Guide to tower crane foundation and tie design

Tower cranes are a vital element in the construction process. There are around 1500 tower cranes in the UK and at any time around 1000 are in use. Tower cranes are often used on construction sites in urban areas and, although rare in the UK, any collapse of the crane is likely to result in injury to members of the public outside the boundaries of the site as well as those working inside the site. This guide is intended to promote the safe design and construction of foundations for tower cranes through an improved understanding of temporary works design and health and safety issues. The initial sections are aimed at those who need to understand the issues related to the safe use of tower cranes, and it highlights key situations where a specialist should be consulted.