A Crane is an important piece of equipment in a construction site. Lifting and moving heavy objects to keep the industrial or construction project productive. However, we cannot ignore the fatal dangers they pose if not professionally handled. Crane’s accidents can be costly in terms of injuries to workers, equipment losses, property damage, lawsuits from the victims’ families or property owners. The following crane safety tips ensure a disastrous-free workplace.
- Choose the proper crane.
A safe crane operation begins with choosing the proper crane for a project operation. Cranes are available in many varieties to settle on, mobile or fixed type of cranes, you will get the right crane for your construction project. Corporate website van Adrighem is the leader in the rental, sale, and purchase of the latest and used cranes. Visit the location for the proper crane to satisfy your project objectives for every unique project site.
- Qualified operator
Heavy machinery requires trained and authorized personnel for setting up, rigging, operation, and signaling. Confirming the employees’ expertise in operating the crane is the first step to ensuring safe operations. Riggers should even be well trained in fixing the equipment for specific loads.
- Inspect the crane
A crane operator should inspect the crane for any hydraulic, structural, electrical, or mechanical issues daily before use to make sure crane safety, reliability, and compliance with the specified standards. A crane operator should also check ground conditions and any overhead hazards when operating near power lines or buildings. Additionally, the lift load should be inspected, to make sure they are properly secured and does not exceed equipment limits. If something does not feel right during a lift, the operator should stop and inspect the situation for a safer lift operation. The daily safety checklist ensures safe crane operation and project productivity.
- Safe worksite
A safe workplace is everyone’s responsibility. A crane operator should confirm that the crane path is clear of all obstacles, always keeping a secure distance, if there are hazards that cannot be moved. Employees on the ground should be reminded to always stay a secure perimeter around the crane. As a crane operator be observant of everything that is happening on the location around you, from ground personnel to other work happening on the worksite.
- Plan the lift
Every time a load is lifted is a different circumstance. Review the load, equipment limitation, and factors like the wind direction and speed. The riggers, operator, and all staff involved in the lift should be part of the planning process and be in communication when making a lift whether using a radio, airhorns, or hand signals. There are a standard set of hand signals and communication guideline to facilitate safe operation of the crane. Make sure that everyone on the worksite knows the meaning of every signal.
Do not use a crane for storage purposes by attaching or suspending equipment like a compressor to the crane for safekeeping. These would cause danger to a person walking beneath the crane.
Conclusion
Following the tips above ensures safe and productive crane operations.
