High Risk Work Licence - Vehicle Loading Crane (CV) key terms

A plate or document fixed to the crane that lists the maximum safe load for each boom length, radius and configuration under stated conditions. It is the primary reference for planning every lift.

The maximum mass the crane is permitted to lift in a specific configuration, as shown on the load chart. It already accounts for the crane's own geometry and stability limits.

The horizontal distance from the crane's slewing centre to the centre of gravity of the load, measured with the boom in position. Capacity falls as this distance increases.

The extended length of the crane boom from its pivot to the tip, whether telescoped or manually pinned. It changes the capacity available at any given radius.

The turning effect of a load about the crane's tipping point, calculated as load mass multiplied by radius. Exceeding the permitted moment is what causes overload and tip-over.

Rotating the crane's upper structure about its vertical axis while the base stays stationary. Slewing with a load swings it outward and increases the working radius unless controlled.

A pin or brake that prevents the crane's upper structure from rotating freely. It must be engaged for travel and stowing, and released before operating the crane.

The crane's resistance to tipping or overturning under load and during movement. It depends on outrigger spread, ground bearing strength, counterweight and load position.

A hydraulically or manually extended leg with a foot pad that widens the crane's support base. Outriggers must be fully deployed and on firm footing before lifting.

A load-spreading block, mat or plate placed under an outrigger foot to distribute force over a larger ground area. It reduces the risk of the foot punching into the surface.

The force per unit area that the crane and its load exert on the ground beneath outriggers or wheels. It must be checked against the surface's capacity before set-up.

The chosen position for the vehicle and crane, assessed for ground condition, overhead hazards, access, traffic and the reach needed for the lift. It is confirmed before outriggers are deployed.

Energised powerlines, structures, trees or other obstructions above the work area that the boom or load could contact. They must be identified and controlled before operating.

A marked or barricaded area around the crane and load path that keeps unauthorised people clear of suspended loads, slewing booms and potential drop zones.

A person positioned to watch the lift path, hazards or blind areas and relay signals to the operator. The spotter does not direct the lift unless authorised to do so.

A trained and licensed worker who selects, attaches and directs slings and lifting gear, and directs the crane operator during the lift using agreed signals.

A person who prepares and attaches loads to the crane hook using slings, shackles and other gear, and who verifies the load is balanced and secure before lifting.

Standardised arm and hand movements used to direct the crane operator when radios fail or are unsuitable. Only one nominated signal person should give them at a time.

A rope attached to a load so a person can control its swing and rotation from a safe distance. It keeps hands off the load and reduces uncontrolled movement.

The angle between a sling leg and the horizontal, which determines the tension in each leg. Shallow angles greatly increase tension and reduce the safe working load.

The maximum mass a sling, shackle, hook or other item of lifting gear may carry, after applying the required safety factor. It is marked on the gear or its tag.

Equipment such as slings, chains, shackles, hooks and spreader beams used to connect a load to the crane hook. It must be rated, inspected and free of defects.

The documented check of the crane and lifting gear carried out before each use or shift, looking for damage, wear, leaks and correct function. Defects must be reported and the equipment tagged out.

Attaching a clear warning tag to defective equipment to show it must not be used until repaired and cleared. It isolates the item from service and protects other workers.

The crane's record of inspections, maintenance, repairs and operational hours. Entries must be current, and any defects noted must be followed up before operation.

A thorough periodic examination of the crane's structural and mechanical components, required at set intervals or after certain events. It is more detailed than a routine pre-use check.

A close visual and physical check of the crane's boom, frame, welds and pins for cracks, corrosion, distortion or loose fasteners. It aims to find defects that could cause failure.

An instrument or system that shows the operator the current load, radius and percentage of rated capacity, and warns or limits when capacity is approached or exceeded.

Safety devices that sound a warning and then stop dangerous crane movements when the load or moment exceeds the set limit. They must never be bypassed or disabled.

A device that stops a crane motion such as hoisting, lowering or telescoping at a set travel limit. It prevents the hook block from contacting the boom tip or the load from over-running.

A dangerous condition where the hook block is pulled up against the boom tip, damaging rope and components. It is prevented by the hoist limit switch and careful operation.

The pulley assembly and hook at the end of the hoist rope, which carries the load and provides the lifting point. It must be inspected for cracks, wear and a working latch.

A spring-loaded device on the hook that closes the throat and stops slings or fittings from slipping off. A missing or damaged latch makes the hook unfit for use.

The steel cable that raises and lowers the load and supports the boom in some designs. It must be checked for broken wires, kinks, corrosion and correct spooling.

The condition where a load's centre of gravity sits directly below the hook and the load hangs level without tilting. Unbalanced loads swing and can shift or fall.

The point at which a load's mass is considered to act. Knowing it lets the operator position slings so the load hangs level and stays stable during the lift.

The crane's specified state for moving the vehicle, such as boom stowed, slew lock engaged, outriggers retracted and attachments secured. It is set before any travel.

Returning the crane to its transport position after work, with boom retracted and seated, hook secured and controls neutral. Stowing protects the crane and allows safe travel.

The documented sequence for finishing work: lowering and securing the load, stowing the crane, applying park brake, isolating power and securing the vehicle and site.

Isolating and locking an energy source so the crane cannot be started or moved unexpectedly during maintenance, inspection or at the end of the shift.

The agreed system of radios, hand signals or verbal calls used between the operator, dogger and spotter. Clear, confirmed messages prevent misdirected movements and collisions.