Truck-mounted cranes are classified as special vehicles employed in engineering construction. The paramount concern throughout the operation process is safety. It has been reported that every year, there are incidents involving the operation of truck-mounted cranes. So, what are the common types of accidents that frequently occur with these cranes? Let’s summarize as follows:
1、Rollover accidents
During the operation of atruck-mounted crane, if the support operation is not carried out correctly, for instance, when the foundation is uneven or soft and no special wooden blocks are placed beneath the outriggers, the risk of a rollover accident significantly increases. A stable and firm support base is essential to evenly distribute the weight and provide sufficient stability to the crane.
Using the truck-mounted crane based on its original performance table without fully extending the outriggers is a risky practice. The outriggers play a crucial role in enhancing the crane’s stability and load-bearing capacity. Failure to extend them fully can compromise the crane’s balance and increase the likelihood of a rollover.
Overloading is a common cause of rollover accidents. In practical work scenarios, inaccurate estimations of the weight of the lifted items or a lack of attention to safety guidelines and engaging in overloading operations can lead to the crane losing its stability. When the crane is subjected to a load beyond its capacity, it becomes prone to tipping over.
The rotational speed of the truck-mounted crane during the operation project should be controlled. If the rotation is too rapid, the centrifugal force acting on the crane will increase significantly. This can result in the boom swinging uncontrollably, which in turn can lead to a rollover situation.
2、Boom breaking accidents
When a truck-mounted crane lifts goods that exceed the torque limit specified for the boom, it can cause the boom to fracture. The torque limit is designed to ensure the structural integrity of the boom, and exceeding it places excessive stress on the components, leading to potential failure.
The operator of the truck-mounted crane needs to be vigilant and careful. After the operation is completed, if the boom is not fully retracted before the vehicle takes to the road, it can collide with bridge openings, height limit poles, and other obstacles. Such collisions can result in severe damage and even breakage of the boom.
3、<Hook detachment accidents
The hook detachment of a crane, which refers to the loss of heavy objects due to the detachment of heavy objects or special lifting tools from the hook, is a significant safety concern. The primary cause of this is typically the malfunction of the anti-detachment device of the hook’s lock or incorrect lifting methods. Ensuring the proper functioning of the hook’s locking mechanism and following correct lifting procedures are essential to prevent such accidents.
4、Rope breaking accidents
Rope breaking accidents, where heavy objects are dropped due to the fracture of the steel ropes or rope buckles used for lifting, are another common occurrence. Overloading and extending the boom beyond its safe limits during lifting can put excessive strain on the steel rope, causing it to break. Eccentric pulling and oblique lifting can also cause the steel rope to be crushed and cut. Additionally, the continued use of steel ropes that have exceeded their retirement standards greatly increases the risk of rope breakage.
5、Electric shock accidents
Electric shock accidents, generally referring to personal injury and fatal incidents where the operators of truck-mounted cranes are electrocuted or receive electric shocks, are a serious hazard. The main cause of electric shock is when the boom of the truck-mounted crane comes too close to high-voltage wires without maintaining a sufficient safe distance. This can cause the crane body itself to become electrically charged, thereby indirectly exposing the operator to the risk of high-voltage electric shock.
The operators of truck-mounted cranes should draw valuable lessons from the above-mentioned common accidents. By taking proactive preventive measures such as adhering strictly to safety protocols, accurately estimating load weights, ensuring proper support and outrigger extension, and regularly inspecting and maintaining equipment, they can significantly enhance operation safety and minimize the occurrence of these potentially disastrous incidents.
In conclusion, understanding the types and causes of these accidents is the first step towards implementing effective safety measures. By remaining vigilant and committed to safety at all times, the operation of truck-mounted cranes can be conducted with greater reliability and protection of both personnel and property.
