Tips for safe crane operation on work sites
Cranes have made life a lot easier, not only for construction but for renovating your home or garden. However, it is essential that we use the cranes with caution and think safety first. Cranes help lift heavy loads and can be found in the automotive and building/construction industry. Safety considerations need to be understood to ensure the safe operation of the cranes at all times. Not only is it your safety you need to look out for but also that of people around you and other work colleagues. Enquire about crane safety at your local crane hire company.
Here are a few tips to follow to ensure the safe use of cranes within the workplace:
Have a license:
When operating a crane, such as the as2550.1, you will need to have a license. You can obtain a license from the National Commission Certification of Crane Operators. Crane operators will need to pass a few tests in order to obtain the certification. You will do both theory and physical work to prove your understanding of cranes and safety awareness.
Be mindful of the surroundings:
Be aware of what is around you. Observe all the hazards both below like holes and power cords as well as above for nearby buildings and power lines.
Creating a checklist:
Read the manual and make yourself familiar with the safety procedures of the crane as well and the steps to operation.
Have a checklist that includes
- Check over the hoist
- Inspect the loading chains
- Place and positions of the hooks
Stick to the Safe working load:
It can be easy to make the mistake of lifting more than what is recommended in the crane. The safe working load is exactly what it says the safe load the crane can lift. This means you cannot lift anything above that weight safely. Ensure you are using the right sized crane and equipment for the job you are carrying out.
Check for slack chains:
Whether the crane operator is experienced or someone new to the job everyone should check over the chains and wires and ensure they are fir and taut before any load is lifted.
Crane operators need to ensure they never run the hook when there is a visible slack chain, if the chain has any bends or sharp edges or if any damaged has been noticed. This needs to be reported immediately and ensure you place an out of order sign on the machine so no one else uses it until it has been repaired.
Fluid levels:
Before you start the crane you need to make sure it has enough oil, gas and any other fluids the crane may need.
While you can follow out all the instructions perfectly and put all safety precautions into place accidents can still happen. While you need to know everything about preventing accidents, you also need to have the knowledge of what to do if an accident may occur.
To make sure all problems and risks are kept to a minimum ensure safety precautions are followed, equipment is checked over before using, check surroundings for any hazards and ensure all personnel are trained to use the equipment and handle any negative situations that may arise.