only
trained & competent
personnel.
Working “Blind” Injury or damage due to Suitable radios with agreed
operator not being able to signals and / or second
see load, lifting or landing signaller. No signal no
places lifting or lowering
Where other hazards exist as identified in the “proximity” or “load hazards” sections then
indicate these together with all risks & control measures. Like working near water, the airport or
live plant. Look at all the things that could go wrong e.g. pedestrians, access/ egress & implement
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By making these few notes it is easier to follow the system of work through.
It is no use bringing the load in before the crane if it will interfere with the crane set up.
If additional ballast is needed with a crane then the transport for that needs to be taken into
account.
If a fly jib extension is needed to be fitted for use on the crane then that needs to be added
into your plan. (Note the fly jib is fitted to the minimum boom & then the boom extended to
working height)
Don’t forget that you will need to identify exactly how the slingers are going to access the
load to attach the slings and when it has been landed how are they going to remove the
slings. If you do not tell them and an accident occurs then it is your fault for not identifying a
safe system of work.
Think about the slings being used. If they are heavy then the crane needs to be used to move
them around but they will still need attaching and detaching to the load and that can be a
problem with heavier slings. Do you need a cherry picker and if so who will be operating it.
Do you need other personnel to secure the load into position and if so they need to be part
of the plan and briefed accordingly.
When your outline is in place then you can start with the order of events. Don’t forget to
number each individual action and if you do make a mistake and miss something out you can
always add it later and identify where it should go e.g. 4a or 7a if it needs to go in after that
point.
You can use the following as a template but make sure that you make your plan specific to
the lift being done.
1. Crane supervisor on site to check the lifting and landing areas are prepared and that the
crane can access and egress safely.
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3. The crane can now be banked into position by the crane supervisor and rigged in
accordance with the manufacturers operating procedures and the planned safe system of
work with additional ballast if required. The crane operator will check all limits and carry
out a 360 degree slew of the crane to check for level (where possible). Any issues MUST
be reported to the crane supervisor. The crane operator will then set the boom / Fly jib (if
used) as per the plan and set the RCI for the planned duties.
4. The trailer for transporting the load can now be brought into position and any road
closures or exclusion zones put into place. (Note if the load needs to be released from the
transport it is good practice to secure it to the crane before removing any load restraints).
5. A Slinger / signaller (identify as No 1 or 2 etc.) will check the route of the load for hazards
or obstructions not already identified and prepare the lift / landing area to receive the
load. Report any issues to Crane supervisor.
6. A Slinger / signaller (identify) will check the load lifting attachment points for suitability. .
Report any issues to Crane supervisor.
7. A Slinger / signaller (identify) will select the lifting accessories as per the plan and ensure
that they have the required certification. . Report any issues to Crane supervisor.
8. A Slinger / signaller (identify) will attach the lifting accessories to the crane hook block and
inspect them for damage. Report any issues to Crane supervisor.
9. With all personnel in place and all checks carried out a Slinger / signaller (identify) will
signal the crane operator to hoist, derrick and slew to a position where the hook block is
above the centre of the load. (Note: The Slinger / signaller may have to access the load for
this purpose and therefore you need to identify how?)
10. Slinger / signaller (identify) will now attach the lifting accessories to the load using
(describe method. E.g. footed ladder / step up/ cherry picker).
11. Crane Supervisor will stop the lift at this point and check the wind speed with the crane
operator to ensure that it is limits for the crane configuration being used, if the wind speed
is within safe limits the lift can proceed.
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13. Slinger / signaller (identify) to signal the crane operator to hoist, derrick and slew to a
position where (if required) a second Slinger / signaller (identify) can see the load. Hand
over the signalling to the second Slinger / signaller (if required).
14. Slinger / signaller to signal the crane operator to hoist, derrick and slew to the landing
position. Lower the load into position (Note using assistance if required and where stated
make sure that the load is secured into position).
15. When the load has been secured into position. The Slinger / signaller can access the load
(Note remember to identify how?) and remove the accessories from the load.
16. Signal the crane operator to return the accessories back to the ground where they can be
checked for work related damage before being returned to safe storage.
17. IF the load is to be removed from site then now is the time to identify that the load has
been secured on the transport and the transport vehicle has been escorted from site.
18. The Crane supervisor will instruct the crane operator to derig the crane in accordance
with the manufacturers operating procedures. (Note including any fly jib / ballast removal
where required).
19. The Crane supervisor will debrief the lift team and note any issues arising from the lift.
Sign off all permits / paperwork and ensure that the crane is safely escorted from site.
20. The Crane supervisor will ensure that the site is clear and hand back to the client for
removal of any restrictions.
Contingency Statement:
Probably the most important part of the method statement in that it will afford the Ap-
pointed person some protection in the event of any accidents, incidents, damage or injury
arising out of the planned lift. It should read something like this.
“If there are any changes to any part of this lift plan then all operations will be halted and
the appointed person consulted. No further lifting is to take place until any changes made
by the appointed person in writing have been agreed AND attached to this plan. All of the
persons involved in this plan have the necessary authority to stop the lift if they consider it
unsafe in any way”
Don’t forget to sign and date the method statement / risk assessment as without a signature
it is worthless and it gives you as the Appointed Person ownership of the document.
