Mobile Crane Safety: Guidelines for using Mobile Cranes near powerlines

Each state and territory will have its own specific requirements when it comes to safe approach distances and work zones. More information on safe approach distances and work zones in Queensland can be found here.
How do we manage the risk of overhead powerlines?
When it comes to overhead powerlines, they are a risk that needs to be managed as it is impossible to avoid all situations where they are an issue. In most cases we can plan the lift so that the crane, it’s boom, jib or any platforms are outside of the approach distance of the powerlines. Often this may mean using a different approach or crane to the one first thought of for the job.
In some instances, we require what’s called an electrical spotter who is specifically trained to minimise the risks associated with working near powerlines. This will ensure that our crane operators are visually reminded of the risk and can stay outside of it.
Our experienced mobile crane operators also limit mechanical movement that may impinge on the exclusion zones, such as slewing. We make sure that the ground is solid and stable, and any counterweights that are needed are applied to ensure the stability of the crane.
In some situations, it may be necessary to de-energise the powerlines for the time that the mobile crane is in use, if the crane is used within the exclusion zone. This needs to be done by the electricity supplier and of course requires planning, permits and permissions.
For further information about managing the risks associated with mobile cranes and powerlines, we recommend the Safe Work Australia Guide. It contains more information and technical detail for planning projects that are near powerlines and how to manage risks.
Get in touch with the team at Lindores Mobile Cranes to talk about your next project.
Lindores Mobile Cranes (LMC) are a mobile crane and labour hire business that has unequalled experience in the construction industry spanning two generations. In operation since 2007, we’re a family owned business and are also proud owners of Brisbane’s only Humma crane.
Google reviews and even peers within the industry are always a good starting point to ensure that a mobile crane hire company is a reputable business provider. At Lindores, we’re not only too happy to show you the feedback from our customers, but it’s something that we’re actually quite proud of.
At LMC, we pride ourselves on knowing what our customers require, and aren’t afraid to think outside of the box with suggestions in order to reduce costs and increase productivity. If you would like to explore your options regarding crane hire in South East Queensland or aren’t quite sure where to start, get in touch with us today.
Each state and territory will have its own specific requirements when it comes to safe approach distances and work zones. More information on safe approach distances and work zones in Queensland can be found here.
How do we manage the risk of overhead powerlines?
When it comes to overhead powerlines, they are a risk that needs to be managed as it is impossible to avoid all situations where they are an issue. In most cases we can plan the lift so that the crane, it’s boom, jib or any platforms are outside of the approach distance of the powerlines. Often this may mean using a different approach or crane to the one first thought of for the job.
In some instances, we require what’s called an electrical spotter who is specifically trained to minimise the risks associated with working near powerlines. This will ensure that our crane operators are visually reminded of the risk and can stay outside of it.
Our experienced mobile crane operators also limit mechanical movement that may impinge on the exclusion zones, such as slewing. We make sure that the ground is solid and stable, and any counterweights that are needed are applied to ensure the stability of the crane.
In some situations, it may be necessary to de-energise the powerlines for the time that the mobile crane is in use, if the crane is used within the exclusion zone. This needs to be done by the electricity supplier and of course requires planning, permits and permissions.
For further information about managing the risks associated with mobile cranes and powerlines, we recommend the Safe Work Australia Guide. It contains more information and technical detail for planning projects that are near powerlines and how to manage risks.
Our team are experienced in planning and scoping lifts around powerlines. As mentioned above, we manage the risks and enact the necessary protocols to ensure the safety of both our team, plant and the project. At Lindores Mobile Cranes, we offer free site inspections and lift planning for each mobile crane hire; doing this enables us to audit any risks such as powerlines and plan the lift to minimise them.
Get in touch with the team at Lindores Mobile Cranes to talk about your next project.
Sourcing Outdoor Cranes In South East Queensland
Lindores Mobile Cranes (LMC) are a mobile crane and labour hire business that has unequalled experience in the construction industry spanning two generations. In operation since 2007, we’re a family owned business and are also proud owners of Brisbane’s only Humma crane.
Google reviews and even peers within the industry are always a good starting point to ensure that a mobile crane hire company is a reputable business provider. At Lindores, we’re not only too happy to show you the feedback from our customers, but it’s something that we’re actually quite proud of.
At LMC, we pride ourselves on knowing what our customers require, and aren’t afraid to think outside of the box with suggestions in order to reduce costs and increase productivity. If you would like to explore your options regarding crane hire in South East Queensland or aren’t quite sure where to start, get in touch with us today.
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