MAN/Specific Tasks/TBT-MAN-018

Mini Crane and Spider Crane

Manual Handling › Specific Tasks › Mini Crane and Spider Crane

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Mini cranes and spider cranes are compact lifting machines used where full-size cranes cannot access.
They are commonly used inside buildings, on rooftops, in restricted areas, and on sensitive floor surfaces.
Despite their small size, mini cranes can lift loads from 1 to 10 tonnes depending on the model.
All mini crane operations are subject to LOLER 1998 and require a lift plan for every lift.
Spider cranes have extending legs (outriggers) that must be fully deployed on firm, level ground.
Floor loading must be checked before operating a mini crane inside a building or on a suspended slab.
The crane must have a current LOLER thorough examination certificate before use on any site.
Operators must be trained and competent — CPCS or manufacturer certification is typically required.
The small footprint of spider cranes can give a false sense of security regarding stability.
Wind loading affects mini cranes significantly due to their lighter weight and shorter boom length.

Prevent overturning	Mini cranes overturn if outriggers are not deployed correctly or floor loading is exceeded.
Legal compliance	LOLER 1998 requires a lift plan, thorough examination, and competent operator for all lifting operations.
Protect workers	Loads dropped from mini cranes in confined spaces cause serious crush injuries in areas with limited escape room.

Don't

Prepare a lift plan for every mini crane lift, no matter how simple it appears
Check the crane has a current LOLER thorough examination certificate before use
Verify floor loading capacity before operating a mini crane inside any building
Deploy all outriggers fully onto firm, level ground with spreader plates beneath
Ensure the operator holds valid CPCS or equivalent certification for the crane type
Establish an exclusion zone around the crane and load during all lifting operations
Check wind conditions before lifting — mini cranes are more affected than larger machines
Use the crane's load moment indicator and do not exceed the rated capacity at any radius
Brief all personnel in the work area on the lift plan and exclusion zone before lifting
Inspect all slings, shackles, and lifting accessories before attaching them to the load

DON'T operate a mini crane without a specific lift plan approved for the task
DON'T set up on floors or surfaces without confirming they can support the crane and load
DON'T operate with outriggers only partially extended or without spreader plates in place
DON'T exceed the rated load capacity at any boom radius shown in the load chart
DON'T allow untrained or uncertified personnel to operate the mini crane
DON'T lift loads over people — enforce the exclusion zone at all times during lifts
DON'T assume the crane is stable because it looks small — overturning risk is real
DON'T use a mini crane with an expired or missing thorough examination certificate
DON'T travel the crane with a suspended load unless the manufacturer permits it
DON'T ignore the load moment indicator alarm — lower the load and reassess immediately

See also: Lifting Operations Awareness (LOLER) | Lifting Accessories Pre-Use Checks

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