"The reliability of vehicles and equipment is a very important issue for us as a fire service,” explains Dominik Franz, fire officer at the Munich Fire Service. “The previous cranes served us reliably for many years, but as they age, the risk of technical faults and the cost of repairs increase significantly.”
Two identical cranes for maximum operational readiness
The fire service requirements plan for the City of Munich stipulates two fire service cranes with a maximum response time of 30 minutes. Accordingly, the new LTM 1070-4.2 cranes are strategically stationed in the north-west and south-east of the city. If necessary, both cranes can also be deployed together for a tandem lift.
“With two identical cranes, we gain not only redundancy but also tactical flexibility,” says Dominik Franz. “Particularly in complex operational situations, it is a major advantage to have identical technology with identical performance data at our disposal.”
Tailor-made solution following a Europe-wide tender
The Liebherr LTM 1070 4.2 emerged as the winner in a Europe-wide tender. In addition to the complete package comprising the vehicle and fire service-specific equipment, the technical characteristics of the 4-axle mobile crane were a decisive factor.
Key requirements of the Munich Fire Service included the highest possible lifting capacity with ballast carried on the crane, high manoeuvrability and variable outriggers – crucial criteria for operations in dense urban areas. Added to this are a recovery winch at the rear and an intercom system for safe communication between the crane operator and the rigger, as well as the option to use snow chains.
“The LTM 1070-4.2 offers exactly the combination of performance, compactness and flexibility that we need for our operations,” emphasises Dominik Franz. “What’s more, this crane has already proven itself with other fire services.”
Fire service cranes are deployed in Munich whenever other technical rescue resources reach their limits. Typical scenarios include serious road accidents involving lorries, buses or trams, as well as rail accidents. These also include damaged or overturned construction cranes, storm-related operations, and the rescue of people from heights and depths. The Munich Fire Brigade’s cranes can also be requested by neighbouring districts if required.
Comprehensive training and close cooperation
Before the two LTM 1070-4.2 cranes were put into service, the Munich Fire Brigade underwent an extensive training program. This included a multi-day instructor training course at Liebherr in Ehingen, driver training at the Münsingen military training area, and subsequent training for all 50 crane operators in Munich. The program was rounded off by an external seminar on the recovery of vehicles and machinery.
“The collaboration with Liebherr was very professional throughout the entire procurement process,” sums up Dominik Franz. “We have received two high-quality cranes that provide us with optimal support in our daily work. There were always suitable solutions for our requirements – and despite minor timing differences during the construction phase, we received two identical vehicles.”
