The Crane Manufacturers Association of America (CMAA), the leading authority on overhead traveling and gantry cranes, has released its popular Crane Operator’s Manual in the Spanish language.

The English version of the manual, Specification No. 79 from CMAA, is already the chosen reference for operators of overhead cranes used in factories and warehouses across North America.

CMAA Engineering Committee vice president Pete Kerrick said: “We were receiving more and more requests from factory managers asking for a Spanish version of the Crane Operators Manual. We are pleased that Spec No. 79 can now be read and understood by crane operators whose first language is Spanish”.

The Crane Operator’s Manual is divided into user-friendly sections, including Crane Operators, Crane Motions, Inspections and Handling the Load.

Kerrick added: “Operation of a crane involves more than operating the controls. The operator must consider and anticipate the motions and actions that will occur as a result of operating the controls. Overhead cranes generally handle materials in proximity to working areas where there are personnel. Therefore, it is important for the crane operator to be instructed in the use of the crane and to understand the severe consequences from careless operation.”

Conforming to good safety practices is the responsibility of the crane owner, the user and its operating personnel. The Crane Operator’s Manual is a go-to resource for personnel responsible for crane operation in the variety of applications that use cranes.

CMAA is an independent incorporated trade association affiliated with the Material Handling Industry (MHI). Its members represent the leaders in the overhead crane industry. The spec is now available in paper copy or downloadable PDF format and in either English or Spanish versions from CMAA’s dedicated section of the MHI website