HDS in practice

Portable cranes, also known as HDS, or Hydraulic Truck Cranes, are commonly used in various types of work involving the handling, loading and unloading of goods. When operating them, it is extremely important to follow health and safety rules to reduce the risk of accidents. HDS can only be operated by people who have completed specialised training as a mobile crane operator and have passed an examination, gaining an UDT licence. During this training, participants learn in detail about the device, the rules for its safe operation and health and safety regulations, and participate in practical exercises. It is dangerous to operate a HDS without the required qualifications, so it is worth using companies that offer to hire equipment with qualified operators.

HDS with hook on site

Guidelines for safe work with mobile cranes

This type of lifting equipment can be used both indoors and outdoors. In enclosed spaces, such as halls, it is very important to ensure proper ventilation to avoid the risk of fume poisoning. In the open, on the other hand, special care must be taken and work must be avoided during storms, strong winds or in conditions of reduced visibility. Before starting work, the vehicle must be properly levelled and placed on prepared, stable ground. Each model has a specific permissible gradient, which can be found in its technical specifications.

When working on soft or uneven ground, supports and stabilisers are required to ensure stability. Sometimes an all-axle drive crane is ideal in such areas. It is extremely important to make sure that there are no unauthorised persons around the machine. The work area should be clearly marked to prevent unauthorised access. Before starting the equipment, warning signals must be activated, the handbrake applied and wheels secured with wheel locks. The operator himself should be properly prepared by wearing protective boots, a helmet and comfortable work clothes.

HDS at the roadside

List of prohibited activities when working with HDS

Working with HDS involves risks, so it is extremely important to follow certain rules that ensure both worker safety and equipment protection. The basic safety rules for the use of HDS, the observance of which is essential to create a safe working environment concern:

  • use of faulty equipment - a crane that is not working properly must not be used, 
  • lack of a valid permit - operation of the equipment without a valid permit from the UDT is prohibited,
  • unsuitable terrain - the crane should not be used on land that is too sloping or does not have sufficient bearing capacity,
  • no props - always set up props before starting work,
  • obstructions that are too close - you must not work near power lines, buildings, trees or other objects that could be a hazard,
  • no entry in the maintenance log - it is not permissible to use the crane without a current entry in the maintenance log,
  • Not knowing the weight of the load - before lifting any load, you need to know its weight,
  • lifting heavier loads than permitted - the maximum capacity of the crane must not be exceeded,
  • lifting loads that are firmly attached to the ground - it is unacceptable to attempt to lift loads that are firmly frozen or fixed to the ground,
  • the use of defective equipment - faulty ropes, hooks or slings must not be used,
  • moving loads over workplaces - it is forbidden to move loads over areas where others are working,
  • lifting loads over people - it is essential to avoid handling loads over people,
  • transporting loads over the operator's cab - it is not permitted to lift loads within the operator's cab.

Adherence to these rules is important to ensure safety on the work site and to minimise the risk of accidents, which ultimately contributes to long-term, trouble-free operation of the equipment. During work, avoid any activity that could lead to accidents or hazards.

HDS on the road with a meadow in the background

Hazards and safety rules in working with HDS

Portable cranes, known as HDSs, are versatile in loading and unloading work, but their operation requires compliance with health and safety rules to minimise the risk of accidents. Only people who have completed the appropriate training and obtained an UDT licence are allowed to operate these machines. Working with cranes requires attention to conditions such as proper levelling of the vehicle, preparation of stable ground and ensuring safety around the machine. There is also a list of activities that are prohibited, including using faulty equipment, lifting loads without knowing their weight or carrying them over people. Following these rules enables you to be safe when working with equipment.

1. who can operate HDS cranes?

HDS cranes can only be operated by people who have completed specialised training and passed an examination, earning them a UDT licence. This enhances the safe and professional use of the equipment in various working conditions.

2. principles of safe working with HDS?

Allow adequate ventilation in confined spaces, avoid working in harsh weather conditions, level the vehicle and mark the work area to minimise the risk of accidents.

3. What is prohibited when working with an HDS crane?

It is forbidden to use faulty equipment, to work without a valid permit, to lift loads in excess of the permitted lifting capacity and to transport loads over people.

4. what should be done before working with HDS?

Before starting work, level the vehicle, set up supports, activate warning signals, apply the handbrake and make sure there are no bystanders in the vicinity.