HDS mobile cranes - Hydraulic truck cranes are widely used in loading and reloading works. Thanks to their design, they make it possible to carry out these activities in various locations, which is why they are widely used in the transport of various types of cargo requiring the operation of a crane.

The use of mobile cranes must be based on generally accepted health and safety rules and on the technical operating instructions for the equipment in question. Non-compliance with these rules is the most frequent cause of accidents at work.

HDS cranes can be used both in the open air and in enclosed spaces, for example halls, but with the proviso that they should be properly ventilated, as otherwise there is a risk of poisoning from exhaust gases. Mobile cranes should never be used in gusty winds or during storms. Also, work should be halted when there is limited visibility.

The vehicle must be positioned in a suitable place and correctly levelled. Details of the crane's maximum permissible inclination can be found in its technical data. The ground must be strong enough, and special stabilisers and shims must be used if the ground is uneven or boggy.

Before starting work, the crane operator must always check that there are no unauthorised persons within the crane's working area. The crane's working area must be suitably marked out. The vehicle must have warning lights on, the hand brake applied and wheel chocks in place to prevent the wheels moving. The machine operator must be fitted with suitable personal protection equipment - appropriate footwear, a protective helmet and nonrestrictive clothing.

Main prohibited activities:

  • handling loads of unknown parameters
  • handling loads attached to the ground
  • operation without crane support
  • working in unsuitable weather conditions
  • working on unsuitable terrain and near hazards, for example power lines
  • use of inoperative cranes and attachments
  • working with the crane without a valid UDT decision and an entry in the maintenance log
  • transferring loads over people and workstations

At a glance:

  • Lifting platforms - the most frequent causes of accidents
  • HDS mobile cranes - description, types, components
  • Legal basis for the entitlements of the Technical Inspection Agency
  • Examination for UDT licences
  • ADR consultancy (DGSA)