Use of cantilevered crane loading platforms

Cantilevered crane loading platforms and how to use them safely.

Cantilevered crane loading platforms (CCLPs) are temporary platforms. They are often used during the construction or demolition of multi-storey buildings and structures. CCLPs are used so that materials and equipment can be shifted to or from floor levels.

The platform is generally cantilevered from the side of the building. This is to allow loads to be directly raised or lowered by tower cranes or mobile cranes.

Cantilevered crane loading platforms are sometimes set up in a simply-supported mode, such as over penetrations or voids. They can also be set up for use as:

• loading platforms
• access platforms
• protection decks.

Check other manufacturers for uses and comply with manufacturer's instructions.

To install a cantilevered crane-loading platform, use the specific manufacturer 's recommendations.

Cantilevered crane loading platform

Cantilevered crane loading platform with crane

Types of cantilevered crane loading platforms

CCLPs are available in different designs, including fully fabricated and demountable types. They may have either fixed platforms or rolling platforms.

The needles of CCLPs can be anchored to the supporting structure in several ways, such as:

• through-bolting
• bolting into cast­ in inserts
• reveal-propping.

Note: reveal props can also have different designs. They may be:

• purpose­ designed
• integral components
• general-purpose adjustable building props laced together with scaffold tubes and couplers.

CCLP diagram

The platform

The platform needles should be positively secured against lateral displacement.

A minimum of two signs must be in clear view on the platform that state:

• the maximum uniformly distributed load, and
• the maximum concentrated load that the platform can carry.

The platform decking should be flush with and abutting the floor slab. If not, suitable ramps should be fitted.

There should not be any gap between the platform and the site handrails.

Platforms located on the side of a building facing a public roadway should not extend beyond the line of the property boundary. Overhead protection needs to be considered for public safety.

Rear prop method

Rear prop method

Installing a SuperDeck

To install the SuperDeck while extended, either the wheels (preferred method) or a pipe roller are required once the crane slews toward the building and the SuperDeck rolls in.

When the rear chains get close to the building, the crane can lower the SuperDeck until the rear chain comes loose and the front chain takes the weight. The dogger then unhooks the rear chains and the SuperDeck rolls in on the front chains.

Superdeck installation using piper roller

How to install a SuperDeck on wheels and using a pipe roller

Safe use of CCLPs

Platforms are not to stick out further than overhead protection. Overhead protection needs to be considered for workers and public safety.

Gates must be closed at all times except for long loads. All platforms must be kept clean and clear of loose materials.

Platforms should only be used in the manner for which they were designed. Any alterations or different use of the platforms should be to an engineered design.

Before use

Before the platform can be used:

• all bolts or connectors must be secured and tightened in position as per manufacturer’s instructions
• all props must be plumb and have the rear ties in position
• adjustable props must be adjusted to ensure minimal adjustable jack extension
• rear handrails must be in position
• the side panels and gates must be positively fixed in position.

During use

While the platform is being used:

• only doggers and riggers are allowed on the platform when loading or unloading
• platform should only be access by authorised personnel
• personnel on loadings platforms are not to stand under live loads when on the loading platforms.

Rolling platforms

Rolling CCLPs are platforms which can be rolled inside the building and back out again. This makes loading and unloading easier.

The two braces at the front of the platform, and the two locking pins on the left and right side must be in position and secured at all times for lifting, transporting and use as a loading platform.

The tie bar at the rear of the platform is to be used at all times when lifting or transporting the platform.

The spreader bar under the platform is to be secured and in position at all times.

How to use a rolling platform

Move the platform deck forward until it connects with the end of the beam.

Secure the left and right side locking pins. Close the gates and place the left and right brace in position. To move the platform backwards, reverse the procedure.

Refer to AS4576 for more information.