Full-Service Construction Engineering & Project Management Consulting Firm
July 14, 2022
Before any lift planning can begin, it is crucial to undergo a thorough site survey and site planning process. This process allows the contractor and construction team to fully comprehend all the obstacles and details that must be considered to complete a comprehensive lift plan.
What is the engineer looking for?
Before the engineer conducts the initial site survey, they will need to identify as much information prior to site visit as possible.
The engineer will identify as many street objects as necessary to complete lift plan drawings. Some important items to consider include:
Parking and Traffic Planning
Oftentimes, cranes must be set up in the public right of way to perform the lifting operation. During the site survey the engineer must account for public transit, bike lanes, outdoor dining, and emergency vehicle access. Depending on the street conditions, such as width, and the crane selected, a partial or full street closure may be required.
If the closure impacts a bus route, MTA must be notified in advance to reroute the buses the day of the operation. If the crane is set up within 200’ of an above or below ground subway, MTA must be notified, and a separate submittal package must be prepared for them to review if there is any impact on their structures or systems.
Regardless of a partial or full closure, the fire department, police department and emergency services must be notified well in advance of the operation.
What information & reports are needed to obtain permits?
The next step in lift planning is to obtain a certificate of operation from the Department of Buildings (DOB) Cranes and Derricks Division, a Crane Notice application package must be submitted for review. This includes, but is not limited to, crane drawings, wind action plan, crane product data, outrigger/ crawler support designs, letters indicating coordination with various project Engineer of Record (EOR).
Typically, there is one engineering firm that is the project EOR. It's possible that they may subcontract out parts of the work to smaller firms or specialty firms. For example, Geotech work is usually subcontracted out. It's also possible that the contractor may have an in-house engineer perform the support of excavation design. There may be instances where letters from 3 - 4 different EOR’s are required to submit with the crane notice application.
In order to obtain a partial or full street closure permit from Department of Transportation (DOT), you must have an approved crane notice and/or a master rigger letter, provide proof of notifications to local agencies, a plan indicating what traffic controls will be put in place.
What are the costs associated with this?
Costs for all permits vary based on several factors. Cranes and Derricks permits vary based on boom length. DOT permits vary based on number of permits required, days each permit is valid. DOB permits vary based on days each permit is valid.
Who can perform a site survey?
A site survey can be performed by any qualified member of the crane engineering team. It is important to gather as much information as possible to place on the drawings to ensure there are no conflicts with the crane(s), street objects, other equipment, or anything else involved in the operation.
What happens if my project does not engage with an engineer?
Not consulting with an engineer early in the lift planning process may lead to project delays, fines or even the failure to get the operation off the ground. When taking on any new construction project, it is imperative to have the right engineer involved to navigate the feasibility study and permitting process.
For more information, please contact us today!
(516) 234-0890