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Purpose

This guideline is intended to assist employers, constructors, owners and suppliers of cranes in complying with certain technical aspects of requirements found in Ontario Regulation 213/91, Construction Projects (the Construction Regulation). This guideline does not address all requirements that apply to cranes used at construction projects. All references to specific regulatory provisions in this guideline are to the Construction Regulation unless otherwise stated. All regulatory provisions referenced in this guideline are currently in effect unless otherwise stated that they are in effect as of January 1, 2025.

Terms

There are several defined terms used in certain requirements for cranes in the Construction Regulation.

Adequate, in relation to a procedure, plan, material, device, object or thing, means:

  • sufficient for both its intended and its actual use
  • sufficient to protect a worker from occupational illness or occupational injury

Boom means the projecting part of a backhoe, shovel, crane or similar lifting device from which a load is likely to be supported.

Competent person means a person who:

  • is qualified because of knowledge, training and experience to organize the work and its performance
  • is familiar with the OHSA and the regulations that apply to the work
  • has knowledge of any potential or actual danger to health or safety in the workplace

Competent worker, in relation to specific work, means a worker who:

  • is qualified because of knowledge, training and experience to perform the work
  • is familiar with the OHSA and with the provisions of the regulations that apply to the work
  • has knowledge of all potential or actual danger to health or safety in the work

Construction includes:

  • erection
  • alteration
  • repair
  • dismantling
  • demolition
  • structural maintenance
  • painting
  • land clearing
  • earth moving
  • grading
  • excavating
  • trenching
  • digging
  • boring
  • drilling
  • blasting
  • concreting
  • the installation of any machinery or plant
  • any work or undertaking in connection with a project but does not include any work or undertaking underground in a mine

Constructor means a person who undertakes a project for an owner and includes an owner who undertakes all or part of a project by himself or by more than one employer.

Employer means a person who:

  • employs one or more workers or contracts for the services of one or more workers
  • and includes a contractor or subcontractor who performs work or supplies services and a contractor or subcontractor who undertakes with an owner, constructor, contractor or subcontractor to perform work or supply services.

Engineer means, subject to any prescribed requirements or restrictions, a person who is licensed as a professional engineer or who holds a limited licence under the Professional Engineers Act.

Non-destructive test means one of the following methods of testing or examining a material, component or part to evaluate its condition without subjecting it to physical distortion, damage or destruction:

  • eddy current testing
  • magnetic particle testing
  • liquid penetrant testing
  • radiographic testing
  • ultrasonic testing

Project means a construction project, whether public or private, including:

  • the construction of a building, bridge, structure, industrial establishment, mining plant, shaft, tunnel, caisson, trench, excavation, highway, railway, street, runway, parking lot, cofferdam, conduit, sewer, watermain, service connection, telegraph, telephone or electrical cable, pipe line, duct or well, or any combination thereof
  • the moving of a building or structure
  • any work or undertaking, or any lands or appurtenances used in connection with construction

Self-erecting tower crane (SETC) means a tower crane that is capable of being erected without the use of ancillary equipment.

Tower crane means a travelling, fixed or climbing mechanical device or structure that has:

  • a boom, a jib or both
  • a power-driven drum and wire rope to raise, lower or move material
  • a vertical mast

CSA standards cited in the Construction Regulation and in this guideline

The Construction Regulation requires compliance with specific clauses from the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) standards for cranes published by the CSA Group. These standards include requirements for reducing the risk of workplace injuries.

CSA standards cited in Ontario’s OHSA regulations, including the Construction Regulation, and in federal, provincial, and territorial occupational health and safety regulations are available to view for free online. However, you do not have the ability to copy and paste text, print or download the standards for free. You must register with "CSA Communities" to view the standards.

Requirements regarding cranes at construction projects

The following sections provide guidance on certain requirements that apply to cranes used at construction projects. The appendix contains a checklist of requirements that apply to the use of tower cranes before and after they are erected at a project.

Setting up and dismantling a crane

This section provides guidance on certain requirements related to:

Erecting, climbing, and dismantling cranes

The term “climbing” is defined in CSA Standard Z248-17, Code for Tower Cranes as the process through which an entire crane is raised on, or within, a structure that is under construction, as the height of the structure increases.

Who can erect, climb or dismantle a crane?

