Lift Planning Services: Achieve the Right Crane Setup and Positioning on Site
July 7, 2023Lift planning is an essential process of planning and organising a crane lift operation, which may involve crane setup, crane positioning, and many more. It is carried out to ensure the load will be lifted properly without generating damages and injuries on site.
Now, two critical factors that determine the safety and efficiency of a lift are crane setup and positioning. Improper crane setup and positioning can result in accidents, damage to property, and delays in the construction project. Hence, all the necessary steps must be taken to ensure that the crane will be set up and positioned correctly before beginning the lift.
Here are some tips on how to achieve the right crane setup and positioning.
Carry Out Site Surveys
Before setting up the crane, hired crane contractors should carry out and conduct site surveys to identify any potential hazards or obstructions that may affect the crane’s setup and positioning. Site surveys determine the ground conditions, any overhead obstructions, and the proximity of other structures or equipment that may interfere with the crane’s movement. Identifying these hazards in advance can help plan for the necessary adjustments to the crane’s position and setup to avoid accidents.
Choose the Right Crane
The type and size of the crane used in a lift will depend on the load weight and dimensions, the lifting height, and the site conditions. Choosing the right crane for the job is significant to ensure it can handle the load and operate efficiently in the given conditions. The crane picked for the job must be properly maintained and inspected to ensure it is in good working condition.
Identify the Ground Bearing Pressure
The ground bearing pressure is the amount of force exerted by the crane on the ground when in operation. Knowing the ground bearing pressure is essential to determine the crane’s suitable positioning and prevent soil instability or ground failure. Soil-bearing capacity tests and ground surveys can provide the needed information to calculate the ground-bearing pressure.
Utilise Proper Outriggers and Mats
Outriggers and mats can give a stable base for the crane, distribute the load, and prevent ground pressure from exceeding the soil’s bearing capacity. Outriggers and mats should be positioned on firm, level ground and placed perpendicular to the crane’s load to ensure stability.
Set Up the Crane on Level Ground
The crane should always be set up on level ground to prevent the crane from tipping over or losing balance during the lift. The ground should be free from any debris, holes, or soft spots that could cause the crane to sink or become unstable, affecting the overall lifting process.
Position the Crane and Load it Correctly
The crane should be positioned perpendicular to the load to minimise any potential swing or instability during the lift. It should be positioned in such a way that the load is directly below the boom’s centreline. The load, alternatively, must be positioned as close to the crane as possible to minimise the boom’s reach and reduce the load moment. A shorter boom length and reduced load moment provide greater crane stability, which allows for safer and more efficient operation.
Use Proper Rigging Techniques
Rigging is an essential aspect of any lift, and the right techniques should be used to ensure the load is safely and securely attached to the crane.
Achieving the right crane setup and positioning is vital to the safety and success of any lifting operation. It is always recommended to work with a qualified lift planner or engineer to ensure that all aspects of the lift are planned and executed safely and efficiently.
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