19.05.2014
Safe or not?
Spotted by a reader in Brighton, UK a large self-propelled boom lift being used on a what looks like an excessive slope.
In the words of our correspondent: “I spotted this 132ft haulotte in Brighton the other day. I told the guys to stop using it because of the slope. Do you think it was safe?
Please register to see all images
Working on a slope in Brighton
Given that booms are supposed to be used on ‘firm level ground’ this clearly breaks the safe working practices. It even looks to be well beyond the five degree slopes that triggers most boom lift tilt alarms, and for most machines moves them beyond the built in stability safety factor.
While all might be well when reaching out in the opposite direction to the slope, the slew brake might not hold and should the operator retract the elevated boom he may face reward stability issues.
So we think that if all is as it appears it is a Death Wish.
Gill Gordon
Comment from Haulotte Group
Safety is a priority for Haulotte Group. All machines must be used within the specifications provided, including their use on slopes.
This machine, an HA32PX, is fitted with a tilt sensor limiter set at 5° which cannot be overridden.
The perspective of the photo suggests that the machine was working on an excessive slope which could jeopardise the safety of the operator.
But the picture is deceptive as the road drops sharply; note that the machine is positioned where the road is more level.
In Europe the Haulotte boom is fitted with the required safety devices to comply with EN280, including the tilt sensor to ensure safe operation.
All booms must be used within their specified operating range.
ipafopa
Wrong machine for the job. Should have been a truckmounted MEWP.
Sherm
IMHO the most practical way to set this up would be 1. the length of the lift should be set parallel to slope line, 2. use four wheel chocks, 3. make sure outriggers extended and fully deployed and finally 4. to lift small loads so as not to overburden the lift's capability. Gravity is truly being tested in this assignment but maybe they had no other choice to accomplish the task. If everything goes okay, take a deep breath and smile when the job is done.
Driver 79 mac
Done well to get a Haulotte elevated on a slope. Tilt sensors usually kick in on the slightest camber, seen worse.