Section 154 requires a crane to be set up, assembled, climbed, erected, extended and dismantled only by a competent worker. The worker must follow the written instructions of the manufacturer and not endanger any person or property. To be competent to erect, climb, and dismantle tower cranes, the worker must have a minimum level of knowledge to conduct the work safely.

Marking weight on removeable components

Section 154 also requires every portable or removable counterweight, test block and ballast used on a crane to be accurately weighed and have the weight clearly marked on them. This information is important to ensure proper components are used for the specific configuration of the crane. Accurately weighing counterweights and the other components helps to ensure the stability of a crane and that the crane is assembled in a configuration authorised by the manufacturer.

Further changes in effect January 1, 2025

As of January 1, 2025, section 157.2 will require a tower crane to be erected, dismantled, and climbed in accordance with the following clauses of CSA Standard Z248-17, Code for Tower Cranes:

  • Clause 5.1, Crane erection crew
  • Clause 5.8, Erection, climbing, and dismantling equipment
  • Clause 5.9, General erection, climbing, and dismantling procedure

These clauses include standards around:

  • the minimum level of knowledge and instruction for workers who erect, dismantle or climb tower cranes
  • the proper equipment to erect, dismantle or climb tower cranes
  • rescue procedures
  • general erection, climbing, and dismantling procedures for various types of tower cranes

Outriggers or stabilizing devices used on a crane

Section 156 requires a crane operator to know the ground bearing pressure before setting up an outrigger or stabilizing device on the crane. This is to ensure the crane is setup on ground that can support the crane and the maximum load it can carry during load-handling activities.

The manufacturer’s operating instructions and specifications for the crane should provide information about the pressures exerted by the crane. The operator or the operator’s employer should contact the constructor regarding the suitability of the ground conditions and the location for the set up during the planning of any load handling activities. Previously excavated soil or voids, such as an underground parking garage and utility vaults under the surface, may affect the stability of the ground and the equipment that is used on it. An engineer should be consulted if there are any concerns.

Section 156 also requires outriggers or stabilizing devices used on a crane to be extended to meet the load rating chart requirements. Outriggers or stabilizing devices must also rest on blocking that is able to support the crane or other hoisting device and its maximum load without failure and without deformation or settlement which affects its stability.

An operator should also be aware of the ground bearing pressure when operating a crane or other hoisting device without the use of outriggers or stabilizing devices. This is to ensure the ground that a crane or other hoisting device is set up on or moves on can support the weight of the crane or other hoisting device.

Design and inspection of the foundation, shoring and bracing

Requirements for the foundation and components that support a tower crane or tie it in place are different depending on whether the crane is mounted on a travelling base.

Requirements for tower cranes not mounted on a travelling base

Section 157 has requirements on the foundation, shoring and bracing that support a tower crane or tie it in place. The section applies to all tower cranes except for:

Depending on the installation requirements, a SETC may be set up on a foundation designed by an engineer or on outriggers. Some SETCs are not erected on concrete foundations but on other solid material or the bare ground which is considered to be a support surface. SETCs that do not require concrete foundations are excluded from the requirements in section 157. However, SETCs must comply with clause 156(c) that requires an outrigger or stabilizing device used on a crane or other hoisting device to be set up only after the operator has verified the ground bearing capacity is adequate to support the crane.

Section 157 requires a tower crane’s foundation, shoring and bracing that support a tower crane or tie it in place to be both:

  • designed by an engineer in accordance with the crane manufacturer’s specifications
  • constructed, installed, and dismantled in accordance with the design drawings subject to any deviations approved in writing by an engineer

The engineer who prepares the foundation design drawings must know the required ground bearing pressure to support the crane. Where a building or structure is supporting the tower crane, the engineer responsible for the structural integrity of the building or structure must review the design drawings for the foundation, shoring and bracing for the tower crane before the crane is erected on a project. This is to ensure the structural integrity of the building or structure.

An engineer must inspect and confirm that the foundation or support surface for the tower crane complies with the foundation design drawings and any engineer approved deviations before the concrete is poured and they must prepare a written report of their inspection. A tower crane may not be erected until the concrete foundation reaches the strength specified in the foundation design drawings.

The shoring and bracing that support a tower crane or tie it in place must be installed in accordance with the design drawings unless an engineer approves any deviations from the drawings in writing. An engineer must inspect the components after the shoring and bracing or the tie-ins have been installed and before the tower crane is put into service for the first time at a project.

