If you’re looking to invest in a crane for your construction site for the first time, you may be wondering whether your supplier is obligated to perform a site survey before installation can begin. The short answer is no - not always, at least. If you’re simply going to be moving a pallet of bricks or bags of gravel from one area of the site to another, for example, then a survey is probably not going to be necessary. However, it’s still essential for the operator to comply with all of the relevant health and safety at work legislation. They will also be responsible for ensuring that the load does not pass over other workers - for this reason it may be necessary to cordon off parts of the site while the lift is in progress.
On the other hand, when lifting any large or heavy materials or equipment that requires the use of a heavy-duty overhead crane, you will emphatically need to have a survey carried out before the crane is constructed. The construction industry remains to be one of the most high-risk professions for workplace injuries - when a crane is involved, there can be fatal consequences. Ensuring that all possible safety measures have been taken is crucial.
What Does a Site Survey Involve?
Whether the site survey is being conducted by the main contractor or a trusted crane supplier, it goes without saying that site survey reports should be completed in full and comply with all health and safety regulations. The first phase of a site survey is the risk assessment. The larger and heavier the load, the greater the risk of accidents - which is why intricate planning must always be undertaken at this stage. Planning should always factor in the following:
The weight, size and material of the load. Full details of how high the load has to be lifted, as well as whether the crane will need to be moved to another area of the site will be required.
Ground conditions: Will the crane be operating on solid ground, such as concrete or tarmac? Other necessary information including the site’s access points and any ground the crane may have to move over whilst carrying out the lift.
Heavy-duty cranes are big, bulky pieces of equipment - are the access roads and gateways wide enough for the crane to pass through? Are there any obstacles in the way that need to be relocated?
Are there any aerial obstructions that may pose a hazard during the lift, and can they be avoided or removed?
Will any roads need to be closed during the crane’s arrival, operation or departure? This will have to be officiated by the local authority.
With the risk assessment complete and any potential hazards highlighted, your crane supplier can decide on the best way to proceed. For example, if a large overhanging tree is an obstruction, can it be removed? Only when these problems have been resolved can a lift be given the go ahead and arrangements can be made to install a crane on site.
Trustworthy Crane Installation Service in South Wales
If you would like more information regarding site surveys, or are looking for a reliable crane supplier, get in touch with Crane & Lifting Services. Our crane construction specialists work with a wide variety of cranes, and we are highly capable of tailoring our services to the requirements of your site.
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