What is BS 7121-2-1 - Safe use of cranes about?
BS 7121-2-1 is a part of a multi-series of British standards on code of practice for the safe use of cranes, which covers its inspection, maintenance and thorough examination.
BS 7121-2-1 gives general recommendations for the pre-use checks, in-service inspection, maintenance, thorough examination (following installation, in service and following exceptional circumstances) and supplementary testing of cranes and associated equipment, including gantries, runways and other supporting structures.
Note: BS 7121-2-1 is not applicable to construction hoists, mast climbing work platforms, mobile elevating work platforms, jacks and suspended access equipment.
Who is BS 7121-2-1 - Safe use of cranes for?
BS 7121-2-1 on code of practice for the safe use of cranes is useful for:
- Crane operators, users and owners
- Construction managers
- Health and safety executives
- Site project managers
- Regulators and testers
Why should you use BS 7121-2-1 - Safe use of cranes?
BS 7121-2-1 gives general recommendations for the pre-use checks, in-service inspection, maintenance, thorough examination (following installation, in service and following exceptional circumstances) and supplementary testing of cranes and associated equipment, including gantries, runways and other supporting structures.
BS 7121-2-1 also applies to hoists, derricks, telehandlers, fork lift trucks and excavators when used to lift suspended loads. For the purposes of BS 7121-2-1 all these are included under the term “cranes”.
Use of the guidance given in BS 7121-2-1 can help protect the safety of crane operators and can also be taken as an indication of good practice on site.