Crane Boom Failure

Crane boom failure can be one of the biggest disasters on a construction job; yet it can be caused by poor planning on the simplest lifting job.  

LISTEN CAREFULLY – IT MAY SAVE LIVES 

The time to discuss crane boom failure is before it happens, not afterwards. So pay close attention to what we’re going to discuss today.  The suggestions we’re going to make could save lives.   

TWO MAIN CAUSES OF BOOM FAILURE 

The two main causes of crane boom failure are overloading and improper loading. Some of the specific things we should be aware are:   

• Overloading for length, size, or angle of boom.   
• Improper calculation of load weight.  Remember to include the weight of all rigging.   
• Boom too high    
• Two blocking.   
• Attempting side pulls.   
• Swinging load and not paying attention to the side load on boom.   
• Load hitting boom.   
• Walking or turning too fast, causing load to swing and twist boom.   
• Failure to use tagline or other control on a load.     
• Not using outrigger, or outriggers improperly shored.   
• Not enough counterweight, tipping the cab house and chassis.   
• Using boom with twisted members or braces. Makeshift repairs.   
• Improper maintenance.   
• Poor brakes. Worn clutch.   
• Failure to check boom.   
• Inexperienced or careless operation. Chance taking. Short cuts.

 

 Always take the necessary precautions to prevent boom failures.