When is it permissible to side load a crane boom?

Side loading a crane boom occurs when the load is applied laterally, which can create unsafe conditions for the crane. The correct situation where side loading may be permissible is when the crane is supporting a freely suspended load. When a load is freely suspended, it generally does not exert lateral forces on the boom in the same way that other configurations might, allowing for some tolerance to side loading.

In a scenario involving a freely suspended load, the dynamics of the load can be more controlled as the load can swing or shift without applying direct lateral stress that could destabilize the crane. It’s important to recognize that while normally side loading should be avoided to maintain the crane's stability and integrity, a freely suspended load mitigates risks associated with lateral forces on the boom.

Other scenarios, such as side loading with an evenly distributed load or during emergency operations, do not align with safe practices. Evenly distributed loads do not negate the risk of lateral forces, whereas emergency operations often necessitate a careful consideration of many factors that could compound the risks involved. Additionally, allowing side loading when the load is 50% or less of capacity doesn’t account for the inherent dangers involved with lateral force and can lead to a failure or accident. Thus, the safest and most