Securing over-dimensional loads or extremely heavy loads is not a matter that is to be taken lightly. Transporting heavy equipment or cargo often requires special consideration because accidents and injuries that are caused by even the smallest oversight can have fatal consequences.
Mobile cranes are often used to transport heavy items across various locations, particularly equipment used in the construction, power generation, and oil mining industries. When carrying heavy loads across state lines, crane operators must be mindful of regulatory requirements set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
Here’s a closer look at the cargo securement rules set by the FMCSA.
FMCSA Guidelines
In 2002, the FMCSA published updated cargo securement guidelines that were based on the North American Cargo Securement Standard Model Regulations. These guidelines indicated that
All systems and devices used to secure cargo in a vehicle should be capable of meeting set performance standards.
All vehicle systems, components, and parts that secure the cargo should be in working order with no weakened or damaged parts that can affect performance negatively.
Cargo Securing Techniques
There are several cargo-securing options for mobile cranes, including:
Chains. These offer both strength and durability during cargo securement. The primary disadvantages are weight and that they can physically damage the cargo.
Web Straps. These are helpful for securing individual items, and their light weight makes them easier to handle. However, if the cargo has rough edges, it can wear or cut the webbing and make the load unsafe for transport.
Wire Ropes. These cables are made using multiple strands of metal wires twisted around the steel or synthetic fiber core. These ropes offer greater flexibility, have a larger contact area, and offer greater resistance to damage and abrasions. The drawback is that they have poor resistance to bending deformation.
Selecting the Right Tie-Down
When choosing a material to secure a load, you’ll have to take several considerations into account. Load classification, composition, and mode of transport take precedence; weight, ease of use, and storage requirements are secondary.
Additionally, when using mobile cranes to transport your load, opt for crane safety systems that can enhance the safety of your operation. For instance, you may need crane Wind Speed Indicator and crane safe load monitoring systems to ensure the integrity of the load.
Crane Warning Systems Atlanta is a premier distributor of crane safety equipment developed by RaycoWylie. Our products can help you secure your loads and ensure safe transport of heavy items using mobile cranes.
Check out our product selection here.