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Everything starts from the centre of rotation (C./R). So firstly mark the centre of rotation
on your drawing.
You will notice that the measurements shown are in millimetres so please round up or
down to make your drawing easier to scale using your scale ruler e.g. 3330 round up to
3.4m or 6275 round down to 6.2m.
1. Show the Tail Swing Radius (This is the counterweight swing radius) and will be shown either
on the top drawing from the C./R to the back of the counterweights or on the bottom drawing
from the C./R to the rear.
2. Now find the distance from the C./R to the rear of the crane (A) and mark that in from the
C./R to the centre of the rear of the crane.
3. Now find the width of the crane (B) (sometimes this is shown as a letter B, C etc. If so use the
legend at the bottom and pick the measurements from the size 16.00 tyres). Draw in the rear of
the crane (it should just fit inside the tail swing radius circle).
4. Now the length of the crane chassis NOT the full crane length including boom. Shown at (C).
Draw in the length and the width again making an oblong shape of a crane.
5. You now need to draw the outrigger positions. Start at the rear left hand side (nearside). You
will see the measurement from the C./R to the centre of the Jack (D) mark that position from the
C./R
6. The spread of the riggers across the back of the crane is shown at (E) remember this is from
the centre of the crane so measure from the centre half width either way.
7. The front left hand side (nearside) jack is shown at (F) Draw this in then slightly offset the
offside.
8. Draw the mats to scale (mat sizes are shown on your mat sheet e.g. 2.5m2 is a 2m x 1.25m
oblong.
9. Show the true dimension of the outrigger spread on your drawing (in this example 6000mm x
6275mm on the nearside)
10. Show your working radius on the drawing to prove that the load can be lifted / landed within
that radius.
11. Show the load pick up or final position remembering to stay within your minimum radius.
77
Cranes
Hook Allow 1 Metre
Load
Boom Pivot 2 Metres Behind
Centre of Rotation & 3
Metres From Ground Level Obstacles + Set
Down Point
Radius
Centre of Centre of Gravity
Rotation (C/G) of Load
78
Hook 2 Metres
Tower Cranes
Below Jib
Radius
Centre of
Rotation Centre of Gravity
79
(C/G) of Load
2 Leg Chain Sling 4.25Ton SWL 0°-90° TSO3AGL 70B 29/07/11 18/06/99 Good working order
2 Leg Chain Sling 4.4Ton SWL 0°-90° C301 ACH 6A 29/07/11 04/03/98 Good working order
2 Leg Chain Sling 4.25Ton SWL 0°-45° ATSC 2A 29/07/11 14/06/04 Good working order
Single leg wire rope sling 2Ton SWL 4Mtr EWL 4of ATSWR 2A-2D 29/07/11 01/12/04 Good working order
Single leg wire rope sling 2 Ton SWL 4Mtr EWL 4 of ATSWR 1A-1D 29/07/11 22/06/04 Good working order
Master Link 13.1Ton SWL 0° GWSD 8383 29/07/11 06/11/00 Good working order
Master Link 8.8Ton SWL 0° ATSM 1A 29/07/11 09/05/02 Good working order
This document conforms to S.I. No° 2307 Lifting Operation Lifting Equipment Regulations Next Inspection Required by 13/07/2012
1998 Regulation 9 Schedule 1
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Mobile cranes in the UK were often subjected to overload testing and thorough
examination at four yearly intervals, in addition to the periodic through examinations
required by the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER).
This is a legacy from the requirements of the old Construction (Lifting Operations)
Regulations, which were replaced by the introduction of LOLER in 1998. The Approved
Code of Practice (ACOP) to LOLER states that testing is at the discretion of the competent
person carrying out a thorough examination and that the competent person will decide on
the nature of the test and the method of carrying it out.
The Construction Plant-hire Association (CPA) have been working with the HSE and other
organisations on best practice guidance for the maintenance, inspection and
thorough examination of mobile cranes. They have concluded that four yearly proof
load testing is not required where periodic through examinations are carried out to a
defined scope of thorough examination, identifying those parts of the mobile crane
that should be thoroughly examined, together with any required supplementary
supporting reports and tests.
A "Declaration of Compliance" for use by members who wish to show that they have
embraced the "defined written scope" approach to thorough examination and will no
longer be undertaking four yearly overload tests. This document could take the place of a
four year test certificate in the file of documents accompanying the crane.
As more crane owners adopt the “defined written scope” approach to thorough
examinations the 4 yearly proof load test will gradually be phased out during the transition
period of adopting the “defined written scope”.
This approach, although endorsed by HSE, appears to have met some resistance from
customers, who still want to see a four year test certificate when a crane arrives on site. To
overcome this resistance to change the Crane Interest Group have published the attached
Technical Information Note TIN 102 on "Four Yearly Testing of Mobile Cranes (Wheeled and
Crawler)", which has again been endorsed by the HSE.
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86
87
88
89
90
91
Gross Load = kg
92
Gross Load = kg
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Gross Load = kg
94
Gross Load = kg
95
Gross Load = kg
96
Gross Load = kg
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Gross Load = kg
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Gross Load = kg
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