The engineer must prepare a written report of the inspection that includes confirmation of whether the shoring, bracing and tie-ins have been installed in accordance with the design drawings and any engineer-approved deviations prior to the crane being put into service. Where a building or structure is supporting the tower crane, the engineer must include in the report whether the building or structure has sufficient strength to resist the crane reactions. The written report must also indicate any circumstances that would require additional inspections of the shoring, bracing and tie-ins by an engineer after the initial inspection.

After the initial inspection by an engineer, a competent worker must inspect the shoring and bracing components and tie-ins installed for the climbing operation before and after each climbing operation, unless otherwise specified by the engineer in the written report, to ensure they are in accordance with design drawings. Further inspection must be conducted weekly by a competent worker after each climbing operation to ensure all the installed shoring and bracing components and tie-ins are in place.

Each major component used for shoring the tower crane must be marked by a conspicuous label stating that the component must not be removed or repositioned unless authorized by an engineer.

A tower crane must be erected plumb to a tolerance of 1:500 unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer. It also must be plumbed while balanced and then held in the plumbed condition by wedges or other means, initially when it is set up and again after each climb.

Requirements for tower cranes mounted on a travelling base

Section 165 requires the track foundation and track of a tower crane mounted on a travelling base to be capable of carrying all loads which the track foundation is likely to be subjected to without deformation or settlement that affects the stability of the tower crane.

An engineer must prepare design drawings for the track foundation and track, including rails and ties, in accordance with the crane manufacturer’s specifications. An engineer must inspect the track foundation and track, including rails and ties, before a crane is placed on the track to confirm that the track foundation and track have been installed in accordance with the design drawings. This inspection must be done in accordance with performance standards for inspecting a tower crane set out in “Review of Tower Cranes as Required by the Occupational Health and Safety Act (PDF)” and dated November 20, 2015, published by the Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO).

The undercarriage of a tower crane mounted on a travelling base must be fitted with rail clamps that can be firmly attached to the rails to lock the crane in position. The tower crane must be locked in position on the rails when the crane is not in use. The tower crane must also have rail stops or bumpers that extend at least as high as the centre of the undercarriage wheels and that are securely attached to the rail at both ends.

Unattended or out of service tower cranes and collision prevention

Section 162 requires a tower crane boom to be able to slew freely when the crane is unattended except when:

  • the boom may collide with another crane, a structure or other object
  • to slew freely would be contrary to the written procedures of the crane’s manufacturer

When a tower crane boom cannot slew freely because of these circumstances, it must be secured in accordance with the crane manufacturer’s instructions or an engineer’s written procedures. Section 162(3) requires that unattended or out of service cranes must also be secured in accordance with clauses 8.7.1 to 8.7.5 of CSA Standard Z248-17, Code for Tower Cranes (learn how to view CSA standards cited in OHSA regulations).

Section 164 requires the load block of an unattended tower crane to be left empty, at the top position and located at minimum radius specified by the manufacturer or approved by an engineer. The only exception to this requirement is if the crane manufacturer specifies, or an engineer approves, that a weight needs to be left secured to a load block of an unattended tower crane to balance the crane if it cannot slew freely. This allows a load to be secured to the load block of a tower crane to relieve stresses by balancing the crane if it cannot slew freely due to obstructions such as another structure or crane at a project.

As of January 1, 2025, section 162.1 will require tower cranes to meet the clearance requirements in clause 8.10 of CSA Standard Z248-17, Code for Tower Cranes. This clause addresses the operating zones of overlapping tower cranes, the use of anti-collision devices, operating procedures, and communication requirements.

Design, inspection and testing of cranes, including record keeping

This section provides guidance on:

  • crane record keeping requirements
  • requirements related to the design and inspection of tower cranes
  • the role and responsibilities of engineers in the design, erection and inspection of tower cranes, including verifying tower cranes as safe to use after repairs

Crane logs

Section 152 requires the owner of a crane to keep an owner’s crane log consisting of a record of all inspections, tests, repairs, modifications, and maintenance performed on the crane. The owner’s crane log must reference the make, model, and serial number of the crane so that it can be matched to the crane to which it applies.

