What is required for an excavator to be used safely as a crane?

For an excavator to be safely used as a crane, it is essential to have a lifting lug that is specifically approved by the manufacturer, along with a Safe Working Load (SWL) marked on it. The lifting lug is a critical component that ensures the excavator can handle the intended loads without risking failure or accidents. The approval by the manufacturer guarantees that the lifting lug is designed to withstand the forces associated with lifting operations and is compatible with the excavator’s structure and capabilities.

In contrast, relying on additional support from on-site personnel, a weight limit that isn’t specified by the manufacturer, or using a generic lifting chain does not ensure the safe operation of the excavator in lifting scenarios. These factors could lead to unsafe lifting conditions and increase the risk of injury or equipment damage. Proper equipment and manufacturer's specifications are vital for maintaining safety standards when using excavation machinery for lifting tasks.