25 years of experience

What Is a Dual Crane Lift?

A dual crane lift involves using two cranes to lift an object. It’s a complex job that requires skilled operators, a lift plan and various safety procedures. Dual lifts are used for:

 

  • Construction 

  • Equipment manufacturing 

  • Stage production

  • Marine projects

  • Industrial tasks 

  • Shipping and transportation. 

 

Dual Lift Benefits

Executing lifts with two cranes offers benefits like better weight distribution, safety and project management. 

More Lifting Capacity

One significant advantage of multi-lifting is managing heavier loads. Two cranes can support double the weight of a single one. They can increase your lifting capabilities and services. 

Safe and Precise

Lifting heavy objects can be hazardous if you don’t have suitable support. More than one crane offers greater load management and safety. 

Manage Complex Lifts

Some lifts require manoeuvring through narrow spaces and over high structures. These can be challenging with one crane. Dual cranes offer more capabilities when working in awkward areas. For example, in a narrow alley, one crane can be positioned parallel and the other vertically to provide more flexibility and control. 

Greater Stability 

Overloading cranes can lead to tip-overs and severe injuries. In dual lifts, the load and weight are shared between two cranes. This even distribution offers stability and balance, minimising tip-overs and other accidents. 

 

Best Practices 

Before executing a multi-lift, you must know the best practices for doing so safely.

 

  • Develop a pre-lift plan: All lifts require a lift plan. This document details how heavy a load is and helps you determine which crane to use. It also outlines the weight of both cranes and how the load will be distributed between them. 

  • Choose the right rigging equipment for the job. These tools include slings, rope and hooks that can support the weight of the load. Inspect your equipment and ensure they are in excellent condition to avoid safety hazards. 

  • Communicate: Use hand signals and other communication methods to coordinate lifts with crane operators. A trained spotter or dogman can oversee the lift and ensure operators are in sync. 

  • Evaluate site safety: Ensure the ground is stable and level to support cranes. Checking for power lines is also important to prevent electrical hazards. 

  • Safety gear: Wear protective equipment like gloves, helmets and goggles before starting. 

  • Clear the site: Coordinate with labourers and ensure they keep a safe distance during lifts. 

  • Test lift: Lift the load slowly to check the balance of the load and ensure it is stable before proceeding. 

  • Post-lift checks: After the lift, inspect the cranes for damage and discuss what can be improved for the following projects. 

 

Tandem Lifting Risks  

Knowing the risks involved in multi-crane lifts is important for improving your processes and creating a safer environment. 

  1. Uneven Weight

Both cranes must carry the same weight. The cranes can tip over or swing around if the load is uneven or heavier on one side. 

  1. Overloading 

All cranes are unique, and some can support more weight than others. Ignoring a crane’s limits and lifting more weight than it can manage can cause accidents. 

  1. Communication Breakdown

If operators are out of sync or move at different times, lifting can be unsafe and lead to severe accidents and injuries. Hand signals and effective communication are essential for coordinating lifts.

  1. Weather Changes

Lifting in weather like strong winds and severe storms can impact operator visibility. Project managers or supervisors must assess the weather and avoid planning lifts in severe conditions. If the waters change during a lift, they must stop all work until it’s safe to continue. 

  1. Rigging Failures

Rigging is one of the most critical steps in crane lifts. It is the equipment you use to tie and secure the load on the crane. Using improper rigging equipment and techniques can lead to loads coming loose and falling during lifts. 

  1. Operator Inexperience 

Tandem lifts are complex and require skill and training. Inexperienced operators might lack the necessary training and readiness for these jobs. They can make mistakes that lead to accidents and injuries.  

  1. Poor Planning

Poor planning is one of the leading causes of accidents in tandem lifting. When lifts are not accurately planned and tested, they can be hazardous for workers and the general public. 

 

Plan Your Dual Hoist With St Georges Cranes

Preparation is key for a dual crane lift.  You need suitable cranes, safety procedures, lift studies and rigging equipment. Without them, you risk unsafe and ineffective lifts.

We can help you plan and execute a successful tandem lift. St. Georges Cranes is a leading crane hire company offering comprehensive services in Sydney, NSW. We have well-maintained cranes with advanced safety management systems, traffic control plans, comprehensive lift studies, quality rigging tools, operator training and protective equipment. 

 

Contact us today to get started with your dual hoist. 

 

Date posted: January 30, 2025 | St George Cranes
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