12.5.4 General Considerations

Other matters which should be taken into consideration when selecting mobile supporting structures include:

  1. The runway beam must be fitted with positive travel stops (end stops) to prevent the trolley or load colliding with the supporting structure.

  2. The finish and protection of the structure should also be considered as this will usually be supplied primed and painted or self-colour as standard. Some further finishing may therefore be necessary to protect the mobile supporting structure due to its environment, e.g. outdoor or high humidity, or to protect the goods being handled, e.g. food products.

  3. In the case of mobile supporting structures which are to be exposed to the elements or where similar conditions apply, consideration should also be given to the provision of weather guards to prevent corrosion of the runway track and to offer protection to the lifting appliance.

  4. Movement and location of the mobile supporting structure must be considered. Although the surface over which the mobile supporting structure is to be moved will have been taken into account when selecting the castors or wheels, it must be remembered that small objects, e.g. stones or metal offcuts, can wedge under wheels. Steps must be taken to avoid such hazards. Similarly, floor loadings must be considered. The floor must be capable of sustaining the point loadings that will be imposed through wheels, jacks, etc. Account must be taken of hidden hazards such as underground pipes and cables which may affect this. Consideration must therefore be given to the use of floor spreader plates.

  5. As previously stated, mobile supporting structures are not intended for movement under load. Should this be necessary, a standard mobile supporting structure should not be selected. The manufacturer should be consulted and the requirements discussed in detail. Any special mobile supporting structure supplied for movement under load must be used strictly in accordance with the manufacturer’s written instructions and is excluded from this section of the code.

  6. The mobile supporting structure, together with its associated hoist and trolley, should be covered by the documentation required by legislation. If this is not on record refer the equipment to a Competent Person for thorough examination.