The owner of a crane must provide to the crane operator:

  • a record of the owner’s crane log covering at least the previous 12 months
  • an operator’s crane log for use while the crane is at the project

The operator’s crane log must be used to record all the inspections, tests, maintenance, modifications, and repairs performed on the crane while at the project.

The Infrastructure Health and Safety Association (IHSA) has a tower crane log book template and a mobile crane log book template that contain inspection checklists of crane components and a log for identifying any problems and recording any repairs or maintenance that have been completed.

Once the crane is dismantled or removed from the project, information in the operator’s crane log must be added to the owner’s crane log.

If the owner’s crane log does not include all information required in section 152, the owner must ensure that the crane is inspected in accordance with the annual inspection requirements in (as applicable):

  • clause 6.4.7 of CSA Standard Z248-17, Code for Tower Cranes
  • clause 5.3.5 of CSA Standard Z150-16, Safety Code on Mobile Cranes

This inspection must be done before a crane is put into service at a project. The results of the inspection must be added to the owner’s crane log.

Annual inspections require an appropriate non-destructive test method by a person qualified to meet the requirements of CAN/CGSB-48.9712.

Design of tower cranes

As of January 1, 2025, section 157.3 will require all tower crane components to be designed to meet the following standards:

  • Crane design: Clauses 4.1 to 4.25 of CSA Standard Z248-17, Code for Tower Cranes or European Standard EN 14439:2006+A2:2009
  • Electrical: Electrical Safety Authority SPEC -009 R0, Electrical Safety for Tower Cranes, which is available on the ESA website.
  • Control systems: Clause 4.21 of CSA Standard Z248 -17, Code for Tower Cranes

Clause 4.1.1 of CSA Z248-17, Code for Tower Cranes generally requires that the following must result in values that meet or exceed EN 14439 in the design of tower cranes:

  • the determination of the loads
  • the establishment of the strength and stability conditions for the various stress combinations

Out-of-service wind conditions must follow requirements of clause 4.1.2 of CSA Z248-17, Code for Tower Cranes and crane supports must meet requirements of Clause 4.6 of this standard.

Clause 4.3.1 of CSA Z248-17, Code for Tower Cranes generally requires materials and procedures used in the manufacturing of tower cranes manufactured after the publication date of this standard (December 2017) to meet or exceed the standards set out in EN 14439. This is to ensure that the material is adequate with respect to such factors as strength, weldability, temperature range, notch toughness, fatigue and corrosion resistance.

Clause 5.2.1 of EN 14439, requires the calculation of the crane strength and stability to be done using:

  • the current standards (FEM 1.001 or DIN 15018-1, DIN 15018-2 and DIN 15019-1)
  • Annex A for stability during erection or dismantling

Among these standards that the EN 14439 refers to for stability and strength, FEM 1.001 is the most popular and has been used by most crane manufacturers. The latest edition of FEM 1.001 is from 1998. The latest edition of DIN 15018-1 and DIN 15018-2 is from 1984 and the latest edition of DIN 15019-1 is from 1979.

Additional requirements for tower cranes and their components are specified below:

  • Tower crane support and load chart meets CSA Z248-17, Code for Tower Cranes clause 4.6 to 4.7.
  • Tower crane is equipped with items listed in CSA Z248-17, Code for Tower Cranes clause 4.8 to 4.20 and 4.25 as reported by a competent tower crane mechanic or technician.
  • Controls meet CSA Z248-17, Code for Tower Cranes clause 4.21.
  • Electrical equipment and grounding meet CSA Z248-17, Code for Tower Cranes clause 4.22 to 4.24.
  • Electrical Safety for Tower Cranes meets Electrical Safety Authority SPEC-009 R0.

If a tower crane manufactured before January 1, 2025, is not manufactured to these specific standards, an engineer must verify that the tower crane was manufactured to an equivalent standard or that the tower crane has been retrofitted to meet these standards.

Pre-erection and post-erection inspections of tower cranes

Section 158 requires pre-erection and post-erection inspections of tower cranes to be conducted in accordance with the performance standards set out in the “Review of Tower Cranes as Required by the Occupational Health and Safety Act” dated November 20, 2015 and published by the Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO). Refer to the PEO’s practice bulletin for information about what is expected of engineers for inspecting tower cranes in accordance with the PEO’s performance standards.

