Rules for Crane Operation

This page is very much in development - here I will keep notes on the NZR rules relating to crane operation

Working timetables (NI 1947 and SI 1952) general instructions refer to rules 186-188 and 211-216 for cranes.

Travelling:
In the general instructions section of the working timetable arrangements for all crane types, and restrictions and requirements for individual cranes were specified (see the steam and hand crane listings for examples of the latter). Before a crane travelled the District Traffic Manager would make arrangements on receipt of advice from the District Engineer and District Mechanical Engineer that the crane was fit to be run. Certain lines, such as the Rimutaka incline also required a certificate from a Car and Wagon Inspector or Train Examiner specifying the crane was fit to run.

In preparation to travel, the regular cranedriver or a competent fitter (or a person otherwise nominated by the District Mechanical Engineer) was to secure the slewing mechanism and the outriggers with the locking gear provided. That locking gear was to be secured with split pins or stout wire to ensure it remained locked. All doors were also to be secured. Axle box chocks were to be removed or screwed up clear of the axle boxes. Any travelling gear was to be disengaged, and the handwheels for any operating gear secured.

Cranes were to be accompanied while travelling. For steam and diesel cranes, the driver (or in his absense a train examiner) was to ensure everything remained safe for travelling, and that lubrication was attended to. For other cranes, the Locomotive Foreman was to assign a suitable person to attend to lubrication. Cranes which were piped only but authorised to travel were to be placed in marshall order.

Source: NZR Working Timetable (NI 1947 and SI 1952).