Rigging & Load Control
Rigger qualifications, load weight determination, taglines, load control, side loading dangers, shock loading, and hoisting operations.
- Explain the dangers of side loading and how to prevent it
- Describe rigger qualifications and load weight determination methods
- Identify proper tagline use and load control techniques
- Define shock loading and safe hoisting practices to prevent it
Leçon 1
Side Loading & Its Dangers
What Is Side Loading?
Side loading occurs when a horizontal force is applied to the crane boom that is not in the plane of the boom. In simple terms, it means pulling the load sideways with the boom, or allowing the load to swing and exert a lateral force on the boom structure.
Critical Exam Concept
Cranes are not designed for lateral boom loads. Side loading can cause structural failure of the boom, catastrophic tip-over, or both. This is one of the most dangerous conditions in crane operations.
Why Side Loading Is Dangerous
Crane booms are engineered to handle loads in the vertical plane - straight down from the boom tip. They have minimal resistance to lateral (sideways) forces. Side loading causes:
- Boom structural failure - boom members buckle under lateral stress
- Tipping hazard - lateral forces destabilize the crane
- Bearing and pin damage - swing bearing and boom pins not designed for lateral loads
- Unpredictable load behavior - load swings increase with each movement
Correct - Plumb Load
Hook directly over load
Load lifts straight up
All forces in boom plane
Crane designed for this
Dangerous - Side Load
Hook offset from load
Load swings when lifted
Lateral force on boom
Risk of boom failure
Preventing Side Loading
- Position the crane so the hook is directly over the load before lifting
- Never drag a load horizontally with the hoist line
- Never swing a load into position using the boom - reposition the crane instead
- Use taglines to prevent loads from swinging into side-load positions
Side loading applies horizontal force to the boom, which cranes are not designed to handle. It can cause boom failure and crane tip-over. Always position the hook directly over the load and never drag loads sideways.