In accordance with the PEO’s practice bulletin, section 158 requires an engineer or multiple engineers to ensure that the following parts of a tower crane are inspected in accordance with the PEO’s performance standards:

  • structural elements
  • electrical, mechanical and hydraulic components
  • control systems

An engineer or multiple engineers could conduct the inspection themselves, or they could have others conduct the inspections depending on their discipline or expertise. For instance, the inspection of the electrical and mechanical components of tower cranes could be carried out by electricians and mechanics. Each engineer who conducts the inspections or under whose direction inspections are done must prepare a written report of the inspections and test results and confirm that components are in adequate condition based on the results of the inspections and tests. The engineers conducting the inspections and tests would be responsible for the inspections and tests that they conduct, as well as the inspections and tests that are conducted by technicians designated by them to conduct the inspections and tests.

Except in the case of self-erecting tower cranes, this inspection must be conducted before a tower crane is erected at a project and before it is put into service after being erected. While the tower crane is erected at a project, this inspection must be conducted at least once every 12 months or as often as is recommended by the crane manufacturer, whichever is more frequent.

For self-erecting tower cranes, this inspection must be conducted before the crane is put into service for the very first time. After that first inspection, inspections must be conducted:

  • at least once every 12 months while the crane is in use at a project
  • after every 12 erections of the crane
  • or as often as is recommended by the crane manufacturer, whichever occurs first

The inspection of the structural components of a tower crane must include non-destructive tests before the tower crane is erected at the project. Once the tower crane is erected, non-destructive testing is not required unless determined by an engineer. Every non-destructive test must be performed by a person qualified to meet the requirements of CAN/CGSB-48.9712.

These inspections and non-destructive tests, as well as any repairs to correct any defects identified from these inspections and tests, must be recorded in the operator’s crane log.

Periodic comprehensive inspections of tower cranes

As of January 1, 2025, section 159.1 will require an engineer to ensure that a tower crane’s structural elements, its electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic components and its control systems that may affect the structural integrity, stability or motion of a tower crane or its load are inspected:

  • before the tower crane is erected at a project, if 10 years have elapsed since the time the tower crane was manufactured
  • once every 10 years after the date of the last inspection before the tower crane is erected at a project

If 10 years has elapsed since the date that a tower crane was manufactured or last inspected in accordance with section 159.1 while the tower crane is erected at a project, the tower crane does not need to be dismantled to be inspected in accordance with this section before it is finished being used at the project. It must only be inspected before it is erected again at a project.

This must include an inspection of the following:

  1. structural components including:
    • visual inspection of all welds and non-destructing testing of some welds as determined by an engineer
    • measurements of the consistency of wall thickness within the closed section of the structural components to confirm the sections are compliant with the original design requirements
  2. rotating shafts, gears, hook blocks, and mechanical linkages for signs of cracks, damage, or wear using non-destructive testing
  3. hydraulic components, which must have the pressure at which pressure relief valves actuate measured and the hydraulic holding valves used to stop movement in the case of pressure loss tested
  4. components that routinely wear due to use, including clutch plates, brake pads, sheaves, wire ropes, bushings and pins, which must be measured to confirm that they are within tolerances specified by their manufacturers
  5. non-structural components that may be subject to cracking, damage or wear
  6. components listed below must undergo operational tests in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions to confirm that they are in adequate condition and operating in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications:
    • brakes
    • slew ring
    • hydraulic motors
    • hydraulic pumps
    • valve blocks
    • hoist and luff drums
    • gearboxes and drive shafts

The inspection required for all the components listed in #1 to #4 should include non-destructive tests and they may need to be dismantled after considering the following:

  • content of the previous verifications (pre- and post-erection inspection)
  • results of the current tests
  • results of the current visual checks

The operational tests for the components listed in #6 do not require the components to be dismantled.

The inspection and tests described in this section should be conducted by a person with knowledge, training and experience that permits them to identify any defects and the appropriate actions to correct or repair the defect. The engineer responsible for ensuring these inspections are done can conduct the inspection and tests by themself or the inspections and tests can be conducted by someone under the engineer’s direction.

Any defects identified in the inspection must be corrected or repaired in accordance with the instructions of the tower crane or component manufacturer or an engineer.

