WAC 296-155-53915   Tower cranes -- Operations.  (1) The operator must not engage in any practice that diverts their attention while actually engaged in operating the crane.

     (2) The operator must do the following before leaving the crane unattended:

     (a) Set down the load, rigging gear, bucket, lifting magnet, or other devices.

     (b) Position trolley in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations unless the site specific application drawing requires a different position.

     (c) Leave the superstructure free to weathervane unless provisions for nonweathervaning have been specified by the manufacturer or by a qualified person.

     (d) Disconnect power to operating controls or disengage the master clutch, as applicable.

     (e) Place all controls in the "off" or "neutral" position.

     (f) Secure the crane against accidental travel.

     (g) Stop the internal combustion engine, when provided.

Exemption:

If crane operation is frequently interrupted during a shift, the crane may remain running while the operator remains on the crane superstructure.

     (h) Restrain the crane from travel with rail clamps, or other means provided, when a wind alarm is given or on leaving the crane overnight.

Note:

Additional information relating to cranes being unattended are located in WAC 296-155-53400(52) of this part.

     (3) If power fails during operation, the operator must:

     (a) Set trolley, hoist, and travel brakes and locking devices, as applicable;

     (b) Move all clutch or other power controls to the "off" or "neutral" position;

     (c) If practical, the suspended load must be landed under brake control.

     (4) Cranes must not be climbed to a new operating level nor operated when wind speeds exceed the maximum velocity recommended by the manufacturer. Where the manufacturer does not specify this information, an RPE must determine the maximum allowable wind velocity. Climbing operations are not allowed until tie-ins at the new support level as specified by a qualified person are in place.

     (5) Prior to daily operation, operator aids must be checked to determine if they are working properly as required in WAC 296-155-53405 and 296-155-53905.

     (6) During adverse weather conditions which reduce visibility, operations must be performed according to the manufacturer's specifications, when not available in accordance with an RPE's written instructions.

     (7) The load must not be lowered below the point where less than two full wraps of rope remain on the drum.

     (8) When slewing the boom (jib), trolleying a load, or traveling the crane, sudden starts and stops must be avoided. Slew and travel speeds 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 swinging of the load is hazardous.

     (9) Cranes must not be operated without the ballast or counterweight in place as specified by the manufacturer. Under specific conditions, such as during crane assembly or disassembly, the manufacturer's recommendations for the amount of partial ballast or counterweight must be adhered to. The maximum ballast or counterweight approved by the manufacturer or an RPE for use on a given crane must not be exceeded.



[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, § 296-155-53915, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12.]