Crane Operation: Hoisting, Traversing, Travel, Positioning and Load Control
Smooth, controlled operation
Operate smoothly: take up slack slowly, lift clear of the ground, pause to check stability and balance, then move. Avoid shock loading, sudden stops and swinging. Keep the load as low as practical and never drag or side-pull. Use tag lines to control rotation and swing.
Hoisting and traversing
Hoist within the limit switch range; never rely on the upper limit as a stopping point. Traverse with the load under control, watching for people, structures and other cranes. Travel only when the path is clear and the load is secured. On gantry cranes, watch rail alignment and end stops.
Positioning
Lower slowly, guide with tag lines, and set down on stable ground or dunnage. Keep hands and feet clear. Do not leave a suspended load unattended; if you must leave the controls, lower the load first.
Traps
Questions test whether you lift before checking balance, whether you side-pull, whether you travel with a raised load, and whether you use limit switches as brakes. Another trap: assuming the crane's overload device replaces the load chart. It does not.
Worked example
A pipe section swings as it lifts. You stop, lower, re-sling with the centre of gravity under the hook and add tag lines, then lift again. You do not chase the swing with the trolley.
Rule of thumb
Lift a little, check, then move. Keep the load low, slow and under control; never side-pull or shock-load.