Risk assessment of mobile crane overturning in Asymmetric Tandem Lifting (ATL) operation based on fuzzy fault tree analysis (FFTA)

Abstract

Lifting operation, especially Asymmetric Tandem Lift, is one of the essential activities in the construction industry, posing a substantial threat to sustainable management. This study aims to assess the risk of crane overturning in ATL using the fuzzy fault tree analysis method. The risk factors affecting crane overturning were identified and quantified. the required information was collected through literature review, previous incidents data and expert opinions. The weight of experts was determined based on a combination of two methods, including conventional scoring methods and the best-worst fuzzy method. A total of 53 events in four categories of loading technique, weather conditions, ground failure, and organizational factors were determined as the main factors of crane overturning. The probability of the crane overturning was 10.68%. The highest probability of occurrence among 34 minimum cut sets was related to the risks due to failure in the supply of modern equipment and technologies (0.132), failure in load/equipment information provided by the manufacturer (0.125) and failure in instructions and administration (0.110). The proposed method in this study could reduce the ambiguities and uncertainties in identifying and evaluating risk factors. Moreover, presented prevention strategies could enhance the reliability and sustainability of cranes in asymmetric tandem lift operations.

Keywords

• Lifting operation
• Asymmetric tandem lift method (ATL)
• Crane overturning
• Fuzzy fault tree analysis (FFTA)