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Crane Safety Factors

Posted: Fri Jul 17, 2009 9:31 am
by Chris Achilles
There has been another crane failure in Liverpool recently which caused a block of flats to be evacuated and may lead to possible demolition. Luckily there were no fatalities on this occasion but there have been plenty in the past. There does not seem to be a month go by when a crane incident does not make the headlines in some way. Surely for there to be this many incidents repeating then something fundermental must be wrong. Having spoken to various "experts" I'm led to belive that the saftey factors for cranes are extremly low around the 5% mark as opposed to 20% to 60% for structures. Does anyone know the actual safety factor figures as 5% seems extremely low and foolish in my opinion?

Has anyone got any ideas on reducing incidents apart from increasing the safety factors?

Has anyone got any crane tales they would like to share?

Does anyone know what amount of incidents is acceptable? (Zero in a perfect world).

Re: Crane Safety Factors

Posted: Tue Dec 21, 2010 1:20 pm
by Chris Achilles
Another Crane failure this time in New Zealand.

See the link below to watch the vid.

The Banksman does not know which way to run!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xz71eVreMDc

Re: Crane Safety Factors

Posted: Tue Jan 27, 2015 8:08 am
by Sumer
The note regarding notching the top flange for access if plate extensions are not acceptable is a way to limit any potential trip hazard. If the base lands on a raised plinth then this should not be a problem. If it lands on a flat slab then access around the base should be considered and the top notch approach should be used to limit any trip hazard. Alternatively move the plate back below the bottom tread and have the bolts inside if possible. This will mean fixing the bottom tread after the base has been fixed so not as suitable if the stairs are pre-assembled. Something to consider if a trip hazard is likely.