Tower crane considerations
A summary of high level information for consideration throughout the life cycle stages of a tower crane.
This document provides a summary of high level information for consideration throughout the life cycle stages of a tower crane.
Design
- Complies with AS1418 parts 1 and 4, or equivalent.
- Design registered if required, including verification by an independent design verifier.
- Item registered if required, and registration is current.
Pre-erection inspection and testing
- Performed by a competent person as per manufacturer’s requirements or AS 2550.4.
- Non-destructive testing of critical areas and high stress components as required.
- Inspection and testing documented, records available on request.
Erection and commissioning
- Geotech report and confirm suitability of crane foundation/grillage/standing area.
- Erection as per manufacturer’s requirements, and ensure stability at all times.
- Commissioning includes testing correct functioning of safety devices.
Specific training
- Appropriate high risk work licences – crane operator, dogging/rigging etc.
- Specific competency – crane make/model, working at heights, rescue, fire fighting etc.
- Site requirements – induction, emergency procedures/contacts, traffic management.
Ongoing inspection and maintenance
- Inspections – daily, routine, periodic and major – per manufacturer’s requirements or AS 2550.4.
- Construction schedule includes time for maintenance.
- Inspection and maintenance documented, records available on request.
Site operational hazards
- Collision hazards – adjacent buildings, structures, overhead power lines, mobile plant etc.
- Multiple cranes operating in close proximity.
- Site issues – crane access, mains power access, loading zone restrictions, wind exposure, operations over public spaces.
Dismantle and removal
- Identify location(s) for secondary crane to dismantle primary crane.
- Existence of new structure.
- Traffic management plan for complete dismantling, including areas for transportation vehicles to wait, load and exit.
Further information
- Australian standard AS 2550.1-2011 Cranes, hoists and winches-safe use-general requirements
- Australian Standard AS 2550.4-2004 Cranes, hoists and winches - safe use - tower cranes
- Australian Standard AS 1418.1-2002/Amdt 1-2004 Cranes, hoists and winches general requirements
- Australian Standard AS1418 Part 4 Cranes, hosts and winches – tower cranes
- Risk of falls when using tower cranes.
- Tower cranes – critical faults
- Tower cranes – key messages to industry.
Acknowledgements
Industry plant consultative committee comprising SafeWork NSW, the Master Builders Association of NSW and the Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union.