Feature Article
The who, what, why and how of load restraint in the crane industry Co-Authored by DASHELLE BAILEY, Editor; ALBERT SMITH, Chief Lifting Matters Sponsor, and NICK MORRIS. As vertical logistics enthusiasts, the crane industry is mostly focussed on the exciting times when we get to lift and shift things up and down - but another significant component of our operations is road transport. We might be transporting major crane components, counterweights, shackles, chains, bridge beams, piping or even just some wood blocks on the back of a ute. You name it, we move it! Just as important as ensuring a vertical lift is carried out safely, is ensuring we transport all items to, from and around the site safely.
Why? Why is it important to carry out adequate load restraint? Because it’s unsafe if you don’t Did you know the weight of a load is not enough to hold it in place? In fact, heavier loads are subject to higher forces and have just as much chance (if not greater) of moving as a light load. The load can shift forwards, backwards, upwards or sidewards in response to even normal driving conditions.
LIFTING MATTERS
JUNE 2019
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