Page 51 - HIL Operatives Training Manual V4 16022024_Neat

O P E R A T I V E S T R A I N I N G M A N U A L V E R S I O N 4

13.2 Mobile Cranes

• Any mobile crane, whether owned by the
Company or hired, must be suitable for
the lifting task in hand and rated with a
Safe Working Load (SWL) above the
heaviest load and radius required.
• Mobile cranes must undergo a thorough
examination at least every 14 months and
the operators must be able to produce an
up-to-date test certificate. Similarly, any
lifting gear associated with the crane must
have sufficient capacity (SWL) and have
been examined within the past six
months.
• The Managing Director, Project Engineer or Contracts Managers planning mobile crane
activities must be in consultation with the crane hire company and crane driver, carry
out a risk assessment including consideration of ground weight limitations, concealed
ducts, services and weak surfaces and whether the ground surfaces are sufficiently
level. The crane driver is to be informed of both general and specific hazards on the
site. Where necessary, the client should be consulted on routes to be taken and if
spreader plates will be required.
• When arranging the hire or use of a mobile crane, the Manager concerned should
arrange for the hire company to supply a competent person to manage, plan, control
and supervise as part of the hire contract.
• The Managing Director, Project Engineer, or Contracts Managers must be on site
during any lifting operations and ensure that the hire company has provided a
competent person to manage the lifting task.
• Mobile cranes must only be operated by trained and experienced persons who are
experienced in the type of lift being undertaken.

Mobile cranes must be sited to ensure that -

1. They are position on a firm and level base which is capable of supporting the crane and
its load.
2. They are sufficiently far from any excavations, unsupported edges or from any structure
which may come into contact with the crane when rotating, or where persons may be
at risk of crushing from movement of any part of the crane.
3. The driver has a clear view
4. There is no risk of contact with overhead cables or obstructions

• Where the operators view may be unavoidably restricted, the driver must be directed
by a competent banks man or signaller.

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