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Many of our cranes, such as the STGO ARTIC Heavy Crane, are large and strong vehicles designed to carry tremendous loads. From shipping to construction, heavy haulage cranes have many uses and are essential in many different types of operations.
However, how can you ensure that you are using heavy cranes safely? How can you effectively make the most of your heavy cranes while still complying with regulations? Our guide on STGO regulations will help you understand more about the laws in place and will help you to effectively use heavy cranes while being safe and diligent.
What does STGO stand for?
STGO stands for Special Types General Orders. This term refers to a set of laws and regulations in place concerning the use of heavy or abnormal vehicles on UK highways.
In most cases, there are weight limitations on vehicles within the Road Vehicles Regulations. However, under STGO rules, less common vehicles are allowed on public roads for a number of different reasons.
Special orders can be issued by National Highways or the Vehicle Certification Agency.
What vehicles can be used under STGO orders?
Because cranes are large by nature, most heavy haulage cranes are used under STGO orders. Mobile cranes which are specially built for haulage or lifting operations are most likely to come under STGO laws. But you may also find other vehicles such as trailers for engineering operations or road recovery vehicles.
The conversion vehicles carrying these cranes can also contribute to the weight and can cause the crane to exceed the maximum weight issued by the Road Vehicles Regulations. This is why STGO orders are important in allowing cranes to operate legally and safely.
What categories of STGO vehicles are there?
STGO vehicles are categorised based on weight. There are three main categories:
CAT 1: this category covers vehicles of up to 50,000 kg. Vehicles under CAT 1 must display the STGO CAT 1 plate. They must also give two working days’ notice to highway authorities concerning the weight of the vehicle. They may travel at a speed limit of 60 mph on motorways and 40 mph on other roads.
CAT 2: this category covers vehicles up to 80,000 kg and a maximum axle weight of 12,500 kg. They must display the relevant plate and are restricted to a speed limit of 40 mph on highways.
CAT 3: this is the maximum weight at 150,000 kg and minimum axle weight of 16,500 kg. They require five working days’ notice to highway authorities. Speed limit is restricted to 40 mph on highways and 30 mph on other roads.
STGO orders require the vehicle to display the maximum weight as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. Essentially, all important information must be shown clearly.
Vehicles exceeding the weight limit of 150,000 kg or 16,500 kg axle weight must be approved by a special order and you must always carry the special order authorisation in the vehicle at all times – like a driving licence.
Want to check these regulations yourself to see where your vehicle would come under? You can find the full government regulation page here.
Why are STGO vehicles important for industries?
The ability to carry heavy loads is essential in many industries and that’s why knowledge of STGO regulations is so important. It’s important to all the people involved in transport operations, including operators, transport managers and drivers. A vast number of industries make use of these laws, including:
- Construction
- Engineering
- Heavy haulage
- Waste management
- Road recovery
- Shipping
Some of the heaviest loads to be transported by STGO vehicles could include machinery, construction materials, industrial equipment,shipping containers and bulky stock items like refrigerators, for example. So many industries rely on STGO vehicles to effectively carry heavy loads to and from locations throughout the country.
STGO regulations allow companies to do this safely. By adhering to weight restrictions and speed limits, it’s beneficial to both the people and the loads involved, ensuring that all essential loads get to their destinations without complications. Thanks to STGO laws, companies can carry out their operations.