I heard about an anti collision device fitted onto cranes to prevent collision between 2 cranes. Can someone let me know details about this device? How does it work? Where is it installed etc.. Regards, P

P you did not mention the type of crane but generally these devices are used on track mounted over head cranes (OHC) where more than one crane is operating on the same track or on Tower Cranes to operate on approach to a hazard. The devices use radio, infra-red or laser to measure / detect the proximity of the adjacent crane or other obstruction. Detection of the obstruction eg adjacent crane, may operate an alarm in the cab of the crane or at the remote control box to warn the driver of the hazard; or it can be configured to trip power to the crane causing the brakes to be automatically applied. NB There are operational and safety considerations as to whether the device is installed to trip power and stop the crane, or to simply trigger a warning signal so that the driver can take the necessary action Steve

P, where we have muliple overhead cranes working on the same pair of rails these systems are an absolute necessity as no matter what training you give your operators there will inevitably be times when there will be collisions or near miss incidents without these systems in place, we use an IR emitter/ receiver & reflector system, the system operates a beacon and removes the upper travelling speeds on the 'together' directions, however it is still possible to seperate the cranes at higher speeds, it is also important to provide sufficient run down area between the cranes (both comming together at high speed) , but remember you may also wish to travel down the rails with a tandem lift! Best of luck Nick