Due to their tall construction, warning devices for cranes are essential not only for the general public but also for nearby aircraft. These warning signals help construction workers and pilots alike to detect a possible danger and give a signal to avoid collisions with other cranes, structures and aircraft. The use of beacons helps to minimise this risk.
When installing a beacon on a crane, it is essential to consider the standards required – for example the number of obstruction lights to use, their visibility and position. It is also necessary to ensure they meet the regulations of ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) and FAA (Federal Aviation Administration).
When choosing the correct obstruction light, the type of crane and its height needs to be considered; the type of crane will be the basis for the number of lights needed to be installed and the height is the basis for the type of obstruction light required.
Standards do change and get updated, so please do check with your local authority before installing to a crane, but currently the standard height is 150 meters. If a crane is below this height, an obstruction light is required only if it’s location can be a danger to air navigation. If a crane is above this height, an obstruction light must be installed.
As a guide, the type of light to be fitted:
Low Intensity fixed red lights.
Used on cranes and tower cranes between 60 to 90 meters high, they are usually installed on top of the crane to ensure visibility. These lights should be visible in every direction.
Medium Intensity fixed red lights.
Used on cranes between 90 to 150 meters high, they are usually installed on top of the crane and on the cranes jib. These lights should be visible in every direction.
2000cd fixed red lights.
These lights are installed for night use.
For cranes that are 150 meters tall and above, they are installed close to the top and placed with a 50 meter gap in between. For every additional 50 meters on the crane’s height, an additional beacon needs to be installed.
See more here: https://beaconlamps.com/products/visual-warning-signals/i.c.a.o.-warning-signals/