Overhead and gantry cranes - New Jersey

New Jersey follows federal OSHA regulations for overhead and gantry cranes.   

The New Jersey Licensing of Crane Operators Act (N.J.S.A. 45:26-1 et. seq.) and its corresponding regulations (N.J.A.C. 12:121) regulate the operation of certain power-operated hoisting machines only when used in construction, demolition, or excavation work. Therefore, these rules do not apply to the licensing or regulation of overhead or gantry cranes in an industrial setting.

Overhead cranes, however, are regulated when used in pits and quarries, as follows:

• Cranes equipped with a cab must have a fixed ladder or stairs with handrails to afford safe passageway from ground or floor to crane cab and from crane cab to bridge foot-walk.
• A walkway with standard railing, toe-board and safe access to the ground must be mounted outside rail supports and run the full length of the operating area.
  • Where such a walkway is not available, a rope or chain ladder must be stored and permanently anchored in the crane cab so that in an emergency the operator can reach the ground at any point in the operating area.
• An effective warning signal securely fastened must be placed within easy reach of each crane operator.
• Every crane cab must be equipped on all sides with a railing or with an enclosure equivalent to a standard railing and toe-board.
• A crane bumper extending 1/3 of the truck-well diameter above the rail must be fastened securely at each end of each rail of the crane runway.
• Every crane trolley must be provided with a solid floor or pan extending under the entire trolley.
• A limit switch must be provided ahead of the bumper so that the crane cannot hit the end of the runway with the power on.
• A switch in the main power circuit which can be locked open must be placed above each crane cab within easy reach of the bridge or walk.
• In connection with each switching block there must be provided an overtravel cutoff switch that will automatically stop the up-travel of the block before it strikes the bridge.
• Only authorized persons may be permitted to ride on cranes.
• Trolley lines must be located on the opposite side of the runway from the cab and must be protected from contact with swinging hoisting cables.
• Mechanical inspection of crane machinery and equipment must be made daily, and detailed inspection by a competent person must be made weekly. A written record of weekly inspections must be maintained.