Maintenance, Inspection and Thorough Examination of Mobile Cranes

21.5 Availability of Operators
Thorough examination will require the crane to be operated from the control cab
whilst the competent person is examining other parts of the crane. Arrangements
must be made to ensure that an operator is available on such occasions.
21.6 Availability of Maintenance Staff
If the competent person carrying out the thorough examination requires the removal
of covers and guards to facilitate the through examination of concealed parts, the
owner of the crane should ensure that suitable personnel are available.
21.7 Thorough Examination Area
The area in which the thorough examination is being carried out should be of
adequate size and cordoned off to prevent access by persons not directly involved in
the examination.
21.8 Test Area
Careful consideration should be given to the condition of any area where tests are to
be conducted. The recommendations provided in the operating instructions for the
crane relate to operations within the rated capacity and more stringent requirements
apply when loads are being applied for the purpose of testing.
The ground should be level, well consolidated and capable of withstanding the loads
applied to it. There should be no hidden dangers such as cable ducts, drains, pipes,
back-filled areas, cellars or other subterranean weaknesses. Cranes should not be
tested in the vicinity of overhead power lines.
The test site should be of sufficient size with unrestricted overhead clearance to allow
the unobstructed movement of the crane and load throughout its test movement, for
example slewing, derricking and travelling.
It is preferable that tests are not conducted over high risk areas, for example a public
highway, railway, occupied buildings or in the flight path of airports. If due to the
requirements of usage this is unavoidable, arrangements should be made with the
appropriate authorities.
If load testing is being carried it must be borne in mind that the crane might not
withstand the loading. All personnel not essential to the test should be kept away
from the area. The test area should be cordoned off and notices posted prohibiting
unauthorized entry. The site adjacent to the test area should be clear of plant and
property which could inhibit the test.
21.9 Availability of Site Facilities
Arrangements should be made to ensure that site management, safety and welfare
facilities are available to the competent person and any personnel assisting them
both within and outside normal working hours. Facilities should include office space
for the review of documentation.
21.10 Lone Working
Lone working should be avoided at all times by suitable liaison with the person in
control of the site to ensure that site personnel are always in attendance.
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