GF-8 Xten Crane System Instruction Manual
Page: 2
SAFETY GUIDELINES
The assembly 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 GF-8 Crane may only be set-up or operated by trained and experienced personnel. 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 assembled 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 1000 kg/m2 = 2200 lbs/ sq yard.
Crane operation is only allowed with solid tires. Use with pneumatic wheels is not allowed.
The crane dolly must be level at all times. If necessary, level the crane with the provided levelling legs
ensuring that the levelling legs cannot sink or breakthrough the surface and are supported enough were
necessary. 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.
When operating the crane on track, ensure that the track is level, properly laid, constructed and supported.
The correct underlay must be used to ensure that the track and underlay are secured against moving,
slipping and collapse. Ensure that the underlay meets the specified support and stability requirements. Only
GFM Track or comparable track systems with a payload capacity of 1200kg / 2640lbs and a maximum track
runner distance of 640mm / 25inches (measured inside edge to inside edge) may be used. Extreme caution
must be used if tracking on curved track (no faster than a slow walking pace).
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 40kmh. / 25mph. See page 39.
The complete lift and panning range of the crane must be kept clear of obstructions at all times. A safety
clearance of 0.5m / 19" to surrounding objects and 1m / 39” to persons must be observed on all sides of the
crane during operation.
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 as the case may be, the remote head or camera are removed.
The manufacturers technical specifications and limits must be adhered to at all times and in no way
exceeded. Adding extra counterweight by placing it on top of the couterweight bucket or on any other crane
part is strictly forbidden.
In the interest of safe crane operation abrupt, sudden movement of the crane should be avoided.
Only original accessories manufactured by GFM may be used with the crane.
