SWA releases guidance to reinforce tower crane safety


Wednesday, 28 June, 2023

SWA releases guidance to reinforce tower crane safety

Safe Work Australia has released a model code of practice for tower cranes that provides practical guidance for PCBUs and other duty holders about managing the work health and safety risks of working with tower cranes. Tower cranes are high-risk plant, with a number of risks associated with their operation. These risks include structural or mechanical failure or collapse; contact or collision with other plant, structures or people; arcing or flashover from an energised overhead or underground electric line; and extreme weather and related damage or failure and collapse.

Other hazards include falling objects, falls from height, noise, fatigue, and extreme weather and related damages. There are often multiple PCBUs and duty holders involved in managing risks of tower cranes in the workplace. Each may have responsibility for the same health and safety matters, either because they are involved in the same activities or share the same workplace.

The model code of practice includes guidance on what to do before using a tower crane and while using the crane, and how to inspect and maintain a tower crane. The model code of practice for tower cranes can be downloaded here.

Image credit: iStock.com/shaunl

Related News

Heavy plant component uncontrolled movement lands $810K fine

The incident occurred when a heavy plant component known as a Roman Shield moved, struck and...

Cleanaway charged over fatal truck and compactor crush at Sydney tip

Listed for mention on 20 October, the Category 2 offence charge under the WHS Act carries a...

Excavator operator fined following partial foot amputation

The operator, a sole trader and civil demolition contractor, was using the excavator to uproot...


  • All content Copyright © 2026 Westwick-Farrow Pty Ltd