4. Safety devices

Accident trends show that the majority of accidents (both personal and otherwise) occurred during assembly, testing and lifting of loads. The main causes are :

• dimensioning of machine foundations ;

• Wind-induced overturning, when the crane is in use, but also when it is "out of service" in exceptional winds;

• tipping due to overload.

To date, some 3,000 GME cranes have been erected, and twice as many GMAs. The "crane selection manager" therefore had to formalize the entire process involved in making the "right choice" of crane, while meeting the needs of the site and guaranteeing the necessary control measures.

The crane operator and site mechanic must be able to identify the various safety devices fitted to the crane...