Shutdown, Securing, and Out-of-Service Procedures
End of shift, every shift
Land the load, disengage and stow the rigging, then raise the empty hook block to a safe height clear of walkways and head-high traffic - never leave it resting against the upper limit. Position the bridge and trolley where the site plan or manufacturer requires, place all controls in the OFF position, and open the main disconnect so the crane cannot be energized accidentally. Remove and secure keys or radio pendants and return the pendant to its designated location.
Lockout/tagout and out of service
Shutdown for the day is not the same as lockout for maintenance. Any work on the crane, runway, or conductor bar requires the energy-isolating device to be locked and tagged by each worker, with stored energy released. A crane with a defect, expired inspection, or unresolved repair receives an out-of-service tag naming the reason, the date, and the person who applied it. It stays out of service until the repair is verified and the tag is removed by the person who applied it.
Outdoor and long-term securing
Gantry and outdoor cranes need rail clamps, anchors, or tie-downs per the manufacturer for wind, with the trolley or boom stowed as the manual directs. Check wind forecasts and never assume a parked crane is safe in a storm.
Traps
Questions punish the operator who parks with a load on the hook, who leaves the disconnect closed because tomorrow's shift starts early, and who removes another person's tag.
Rule of thumb: leave the crane the way you would want to find it - de-energized, empty, tagged if defective, and documented.