The number of cranes across city blocks and in suburban streets has skyrocketed in recent years, and with this increased use, the consultation on more than 20 draft standards could not be better timed.

“The high level of construction activity across Australia is calling on safety precautions around cranes at a greater rate and impacting more and more people,” says Roland Terry-Lloyd, head of standards development for Standards Australia. “Our aim is to help keep those that work on site, and individuals near active cranes, safe. We are eager to receive feedback on the direction of these drafts.”

The Standards Australia technical committee responsible for these draft standards has progressed several projects to public comment. These draft standards seek to align Australian safety guidance to that of the international crane industry.

“Australian experts have played a significant role in shaping relevant international standards, which has enabled the Australian safety guidance to be promptly updated and aligned with international practice. As a result, we can strengthen our national crane sector,” says Terry-Lloyd.

“Crane safety originates with their design and continues through to their use,” says Brandon Hitch, CEO of the Crane Industry Council of Australia (CICA). “It is critical that Australia uses the latest crane standards developed on the world stage and adapted to Australian conditions. CICA supports the continuous review and modernization of Australian standards and have worked hard on these projects for the benefit of the entire crane industry.”

Members of the construction, transport, manufacturing, and public safety sectors are all encouraged to make their views known by submitting comments here by April 6, 2020.

“This work is further proof of the value of Standards Australia being a prominent voice in international standards development, to help improve the quality of products, processes, and services across Australia,” concludes Terry-Lloyd.