International Crane Stakeholders Assembly has released essential safety guidance for crane operators near power lines.
The International Crane Stakeholders Assembly (ICSA) gathered in Australia in October 2024, bringing together global crane industry leaders to address critical safety concerns in crane operations.
Core members attending in person included the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM), Canadian Crane Rental Association (CCRA), The Crane Industry Council of Australia (CICA), European Association of Abnormal Road Transport and Mobile Cranes (ESTA), European Materials Handling Federation (FEM), and Specialized Carriers & Rigging Association (SC&RA). Additional delegates joined online, reinforcing the global commitment to advancing crane safety practices.
One of the most important outcomes from this assembly was the release of the Safe Crane Operation in the Vicinity of Power Lines guidance document, a comprehensive resource developed to assist with the understanding and managing of risks associated with crane operations near live overhead power lines. This document is targeted at crane operators, contractors, and regulatory authorities to help prevent power line contact.
Key elements
The Safe Crane Operation in the Vicinity of Power Lines document emphasises a proactive, risk-based approach to crane safety, stressing that the safest method to avoid power line hazards is to de-energise and ground the lines before operations commence.
The guide advises, “A robust risk management system and a safe system of work are essential, especially when de-energising power lines is not feasible.”
Currently, there are no safety devices available that can accurately detect the fluctuating electric fields.
The safe system of work should be reviewed if the operations or job site conditions change.
A copy of the guidance document can be downloaded from: here
New resources and industry developments
The meeting also highlighted other advancements in crane safety, including ESTA’s release of the Guideline for the Inspection of Winch Gearboxes Used on Mobile Cranes, a practical guide that underscores the importance of routine maintenance and inspection to ensure winch gearbox reliability and operational safety.
Dr Shaghayegh (Shay) Abtahi, Assistant Professor, from the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Alberta, presented her bridge assessment study for the Canadian Crane Rental Association, exploring the effects of crane loads on bridge structures. Her research is expected to inform improved standards for infrastructure resilience and safe crane use on bridges.
Looking forward: BAUMA 2025
The next ICSA meeting will take place on 9 April 2025 at bauma in Munich, one of the world’s premier trade fairs for construction and heavy machinery. This event will provide an international platform to continue discussions on crane safety advancements and innovations.