Lifting operations have been highlighted as a key area of focus for current and future work by IMCA, including the incident reporting scheme and mention in recent safety flashes.

To assist with the specification and ordering of cranes, either new from a builder for second hand purchase or for hire, IMCA has produced this general guide.

While offshore crane design is unique, in that almost every new build crane will be a one-off to meet specific requirements, this document discusses various aspects of crane design and performance in general terms to enable a functional specification to be presented to potential suppliers in the early stages, which can then be built on with detailed technical specifications as the design is finalised. The guidance describes the multiple issues that purchases/ hirers of cranes need to consider if they are to ensure that the crane delivered on site is best suited for its intended purpose. It is intended to help avoid problems that can arise if a crane does not perform as required because of something overlooked in its specification.

The production of this guidance involved the writers visiting and questionning a number of manufacturers and end users around the world. The format is aimed at being user-friendly, with a comprehensive questionnaire and checklist supported by explanatory notes, which are keyed to reference numbers within that checklist. It can also be tailored to suit individual company needs.