03.10.2001

Lorry loader warning

New lorry loader cranes sold in the UK must now be fitted with an interlocking system (or equivalent engineering solution) to prevent the crane operating without stabilisers being deployed, said the Health & Safety Executive. The HSE said that this is now necessary to comply with the Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 1992.

The warning follows 12 incidents over the last five years. Tragically this includes one fatality.

“Lorry loader cranes rely on the lorry chassis for support and are often powered from the lorry engine. The cranes have stabilisers that need to be deployed to deal with the risks from overturning when lifting heavy loads, particularly at the limits of the crane’s reach. Interlocking systems or equivalent engineering solutions will prevent the cranes from being used, unless the stabilisers are deployed or reduce the cranes lifting capacity if the stabilisers are down, but not extended” said the HSE.

The Association of Lorry Loader Manufacturers and Importers (ALLMI) has expressed concern over the sudden implementation of the new requirement.