Generator Lift to Roof Plant Deck
Lifting a Generator to a Rooftop Plant Deck
Finch of Bookham recently completed a rooftop generator installation using the newest addition to our fleet, the Grove 3060. Carefully planned lifting operations saw the generator safely hoisted from the delivery vehicle and positioned onto the plant deck, demonstrating the precision, capability and reliability of our team and lifting equipment on one of the crane’s first site deployments.
Planning and Site Preparation
Before any work began, our team carried out a full site assessment and coordinated closely with the client. All relevant internal permits to work were obtained from the WB Power site supervisor prior to commencing lifting operations.
Our crane was positioned, and to ensure proper ground load distribution, 2m² Alimats were laid beneath each outrigger, with 1m-diameter Nylacast mats placed on top of the Alimats before the outriggers were deployed.
Lifting Operations
With the crane fully set up, nylon lifting slings were attached to the crane hook. Using three-way radio communication, the crane hook was carefully positioned above the centre of the generator while it remained on the delivery vehicle.
The rigging team then attached the slings to the generator. A range of shackles, sling lengths and capacities were available on site to ensure the most suitable rigging configuration was used.
Under the direction of the designated W Finch & Co Ltd banksman, the crane hook was slowly raised until the slinging arrangement was secure. The lifting equipment was checked by the slinger, and a tagline was attached to assist in controlling the load during the lift.
Once all checks were complete and the team was satisfied with the arrangement, the generator was lifted clear of the delivery vehicle and hoisted to a safe height above the roof structure.
Positioning the Generator
With a banksman positioned on the roof and communication maintained via three-way radios, our crane operator slewed the load carefully over the building before lowering it onto the rooftop plant deck.
Where required, the generator was lowered onto rollers to allow it to be manoeuvred precisely into its final position. Once correctly aligned, the team used pinch bars to lift the unit slightly, removed the rollers, and carefully lowered the generator onto the plant deck.
Completion of Works
After the successful installation of the generator, our crane was safely de-rigged and all lifting equipment cleared from the site. Our team signed out in accordance with site procedures, leaving the installation complete and the area safe and tidy.
This project demonstrated the efficiency of careful planning, clear communication and experienced personnel, while also showcasing the capabilities of the latest addition to the Finch of Bookham fleet on one of its first operational lifts.