The engineer must prepare a report of the inspection verifying that all required inspections and operational tests are conducted and that the results are satisfactory. The report must include:

  • results
  • observations
  • measurements
  • records from the inspection and tests
  • confirmation that any defects identified have been corrected or repaired
  • confirmation that the corrected or repaired components are in adequate condition

Proof testing of wire rope terminations on tower cranes

Section 171 requires terminations installed on wire ropes used on a tower crane to be proof tested in accordance with the recommendations of the wire rope or termination manufacturer, but in no case to more than 50% of the wire rope’s nominal or minimum rated breaking strength.

Permanent records of the proof testing must be kept for the life of the terminations.

If the tower crane is in service at a project before this requirement came into effect on January 1, 2024, the wire rope termination must be proof tested once the tower crane is taken down at the project and before being put back in service. The results must be recorded in the owner’s crane log.

Other inspections and operational tests while a tower crane is erected at a project

These inspections and tests, as well as any repairs to correct any defects identified through these inspections and tests, must be recorded in the operator’s crane log.

Operational tests, load tests and regular inspections

Sections 161 and 161.1 requires that a competent worker perform operational tests, load tests and the required daily, weekly and monthly inspections of a tower crane. The operational tests and load tests must be done in accordance with section 161. The daily, weekly and monthly inspections must be done in accordance with section 161.1. To assist with the daily inspection of the structural pins and keepers on a luffing boom tower crane, visual aids could be used to confirm that the structural pins and keepers are properly in place, in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Whatever visual aid is appropriate for ensuring that the structural pins and keepers are properly in place would depend on the specific circumstances.

Climbing system inspections

Section 159 requires an engineer to ensure that the climbing system for a tower crane is inspected in accordance with the performance standards for inspecting a tower crane published by the PEO. This inspection must be conducted before the initial climbing operation and at least once every 12 months after that while the tower crane is erected at a project.

Visual cable inspections

Section 170 requires a competent worker to visually inspect cables used by a crane at least once every week while the crane is in use at a project or more frequently if recommended by the cable manufacturer.

Rated load carrying capacity of cranes

Subsection 151(1) prohibits a crane from being subjected to a load greater than its rated load-carrying capacity, other than during load tests required by the manufacturer. A manufacturer may require this to test the maximum load a crane can lift for a specific configuration.

Subsection 151(2) requires the manufacturer of a crane or an engineer to determine the rated load-carrying capacity of the crane in accordance with:

  • CSA Standard Z150-16, Safety Code on Mobile Cranes or CSA Standard Z150.3-17, Safety Code on Articulating Boom Cranes (for a mobile crane)
  • CSA Standard Z248-17, Code for Tower Cranes (for a tower crane)

The operator of a crane must have access to the load rating charts. Load rating charts set out how the lifting capacity of a crane varies depending on how the crane is set up, such as how far the boom of a crane is extended and the angle of the boom, if applicable. The operator must be able to read the load rating charts while at the controls of the crane to determine the maximum load that can be lifted for each configuration without overloading the crane. To achieve this, subsection 151(3) requires every crane to have affixed to it the load rating charts or a plate with the crane model and serial number or another traceable method that can be used together with the load rating charts while the operator is at the controls.

Subsection 151(3.1) requires the operator who uses a remote-control device to always have access to a load rating chart while operating a remote-controlled crane.

As of January 1, 2025, all luffing boom cranes (including a tower crane luffing boom crane) must have a boom angle indicator that the operator can read while at the controls, as required in subsection 151(4). Before this date, only luffing boom cranes, other than a tower crane luffing boom crane, must have a boom angle indicator that the operator can read while at the controls.

Notice of failure to control a crane or a load

O. Reg.. 420/21 sets out requirements for the notices and reports required under sections 51 to 53.1 of the OHSA that must be provided to the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD) and/or other specified workplace parties following any fatalities, critical injuries, occupational illnesses and other prescribed incidents or occurrences at the workplace.

Subsection 4(3) of O. Reg.. 420/21 requires a constructor to give written notice to the MLITSD if there is an overturning or a structural failure of all or part of a crane, or if there is a failure to control a crane or a load including any rigging failure, except where section 162 of O. Reg.. 213/91 permits the crane to slew or rotate freely. Section 162 permits this to reduce the forces of wind pressure on the structure of the crane, and it is not considered a failure to control a crane.

