What does ANSI/ASME B30.5 require cranes to have to avoid two-blocking?

ANSI/ASME B30.5 specifically addresses the requirements for mobile and crawler cranes, particularly in relation to safe operating practices and equipment standards. One of the critical aspects of crane operation is the prevention of two-blocking, which occurs when the load hook or the load block comes into contact with the boom point or sheave assembly. This can cause significant damage to the equipment and pose serious safety hazards.

To mitigate the risk of two-blocking, ANSI/ASME B30.5 mandates the use of anti-two-block devices or damage prevention devices as essential safety features on cranes. These devices serve to provide a physical barrier or generate an alert when the hook is raised too high in relation to the boom, thereby preventing the two-blocking condition from occurring. Incorporating these devices enhances the safety mechanisms of the crane and ensures compliance with regulation standards aimed at protecting workers and equipment during operation.

Other options, while relevant to crane safety and operation, do not specifically address the issue of two-blocking. For instance, automatic load limiters are designed to prevent overload situations, remote control operations pertain more to operator positioning and control, and emergency stop features focus on quickly ceasing operations in case of an emergency. None of these directly prevent the risk associated