WAC 296-155-53715   Mobile cranes -- Operations.  (1) Where applicable, if the load hoist mechanism is not equipped with an automatic brake and the load must remain suspended for any considerable length of time, the operator must hold the drum from rotating in the lowering direction by activating a manually operated brake. The boom hoist brakes must be set, and on rope boom support cranes, a braking mechanism and a ratchet and pawl or other locking device must be engaged to prevent inadvertent lowering of the boom.

     (2) On wheel-mounted cranes, loads must not be lifted over the front area, except as permitted by the crane manufacturer.

     (3) Rolling outriggers. Mobile cranes using rolling outriggers must use load charts from the crane manufacturer or an RPE that specifically address this configuration. If the crane manufacturer does not address the use of rolling outriggers while some of the crane's weight is on its wheels, then the user must use the "on rubber" chart.

     (4) While in transit, the following additional precautions must be exercised:

     (a) The boom should be carried in line with the direction of motion.

     (b) The superstructure must be secured against rotation (or the boom placed in a boom rack mounted on the carrier), except when negotiating turns when there is an operator in the cab or the boom is supported on a dolly.

     (5) A crane with or without a load must be traveled in the configuration recommended by the crane manufacturer. In the event a configuration is not specified, then travel must not be attempted with the boom so high that it may bounce back over the cab.

     (6) When rotating the crane, sudden starts and stops must be avoided. Rotational speed must be such that the load does not swing out beyond the radius at which it can be controlled. A tag or restraint line must be used when rotation of the load is hazardous.

     (7) Cranes must not be operated without the ballast or counterweight being in place as specified by the crane manufacturer. Under specific conditions, such as during crane assembly or unusual boom configurations, the crane manufacturer's recommendations for the amount of ballast or counterweight must be adhered to.

     (8) The crane must be leveled per the crane manufacturer's recommendation; in the event that these recommendations are not available an RPE's recommendation must be followed.



[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.440, 49.17.060, and 29 C.F.R. 1926, Subpart CC. 12-01-086, § 296-155-53715, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12.]