19.05.2014
The old 'man basket' question
In spite of industry guidance that says people should only be lifted by cranes when absolutely necessary, the use of crane man baskets appears to be as widespread as ever, and possible on the increase.
A recent example sent in by a reader in the UK shows an unusual man basket being used to work on a repair work to the 11th floor of a 19 storey building in Media City, Manchester. One has to wonder why a 50 to 70 metre truck mounted lift was not used for the job, or even a 53 metre spider lift or cradle suspended from the top of the building?
Please register to see all images
A man basket used for routine work on a building in the UK
There is an argument that with a proper risk assessment, an extra margin of safety in terms of lifting capacity and the implementation of additional safety measures, this is a perfectly safe way to do the work. However it is not as safe or as efficient as a purpose built aerial work platform, of which there are a good number available for rent in the area.
Please register to see all images
A closer look at that platform
Hardly a Death Wish, but it certainly does seem to fly in the face of FEM and CPA best practice statements on when the lifting of persons with cranes is considered appropriate.
Follow up note: It has been suggested that there are cases where heavy specialised equipment is required close to the work, in which case a crane can in such circumstances be the safest and most practical solution.
BS7121 also states that cranes should only be used when the equipment that is specifically designed for the purpose of lifting personnel is not able to do the procedure. You cannot really tell from this but looks 11 stories high so do not understand why a truck mounted boom couldn't do this job
Jibupdrive
It does appear as though there is equipment/materials in the basket, as well as the worker. As stated above, this may mean that the crane is a more suitable option; particularly if there was/is work to do on higher floors.
Let's not forget that the guidance to LOLER Regulation 5 does suggest that a crane may be used for lifting persons if the necessary measures are in place. However, it is difficult to ascertain from these photos whether or not the necessary measures are in place.
Lewis Major
As said above as long as the crane and cage is suitable and certified and rescue has been considered I for one would much rather use a crane than a cherry picker any day.