Crane Operation Safety: How to Safeguard Your Worksite

Inspect the Crane Before Use

Every crane comes with instructions on how to operate it and the necessary conditions to clear the inspection checklist. You should read and understand the instruction manual even if you or your operator have any prior information about cranes.

Exercise worksite safety protocols while you use the crane. All personnel should wear personal protective equipment while the operator uses the crane. Also, the operator should not use a mobile phone, as it can distract them from the current conditions of their worksite.

Ensure Sufficient Clearance

All the workers who are near the site of the crane should work in tandem with the operators to avoid any mishaps. When the operator lifts the load, they should ensure that no one is directly underneath it. Thus, they should confirm with spotters or traffic controllers as they lift and then bring down the crane's boom.

An additional consideration is overhead obstacles that might create unexpected risks for operators and site workers. For example, a crane operating near electrical lines might create a hazard if the operator is unaware of the crane's position. If you can, disable the electricity in that area while operating the crane. If you cannot, work with spotters to ensure the crane remains safe from the lines.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) created a system to test and certify crane operators. Thus, the operator you want to work with should receive full certification from this organization to ensure they understand the rules and guidelines to safely operate cranes.

For example, the operator should know how to position the boom while they lift loads horizontally. They should also understand how the boom and counterweight swing as well as be able to compensate for unexpected swings outside the arc. Finally, they should be patient with the crane to avoid wild swings that could destabilize it.

Understand how your team will use the crane for the day. Figure out the load capacity and plan how the operator will move the load to the designated position. Also, assess the operating conditions of the environment before you hire and deploy a crane. For example, rough conditions will require rough-terrain cranes. These factors will determine how you prepare the crane for its workload.

Contact us at 3-B Welding LLC to rent a mobile crane for your worksite today. We offer crane rental services for groups within or near the Zanesville area.