A vehicle loading crane (VLC) is a crane mounted on a vehicle for the purpose of loading and unloading that vehicle.

When not operated in accordance with the instructions provided by manufacturers, VLCs pose significant risks to people and property. There have been several fatalities, serious injuries and property damage when manually-operated stabilisers on vehicles fitted with a VLC have unintentionally extended during travel on public roads.

To ensure the safety of all, beginning this month, Workplace Health and Safety Queensland (WHSQ) and the Department of Transport and Main Roads (DTMR) will conduct an enforcement campaign to ensure VLC owners and operators are complying with relevant work health and safety and road safety requirements. And, have implemented adequate controls to reduce the likelihood on unintentionally extension of manually operated stabilisers and outriggers.

Enforcement actions will be taken if inspectors identify unmanaged risks relating to VLCs.

To help you manage the risks associated with VLCs, owners and operators are encouraged to conduct a self-assessment of their VLCs to ensure that stabiliser and outrigger risks are effectively controlled. Please refer to our safety alert and self-assessment tool (PDF, 260.05 KB). Inspectors may request a completed copy of the self-assessment during on-road activities during this campaign.

Source: Do you own or are licenced to operate a vehicle loading crane? www.worksafe.qld.gov.au

29 Aug 2018