Overview
ISO 9942-3:2020 - "Cranes - Information labels - Part 3: Tower cranes" sets the minimum requirements for identification and operational labels on tower cranes. It defines where and how type plates, capacity charts and safety labels must be presented so that crane operators and people within the working range can read and act on critical information. This part is intended to be used together with ISO 9942-1 (General).
Key topics and technical requirements
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Identification data (type plate)
- Manufacturer’s data must follow ISO 9942-1.
- Type plates must be durable, legible and affixed inside the cabin or - if no cabin - at the slewing table in an easily accessible place.
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Rated capacity data (capacity charts / plates)
- A durable rating chart must be visible to the crane operator at each control station.
- For remote-controlled cranes, capacity information must be on the remote, on a plate attached to it, or on plates visible from the ground.
- Charts must include load ratings across: operating radii, jib lengths, hoist-line reevings, operating modes, hoist-line velocity ranges (where appropriate), and relevant counterweight arrangements.
- Charts should show precautionary notes, maximum permissible in-service wind, and which lifting devices are included or excluded.
- If plates are fixed to the jib, they must remain legible from the operating position and the ratio between successive capacity plates shall not exceed 3/2.
- Electronic indicating devices may be used to display actual load, actual radius and allowable maximum radius.
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Controls, indicators and operator information
- All controls and indicating devices must be labelled with symbols or words indicating function and motion direction. Use symbols from ISO 7296-3 and IEC 60204-32; direction conventions per ISO 7752-3.
- Emergency instructions and manufacturer-determined warning notices must be placed where clearly visible to the operator.
- Operator tasks are specified per ISO 9942-1:2015.
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Information for persons within working range
- Hazard warnings, prohibition and mandatory action signs must be displayed using symbols from ISO 7010 or ISO 13200; design principles per ISO 3864.
- All signs must be described in operation and safety manuals.
Practical applications and users
This standard is essential for:
- Tower crane manufacturers - to design compliant type plates, capacity charts and control labelling.
- Equipment designers and OEMs - for integrating electronic load/radius displays.
- Site managers and contractors - to verify crane labelling meets safety and regulatory expectations.
- Crane operators and maintenance staff - to access accurate capacity and safety information for safe operation.
- Safety and compliance officers - to audit signage and operator information against ISO requirements.
Related standards
Keywords: ISO 9942-3:2020, tower cranes, information labels, capacity charts, crane signage, type plate, rated capacity, crane operator safety, equipment labeling.
