CSA Z248-17 (R2022)

Preface

This is the third edition of CSA Z248, Code for tower cranes. It supersedes the previous editions published in 2004 and 1975. It applies to the design, construction, installation, inspection, testing, maintenance, and safe operation of tower cranes.

This new edition of CSA Z248 includes updated requirements to the following:

• design and construction;
• crane supports;
• erection dismantling, and climbing;
• maintenance and repair;
• safe operation and rescue plan;
• out of service wind requirements;
• electrical and brake redundancy;
• foundation and climbing; and
• wire rope.

Scope

1.1 General

This Standard applies to the design, characteristics, construction, installation, dismantling, operation, inspection, testing, and maintenance of tower cranes.

This Standard applies to tower cranes powered by electric motors or internal combustion engines and any variations thereof that retain the same fundamental characteristics. The scope includes cranes of these types that adjust operating radius by means of a
a) boom-luffing mechanism;
b) trolley traversing a horizontal boom; or
c) a combination of the two.

This Standard is also intended to cover self-erecting tower cranes. Tower cranes can be mounted on fixed or travelling bases. Additional mounting means can include arrangements that permit the crane to climb in the structure being built or that permit increasing the tower height as the structure rises.

1.2 Purpose

This Standard is designed to
a) guard against and minimize injury to workers, and otherwise provide for the protection of life, limb, and property by prescribing safety requirements;
b) provide direction to owners, employers, supervisors, crane erectors, operators, and others concerned with, or responsible for, its application; and
c) guide governments and other regulatory bodies in the development, promulgation, and enforcement of appropriate safety directives.

It is also expected that this Standard will have a major application in industry, serving as a guide to manufacturers, purchasers, and users of the equipment.

1.3 Application

This Standard applies to new and existing tower cranes unless otherwise specified in this Standard.