GF-16 Crane System Instruction Manual
Page: 2
SAFETY GUIDELINES
The set-up instructions must be read and understood before set-up or operation. The crane may only be
assembled in accordance with the manufacturer’s instruction manual. The manufacturer’s technical
specifications and limits (maximum rated loads of each version) must be adhered to at all times and in no
way exceeded.
The GF-16 Crane may only be set-up or operated by trained and experienced personnel. To assemble the
crane at least two men are needed. To avoid misuse by untrained personnel, the crane should be dismantled
when not in use or under supervision.
For further information on the qualifications required for test personnel please refer to BGV 1, §33 and §34.
The crane may not be set-up or operated under the influence of alcohol, drugs or any other intoxicating
substances. The respective protective clothing e.g. gloves, should be worn.
The manufacturer accepts no liability for damages or injuries for incidents or accidents occurring due to
negligence by the crane operator or misuse of the crane or disregarding the instruction manual.
Before assembling the crane ensure that the ground surface is stable and cannot give way. The ground
surface must be stable enough to support at least 2300 kg/m2 = 5060 lbs/ sq yard.
Crane operation is only allowed with solid tires. Use with pneumatic wheels is not allowed. Before and while
using the crane the wheels should be inspected.
Whether operating or moving the crane on track or on a solid ground surface it is essential that the track or
surface is completely level, stable and free from obstructions. If necessary, level the crane with the provided
levelling legs.
When operating the crane on track, ensure that the track is level, properly laid and constructed. The correct
underlay must be used to ensure that the track and underlay are secured against moving, slipping and
collapse. Ensure that the underlay provides the specified support and stability. Use the manufacturers
mounting ramp when driving on or off track.
Operation on curved track is strictly forbidden.
Use of the crane on insert vehicles, camera cars or any motorised vehicle is not allowed.
The
manufacturer accepts no liability for damages or injuries for incidents or accidents occurring due to use of
the crane on insert vehicles, camera cars or any other motorised vehicles.
Changing weather conditions should be taken into consideration. The crane must be taken out of operation
before the operational wind speed reaches 25km/h (15.6mph). For this purpose see page 44.
The complete lift and panning range of the GF-16 Crane must be kept clear of obstructions at all times. A
safety clearance of 1m / 3' 3" must be observed on all sides of the crane during operation. Only authorised,
trained and experienced personnel are allowed to operate the crane. In the interest of safe crane operation,
when operating or moving the crane, abrupt, sudden movements of the crane should be avoided. An
element of risk remains by people moving in the operational range of the crane. The crane operator has to
be trained on that and is only allowed to operate the crane in safe range.
The crane may not be used in the direct vicinity of high voltage power cables. To avoid accidents due to
misuse in the vicinity of high voltage power cables, Safety Guidelines (especially VBG 1 and 4) as well as
VDE regulations (especially 0105 part 100) must be adhered to. If the nominal voltage cannot be
determined, a minimum clearance of 5m / 16ft must be kept at all times. Failing to do so can cause fatalities.
Personnel on board the crane's platform must use safety belts at all times. They should not make any
sudden, abrupt movements or lean out over the side of the platform. No loose objects may be stored or
placed on the crane platform.
Before the counterweights are removed from the bucket, ensure that the platform is resting on the ground or
alternatively supported by an appropriate stable underlay. Gradually remove the counterweights before
personnel leave the
platform or before the remote head or camera are dismounted. It’s not allowed to put
extra weights on top of the counterweight bucket or any other part of the crane!
For safety reasons only original accessories manufactured by GFM may be used with the crane.