What is a potential risk of not accounting for radius when operating a crane?

When operating a crane, accounting for radius is critical because it directly affects the stability and safety of the crane during lift operations. The radius refers to the distance from the center of rotation of the crane to the load being lifted. If the radius is too large for the load and the configuration of the crane, it can lead to a shift in the center of gravity, increasing the likelihood of the crane tipping over.

When the load is positioned further away from the crane’s center of rotation, the leverage exerted on the crane can exceed its structural limits, compromising stability. This is particularly risky in situations where the ground conditions or crane configuration already challenge the machine’s capacity. Failure to properly manage the radius can lead to catastrophic accidents, highlighting the importance of adhering to load charts and understanding the implications of lift radius on crane safety.