Introduction
In any lifting operation, proper documentation of lifting equipment is critical for safety and compliance. Whether dealing with Rigger & Banksman, Crane Operators, Lifting Supervisors, or Appointed Persons, you must attach an Authorization to Operate document specifying crucial details. This post will guide you through each required field, explain how to calculate essential values, and provide examples for popular crane brands: Zoomlion, Liebherr, and SANY.
Understanding Each Field
| Field | Meaning & Explanation |
|---|---|
| Control | Type of control method: Manual, Remote, Pedestrian, Non-Operator, Rider Operator. |
| Level | User competency level: Operator, Supervisor, etc. |
| Make & Model | Manufacturer and model of the equipment (e.g., Zoomlion QY-30V, Liebherr LTM 1040-2.1). |
| Attachments | Extra tools fitted: Hook, Forks, Barrel Clamp, etc. |
| Energy Source | Power type: Diesel, Battery, Petrol, Hybrid. |
| Rated Capacity | Maximum load the equipment can handle under ideal conditions (from manufacturer’s data plate). |
| Load Centre | Distance from the lifting point to the load’s center of gravity (important for forklifts/telehandlers). |
| SWL (Safe Working Load) | Maximum load safely handled considering configuration (can be less than rated capacity based on boom/radius). |
| Radius | Distance from center of crane rotation to vertical centerline of load. |
| Height | Vertical reach or boom height when lifting the load. |
How to Calculate Key Fields
1. SWL (Safe Working Load) Calculation
Formula (simplified):
SWL = Rated Capacity – Safety Factors (based on boom angle, extension, attachments, etc.)
Use the manufacturer’s load chart to check SWL at the given radius and boom length.
2. Load Centre (Forklifts and Telehandlers)
Usually measured in mm from the mast:
Standard is 500mm or 600mm unless otherwise stated.
If load center exceeds standard, reduce lifting capacity accordingly.
3. Radius and Height
Radius is measured horizontally from crane center to load.
Height is boom vertical lift height (vertical distance to hook).
Use the crane’s boom charts for detailed lookup.
Real Examples
Zoomlion QY-30V Mobile Crane
Control: Rider Operator
Level: Operator
Make & Model: Zoomlion QY-30V
Attachments: Hook
Energy Source: Diesel
Rated Capacity: 30 Ton
Load Centre: N/A (for mobile crane)
SWL: ~16 Ton at 8m radius
Radius: 8 m
Height: 32 m
Liebherr LTM 1040-2.1 Mobile Crane
Control: Remote / Rider Operator
Level: Operator
Make & Model: Liebherr LTM 1040-2.1
Attachments: Hook
Energy Source: Diesel
Rated Capacity: 40 Ton
Load Centre: N/A
SWL: ~35 Ton at 3-6m radius
Radius: 3 m – 14 m
Height: 35 m
SANY STC250H Mobile Crane
Control: Rider Operator
Level: Operator
Make & Model: SANY STC250H
Attachments: Hook
Energy Source: Diesel
Rated Capacity: 25 Ton
Load Centre: N/A
SWL: ~20 Ton at 6m radius
Radius: 6 m
Height: 32 m
Example SWL Calculation Table (Simplified)
| Crane | Boom Length (m) | Radius (m) | Rated Capacity (Ton) | SWL (Ton) |
| Zoomlion QY-30V | 30 | 8 | 30 | 16 |
| Liebherr LTM 1040-2.1 | 35 | 6 | 40 | 35 |
| SANY STC250H | 32 | 6 | 25 | 20 |
Downloadable Resources
- EngineerHow_Lifting_Authorization_SANY_STC250H
- EngineerHow_Lifting_Authorization_Liebherr
- EngineerHow_Lifting_Authorization_Zoomlion
- Lifting_Equipment_Spec_Form_EngineerHow
(Note: Files include automatic calculation formulas for quick reference.)
Conclusion
Ensuring all fields are correctly documented when authorizing lifting equipment operation is crucial for safety and legal compliance. Understanding and calculating SWL, radius, and other parameters using real examples like Zoomlion, Liebherr, and SANY cranes ensures smooth lifting operations.
Stay safe, lift smart!
Comment below if you’d like more crane-specific templates or load chart interpretations!
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