Track and swing crane and jib arms

This Standard involves operating cranes and jib arms safely and, when required, tracking the whole assembly. It is about understanding the limitations of rigs within their operating environment, complying with industry guidelines, and conducting risk assessments.

This Standard is for anyone who tracks and swings crane or jib arms.

1. check assembly and ensure that relevant safety certificates are valid
2. move cameras in a smooth motion in line with directors' or camera operators' requirements on each occasion
3. time movement to fit shot requirements
4. identify moves which are outside the capabilities of equipment or restricted by the people available
5. report limitations to relevant production staff and seek and present viable solutions
6. give clear notification of cranes' or jibs' intended routes to all relevant people
7. check that routes are free from non-essential people, cables and other obstructions
8. communicate with other people in ways that enhance the quality and effectiveness of moves
9. secure cranes or jibs in line with operating procedures before any personnel get on or off, simultaneously agreeing all such movements with any other operators
10. take appropriate measures to make sure no-one gets on or off cranes or jibs before they are instructed to do so by crane operators
11. check that cranes or jibs are a safe distance from any high voltage cables
12. check that wind speeds are within cranes' or jibs' operational limits
13. ensure that there is good visibility of both ends of crane or jib arms at all times and that there are no obstacles, personnel or other obstructions during use
14. check that fitted equipment and accessories will remain safe and secure in line with legislation, guidance and best practice for the duration of their use
15. provide production with risk assessments in line with health and safety requirements
16. operate crane or jib arms in line with current regulations and guidance
17. secure and protect equipment when not in use in line with manufacturers' instructions

1. relevant legislation, guidance and industry best practice
2. the correct way to assemble crane and jib arms
3. how to obtain safety certificates
4. how to evaluate the stability of surfaces on which crane or jib arms will be mounted
5. the principles of operating cranes, jibs and tracking equipment
6. safety considerations of any tracking equipment
7. the positional limitations of the equipment being used
8. the benefits of teamwork and how to communicate with others
9. how to carry out risk assessments and who to communicate the results to
10. how wind speeds affect the use of cranes and jibs
11. safe working distances from high voltage cables
12. how to maintain good visibility of both ends of crane or jib arms
13. how to check that fitted equipment and accessories are safe and secure
14. how to ensure no-one gets on or off cranes or jibs unless authorised
15. how to secure cranes or jibs when not in use
16. why it is important to keep equipment dry and free of dust, sand and other debris