Introduction
This Method Statement covers the loading and unloading of cable drums for 66 kV underground cable laying works. It defines safe work execution procedures for moving cable drums from a centralised store onto trailers and transporting them to the cable laying site.
Cable drums for EHV projects are heavy and fragile — improper handling can cause sheath damage or internal conductor deformation that may not be visible but can lead to failure under high voltage. All operations must be carried out under the supervision of an experienced Site Engineer and Safety Engineer.
Sequence of Activities
All loading and unloading operations follow this sequence without exception:
Material & Equipment Required
The following tools, plants and materials are required for all loading and unloading operations. Third-party test certificates must be available at site for all T&P during operations.
| # | Equipment / Material | Purpose | Specification |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Crane | Lifting cable drums | Appropriate capacity for drum weight |
| 2 | Trailer | Transporting cable drums | Appropriate load capacity |
| 3 | D Shackle | Rigging connection | Rated for drum weight |
| 4 | Chain Block | Controlled lifting | Appropriate capacity |
| 5 | Slings | Securing drum to crane hook | Appropriate capacity for drum weight |
| 6 | Hydraulic Jack | Raising drum for spindle insertion | Appropriate capacity for drum weight |
| 7 | Wooden Blocks | Wheel chocking — crane & trailer | Front & rear wheels both sides |
| 8 | Chain / Rope | Securing drum on trailer; drum tie-up before lifting | Rated for drum weight |
| 9 | Miscellaneous Hand Tools | General rigging & securing | As required |
Loading Procedure — Store to Trailer
- Arrange a crane of appropriate capacity for the drum weight and position it at the centralised cable drum store.
- Block all front and rear wheels of both the crane and trailer with wooden blocks before any lifting begins.
- Tie up each cable drum with rope before attaching slings to prevent rotation during lift.
- Attach slings of appropriate capacity around the cable drum flanges. Connect to crane hook via D-shackle.
- Lift the cable drum slowly and steadily — no sudden movements. A banksman must guide the crane operator throughout.
- Lower the drum onto the trailer bed with care — ensure the drum sits stable and does not roll.
- Secure each cable drum on the trailer tightly using chain and/or rope before moving.
- Verify all securing is firm before the trailer departs the store.
Transportation to Site
- Trailers will transport cable drums from the centralised store to the site of cable laying.
- Route must be planned in advance — check for low bridges, restricted roads and overhead cables on route.
- Speed must be kept low and constant. No sharp braking or acceleration with cable drums loaded.
- Drum securing must be checked at the start of journey and re-verified at site before unloading.
Unloading Procedure — Site of Cable Laying
- Position the trailer and crane safely near the designated unloading area at the cable laying site.
- Barricade the unloading area completely before any lifting begins. No unauthorised personnel within the barricaded zone.
- Block all crane and trailer wheels with wooden blocks.
- The same T&P used for loading shall be used for unloading — no substitution without approval.
- Lift each cable drum slowly from the trailer bed using the crane.
- Lower the drum to the designated drum storage location at site. Fix drums in position using wooden blocks to prevent rolling.
- Experienced Site Engineers and Safety Engineers must continuously monitor all operations.
Safety Requirements
All T&P third-party test certificates must be available at site before work starts
Barricading mandatory at unloading area — no unauthorised access during operations
Wheel chocking required for all crane and trailer wheels at all times during lifting
Experienced Site Engineer and Safety Engineer must supervise all loading/unloading
Slings must be rated for cable drum weight — check and confirm before each lift
Inspect cable drum end caps and seals after unloading — replace any that are damaged