Section 2 – Radio Controlled Safety (Continued)
8
2-8.2.
General Rules For Operation.
Consult the crane manufacturer, local and governmental regulations for complete rules of operation. In general the
following rules apply to remotely controlled cranes:
The limit switches should never be used as a regular stopping device. They are intended to be protective devices.
Do not make lifts in excess of the equipment rated capacity.
The bridge and trolley should be centered directly over the load when the load is raised to prevent swinging when
making lifts.
A crane designed for this purpose and only with supervisor permission should make side pulls. When a lift is being
made, the crane operator should not be positioned in the line of travel. The crane or hoist should be operated from a
position either to the side or opposite from the direction of travel.
When raising or lowering a load, proceed slowly and make certain the load is under control. Tag lines should be
used for handling unusual lengths or bulky loads. Remove slack from chains or slings gradually. Make certain all
personnel are clear before making a lift.
The crane operator should keep all body parts away from the lift and should never be positioned under the lift.
Do not make a lift or move a load if anyone is in a location where they could be struck by the crane or the load.
If the crane operator is being helped, the crane should not be moved until the helper signals they are clear of the
crane and its load.
When a load is hanging from the crane hook and the crane is being moved, the crane operator should sound all
warning devices frequently.
Loads should not be carried over workers heads. If a worker is in the path of crane travel, the crane operator should
stop the crane and clear the area before proceeding.
Runway stops or other cranes should never be bumped into.
When moving the crane, the crane operator should be sure that the hook block and attachments or cables would not
catch on nearby equipment. Slings, chains, or cables should never be dragged along the floor.
Unless required for operator safety, gloves should not be worn when operating the transmitter unit.
All loose materials or parts should be removed from the load before starting the lift.
The crane operator should always hoist lifts high enough to clear all equipment and workers.
The crane operator should never permit anyone to ride on the load or hook except when authorized by the
supervisor.
When another crane on the same runway is stationary with a load hanging, the crane operator should maintain a safe
distance between the stationary crane and the one under their control.
Never leave suspended loads unattended. In an emergency, if the crane is inoperative and a load suspended, notify
the supervisor immediately, barricade and post signs on the floor beneath crane and load.
If power to the crane is removed, the crane operator should turn the transmitter unit OFF and keep it OFF until
power is restored.
If the crane fails to respond properly, the crane operator should stop operation, turn the transmitter unit OFF and
immediately report the condition to their supervisor.
