The 12 most important points in the new Code of Good Practice of safety cages in SPAIN. The future seed for a European Common Code of Good Practice?
On March 2nd, 2017 has been published the NTP 1083 of the INSHT that contemplates the use of SAFETY CAGES in STS CRANES in SPAIN. This is the result of several years of coordinated work in the Port Industry and led by PACECO and TEC Container. This can be considered the seed of a future European common Code of Good Practice.
Here you have the 12 main points to be especially underlined.
- – It is the first time ever that the use of SAFETY CAGES in the ports is described and contemplated in an official document. Additionally, in that official document, the exceptionality of its use is clearly described.
- – The general risks and the specific risk factors of its use are clearly assessed.
- – For the first time it is clearly established that there must be an emergency brake on the crane for the lifting mechanism.
- – It is established that the crane must have a “slow mode” that is activated automatically. Additionally this note regulates the speed, and maximum acceleration of the Elevation and carriage movement.
- – It is established that both the crane and the SAFETY CAGE must be equipped with an emergency stop system, and both the crane driver and the SAFETY CAGE operator can activate it without distinction.
- – A safety factor of 10 is established for the design and production of the SAFETY CAGES.
- – The Key safety characteristics of the SAFETY CAGE are for the first time defined.
- – It is established that there must be a redundant safety system that guarantees the correct coupling of the SAFETY CAGE to the spreader in case of failure of the main twistlocks.
- – It establishes, before its use, the need of the Operation Plan and the need of a responsible worker in charge of the complete operation.
- – It clearly establishes the complete check of the SAFETY CAGE before the use and its preventive maintenance.
- – It clearly establishes the rules for the safe transport of stevedores as well as the operator/driver of the STS or Mobile crane.
- – Marking requirements are established for the SAFETY CAGE together with an instructions manual.
Crane cages are an essential piece of equipment in many industrial and construction settings. They provide a safe and efficient way for workers to access elevated work areas, increasing productivity while reducing the risk of accidents and injuries. However, it is important to use them properly and ensure that workers are trained and equipped with the necessary safety gear to use them safely.