What should be a primary concern when setting up a crane on a construction site with new buildings?

When setting up a crane on a construction site, the primary concern should be the presence and condition of underground pipes. This focus is crucial because underground utilities can pose significant hazards during crane operation. If a crane or its load inadvertently strikes or disturbs buried pipes, it can lead to severe consequences including utility outages, environmental spills, potential injuries, and costly repairs.

Understanding the location and type of underground services is vital for safe operations. Proper site surveys, utility maps, and coordination with utility providers can minimize the risks associated with underground infrastructure. In contrast, while wind speed, power lines, and general weather conditions are certainly important safety considerations, they typically pertain more to the operational phase of crane lifting rather than the specific setup stage. Therefore, ensuring that underground pipes are identified and accounted for before setting up a crane is paramount.