Overview
ISO 7296-2:2020 - Cranes - Graphical symbols - Part 2: Mobile cranes specifies standardized graphical symbols for use on operator controls and displays for mobile cranes (as defined in ISO 4306‑2). The document defines how symbols are presented, coloured, oriented and combined so that crane operator interfaces are clear, consistent and language‑independent. It is intended to improve safety, usability and global interoperability of mobile crane controls and displays.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope and application: Symbols apply to operator controls and other displays on mobile cranes (see ISO 4306‑2 for crane definitions).
- Normative references: Relies on IEC 80416‑1, ISO 80416‑2 and ISO 7000 for symbol creation, arrow form and registered symbols.
- Symbol construction and use:
- Symbols are shown in Clauses 5–12 (Basic, Transmission, Brake, Fuel, Lighting, Window, Outrigger).
- Symbols may be filled or outlined for clarity; minor adaptations (line thickness, rounded corners) allowed if essential characteristics remain intact.
- Orientation rules: side views assume movement right→left; top views assume movement bottom→top.
- Symbols are presented at 32% of original size with a 75 mm grid reference.
- Colour conventions (for illuminated displays):
- Red: failure, serious malfunction or dangerous condition requiring immediate attention.
- Yellow/amber: approaching dangerous condition.
- Green: normal operating condition.
- Blue: specific use (e.g., main/high beam); other colour assignments for hazard warnings and turn signals are specified.
- Symbol positioning and legibility:
- Symbols must be located on or adjacent to the control they relate to.
- Movement of controls should correspond directionally to adjacent symbols.
- Sizing and contrast requirements follow IEC 80416‑1 guidance.
- Symbol families included: Basic symbols, Transmission (gears, neutral, park, reverse), Brakes, Fuel, Lighting (front/rear fog, beacon), Windows (demist/defrost), Outriggers (beam/jack in/out/up/down).
Applications and users
ISO 7296-2 is used by:
- Crane manufacturers and OEMs designing operator cabs, control panels and displays
- Human factors and UI/UX engineers working on machine interfaces
- Safety managers and compliance officers documenting machine controls and labels
- Technical writers, trainers and maintenance teams creating user manuals and operator training materials
- Regulatory bodies and procurement teams specifying conformity to international symbol standards
Practical benefits include improved operator comprehension, reduced language barriers, consistent maintenance practices, and enhanced safety and ergonomics for mobile crane operations.
Related standards
- ISO 4306‑2 (Cranes - Vocabulary - Part 2: Mobile cranes)
- ISO 7000 (Graphical symbols for use on equipment - Registered symbols)
- IEC 80416‑1 / ISO 80416‑2 (Principles for graphical symbols and arrow form)
Keywords: ISO 7296-2:2020, graphical symbols, mobile cranes, crane controls, operator displays, ISO 7000, IEC 80416, outrigger symbols, transmission symbols, crane safety.