Notice also needs to be submitted, within 2 days, to the:

  • joint health and safety committee
  • health and safety representative
  • trade union, if any

Subsection 5(1) of O. Reg.. 420/21 also requires an engineer’s written opinion stating the cause of the incident. This written opinion must be provided to the MLITSD within 14 days after the incident.

Failure to control a crane or a load, including any rigging failure, may be a result of a fault with the:

  • crane control systems
  • mechanical components such as any cable
  • load block
  • braking systems
  • rigging arrangement
  • rigging equipment supporting the load

Learn more about reporting workplace incidents.

Appendix - Checklist of pre-erection and post-erection requirements for tower cranes at construction projects

These checks are intended to help comply with the pre-erection and post-erection requirements for tower cranes in O. Reg.. 213/91 that are in effect as of January 1, 2024.

Pre-erection inspection, non-destructive tests and reports

[Sections 1(1.1), 158, 171(3)]
Non-destructive tests (NDT) carried out and interpreted by a person certified by Natural Resources Canada to the appropriate level in accordance with the version of the CAN/CGSB Standard 48.9712-2014, Non-destructive Testing — Qualification and Certification of Personnel.

  • Engineer ensures that the tower crane is inspected in accordance with Ontario Regulation 260/08 (Performance Standards) made under the Professional Engineers Act.
  • Pre-erection inspection report prepared indicating the tower crane was inspected in accordance with O. Reg. 260/08 performance standard.
  • Record of turntable slew ring bearing inspected (NDT), maintained and bolts replaced and torqued per manufacturer specifications and recommendations prior to crane erection.
  • Verification that all electrical components and connections met Electrical Safety Authority SPEC-009-R0 Electrical Safety for Tower Cranes.
  • Major structural tower crane components marked with a unique identifier to be used to when referring to structural components in the reports for inspection, testing, and certification for repairs and modifications, including:
    • individual mast sections
    • turntable
    • apex or tower top or A-frame
    • counter jib sections
    • counter jib pendants
    • boom sections
    • boom pendants
    • counterweights
    • trolley
    • load block with hook or hook ball
  • Defects identified through inspections corrected or repaired.
  • Engineer report of:
    • inspection
    • test results
    • any corrections or repairs
    • confirmation that all components are in adequate condition
  • Proof testing report for all wire rope terminations of a cable used on tower crane.

Installation

Installation in accordance with manufacturer instructions

[Sections 154]

  • Crane erected in accordance with the manufacturer’s written instructions and the design drawings.
  • Counterweights, test block and ballast accurately weighed with weight clearly marked on them.
  • Nuts, bolts, pins, or fastenings are the size and quality specified by the manufacturer.

Design and inspection of tower crane foundations and components that support tower cranes

[Section 157]

Note: refer to section 165 for cranes mounted on a travelling base.

  • Geotechnical engineer’s soil report (ground-bearing capacity) for crane base/foundation meets requirements of the crane installation.
  • Project-specific foundation, shoring and bracing design drawing(s) prepared by engineer.
  • Foundation was constructed in accordance with the design drawing and pre-pour inspection report prepared.
  • Concrete compressive strength report meets requirements of installation drawing.
  • Shoring installed in accordance with the design drawings and report prepared.
  • Main shoring components have label stating that they must not be removed or repositioned unless authorized by an engineer.
  • Bracing for support or tie-in designed by engineer and installed in accordance with the design drawings and report prepared.
  • If a building or structure will support the tower crane, the engineer responsible for the structural integrity of the building or structure reviews the design drawings for the foundation, shoring and bracing for the tower crane.
  • The engineer who reviews design drawings and installation of crane signed drawings upon approving them.

Plumb tolerance

[Section 157.1]

  • Tower crane erected plumb to a tolerance of 1:500 unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer.
  • Tower crane plumbed while balanced and held in the plumbed condition initially when it is set up and again after each climb.

Requirements for tower cranes mounted on a travelling base

[Section 165]

  • Design drawings for the track foundation and track, including rails and ties, prepared by an engineer in accordance with the crane manufacturer’s specifications.
  • Track foundation and track, including rails and ties, inspected by an engineer in accordance with the performance standards for inspecting a tower crane as prescribed by Ontario Regulation 260/08 (Performance Standards) made under the Professional Engineers Act before a crane is placed on the track to confirm that the track foundation and track have been installed in accordance with the design drawings.
  • Undercarriage of a tower crane mounted on a travelling base fitted with rail clamps that can be firmly attached to the rails to lock the crane in position.
  • Tower crane locked in position on the rails when not in use.
  • Tower crane has rail stops or bumpers that extend at least as high as the centre of the undercarriage wheels and that are securely attached to the rail at both ends.

