All cranes have a maximum design wind speed for safe operation. When the wind speed exceeds this limit the crane must be taken out of service. Different types of crane, different models of the same type of crane and different configurations of the same model may operate with different maximum wind speeds. The operating wind speed for the crane will allow for

the load having a certain wind area; if this is exceeded then the working wind speed will need to be reduced (see the manufacturer’s manual for information on this).

Typical maximum operating wind speeds are:

Mobile Cranes 9.8 m/s (22 m.p.h.) Beaufort Scale 5

Hazards best avoided, where possible, include:

• Overhead electric lines
• Nearby structures
• Other cranes
• Railways
• Public access areas
• Airfields

Where any part of the crane or its load cannot be kept clear of these hazards, the appropriate authority, e.g. a local electricity supplier or Railtrack, must be consulted.

Danger from vaults or underground services must not be overlooked, and suitable precautions must be taken where they cannot be avoided.

Where the crane or its load passes closer than 600mm to an obstacle, effective precautions must be taken to avoid crushing, by preventing personnel accessing the area.

Where a crane is to be used within 15 metres plus the length of its jib, from overhead power lines on steel towers, (or 9 metres plus the length of the jib, from overhead lines on wood, concrete or steel poles) the guidance given in HSE Guidance Note GS6 must be followed.

Where a crane will work close to railway property (i.e. if it fell over and any part of it, or any load being lifted by it, could fall on railway property), consult the railway property owner and CPES.

If the crane is within 6 km of an airfield, and its height exceeds 10 m or that of the surrounding structures or trees, then the Appointed Person should seek the permission of the airfield manager before starting operations.

Cranes have very high axel weights, and need good solid ground the same as a lorry would need. You will also need to make sure there are no sharp objects in the path of the crane when gaining access to the site.