Manitowoc GROVE RT890E Operator's Manual page 28

SAFETY INFORMATION
If applicable to your crane, the use of nylon (nylatron)
sheaves, as compared with metallic sheaves, may change
the replacement criteria of rotation- resistant wire rope.
NOTE: If applicable to your crane, the use of cast nylon
(nylatron) sheaves, as compared with steel
sheaves, will substantially increase the service life
o f w i r e r o p e . H o w e v e r, c o n v e n t i o n a l r o p e
retirement criteria based only upon visible wire
breaks may prove inadequate in predicting rope
failure. The user of cast nylon sheaves is therefore
cautioned that a retirement criteria should be
established based upon the user's experience and
the demands of his application.
Batteries
Battery electrolyte must not be allowed to contact the skin or
eyes. If this occurs, flush the contacted area with water and
consult a doctor immediately.
When checking and maintaining batteries exercise the
following procedures and precautions:
• Disconnect the batteries.
• Wear safety glasses when servicing batteries.
• Do not short across the battery posts to check charge.
Short circuit, spark, or flame could cause battery
explosion.
• Maintain battery electrolyte at the proper level. Check
the electrolyte with a flashlight.
• If applicable to your crane, check battery test indicator
on maintenance-free batteries.
• Do not break a live circuit at the battery terminal. Turn
the battery disconnect switch on. Then, disconnect the
ground battery cable first when removing a battery and
connect it last when installing a battery.
• Check battery condition only with proper test equipment.
Batteries shall not be charged except in an open, well-
ventilated area that is free of flame, smoking, sparks,
and fire.
2-14
Work Practices
Crane Access
You must take every precaution to ensure you do not slip
and/or fall off the crane. Falling from any elevation could
result in serious injury or death.
Never exit or enter the crane cab or deck by any other means
than the access system(s) provided (i.e., steps and grab
handles).
If necessary, use a ladder or aerial work platform to access
the boom nose.
Do not step on surfaces on the crane that are not approved
or suitable for walking and working. All walking and working
surfaces on the crane should be clean, dry, slip-resistant,
and have adequate supporting capacity. Do not walk on a
surface if slip-resistant material is missing or excessively
worn.
Do not use the top of the boom as a walkway.
Do not step on the outrigger beams or outrigger pads (floats)
to enter or exit the crane.
Wear shoes with a highly slip-resistant sole material. Clean
any mud or debris from shoes before climbing onto the
crane. Excessive dirt and debris on the hand-holds, access
steps, or walking/working surfaces could cause a slipping
accident. A shoe that is not clean might slip off a control
pedal during operation.
Do not make modifications or additions to the crane's access
system that have not been evaluated and approved by
CraneCARE.
Job Preparation
You must inspect the crane prior to your work shift - checking
for cracked welds, damaged components, and evidence of
i m p r o p e r m a i n t e n a n c e ( c o n s u l t M a n i t o w o c / G r o v e
CraneCARE Maintenance and Inspection Manual).
You must ensure that the crane is properly equipped
including access steps, covers, doors, guards, and controls.
You must ensure that the outriggers and stabilizers are
properly extended and set before performing any lifting
operations.
Wear appropriate clothing and personal protective
e q ui p m e n t w h e t h e r o r n o t r e q u i r e d b y l oc a l o r j o b
regulations. Be prepared for the work day.
RT890E