Post-erection inspections

Post-erection inspections before and after putting a tower crane into service

[Sections 158, 185 and 186]

  • Engineer ensures that a tower crane, excluding self-erecting tower crane, is inspected in accordance with O. Reg. 260/08 (Performance Standards) made under the Professional Engineers Act before and after its erection and at least once every 12 months after that while the crane is in use at a project.
  • Engineer ensures that a self-erecting tower crane is inspected in accordance with O. Reg. 260/08 (Performance Standards) before the crane is put into service for the first time, and thereafter at intervals not greater than 12 months while the crane is in use at a project, after every 12 erections of the crane or as often as is recommended by the crane manufacturer, whichever occurs first.
  • Defects identified through inspections corrected or repaired.
  • Engineer report of:
    • inspections
    • test results
    • any corrections or repairs
    • confirmation that all components are in adequate condition
  • Electrical Safety Authority report – crane power source – able to be locked out of service.
  • Crane properly grounded electrically and for lightning.

Inspection of climbing system

[Sections 157(10) to (13) and 159]

  • Shoring and bracing that support a tower crane or tie it in place was inspected by an engineer after installation and before the tower crane is put into service for the first time at a project.
  • Engineer report prepared.
  • Competent worker inspects shoring and bracing components and tie-ins installed for the climbing operation before and after each climbing operation (unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer) and weekly after each climbing operation.
  • Engineer ensures that the climbing system, if any, is inspected in accordance with Ontario Regulation 260/08 (Performance Standards) made under the Professional Engineers Act before the initial climbing operation and at least once every 12 months after that while the tower crane is erected at a project. Engineer report of the inspection is prepared and confirms that components are in adequate condition.

Daily, weekly, and monthly inspections after putting a tower crane into service

[Section 161.1]

  • While a tower crane is erected at a project, a competent worker inspects certain tower crane components on a daily, weekly and monthly basis in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and at a minimum inspection done for the components and timelines prescribed in s. 161.1.

Inspection of cables and rigging

[Sections 172-176 and 168]

  • Load block, hook and rigging equipment inspected and confirmed as adequate — record of inspection and maintenance work prepared and included in the operator’s crane log.
  • Cable is compatible with the crane installation (type, size, grade, and construction recommended by manufacturer of the crane).

Safe access

[Sections 26.3, 26.9(8), and 93]

  • Guard rails or fall protection system for access to operator cabin, on boom and counter-jib.
  • Following drawings, horizontal lifeline, if any, and site-specific design installed.
  • Access ladder:
    • is secure
    • has consistent rungs
    • has no defects or loose rungs
    • has offset landings

Safe operation

[Sections 151, 93, 163, 109, 161(3) and (4) ]

  • Operator has access to information to safely operate a tower crane, including:
    • load rating chart
    • wind speed indicator
    • temperature indicator
    • operator manual
  • Other requirements for safe operation of tower cranes:
    • Manufacturer allowance or engineer report of items which increase the wind-exposed area (signage, etc.).
    • Cab orientation in accordance with the regulation.
    • Guarding for mechanically operated equipment.
    • Test blocks weight clearly marked and kept at the project
    • Unattended or out-of-service tower cranes secured in accordance with clause 8.7.1-8.7.5 of the CSA Standard Z246-17, Code for Tower Cranes

Operational tests

[Section 161]

  • Competent worker performs operational tests after the tower crane is erected on a project and before it is put into service and at least once a week after that while the crane is erected at a project to ensure the following:
    • Limiting and indicating devices are installed and functioning in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications or an engineer’s instructions.
    • All clearances and alignments are adequate.
    • Gearing and all other moving parts are operating correctly.
    • Controller switches and other control devices are operating correctly.
    • All limit switches are operating correctly.
    • All circuits, interlocks, and sequences of operation are operating in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications.
    • All protective devices are operating correctly.
    • The audio device near the base of travelling cranes is operating correctly.
    • Each motion of the crane operates in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications.

Record keeping

[Section 152]

  • Logbook, including maintenance records, kept up-to-date