Tower crane 30 metre limit now effective
Builders and crane suppliers have been on notice for some time that crane operators will not be required to climb more than 30 metres to their cab.
Modern technology has allowed tower cranes to be erected in free standing mode to unacceptable heights for safe access and egress.
NO Crane operator should have to climb more than 30m
It is not OK that an operator has to climb over 30 metres up to 6 times a day. As drivers are forced to make these dangerous ascents it is becoming common practice for operators to remain in the crane all day. This causes serious OH&S problems such as sanitation and fatigue.
There are plenty of options for solving this problem, including the fitting of a hoist to the mast. This is common in many countries and gives safer egress if an operator is injured or taken ill.
From July 1 2010 all newly erected Tower Cranes must not require operators to climb over 30m.
For more information contact your OH&S Rep or the CFMEU safety unit on 9341 3444.
