Crane Operation - Be Safe, Not Sorry

Accidents due to some ones irresponsibility keepoperator, you have every right to refuse to lift
happening round the clock. And you will not bethe load if the safety and weight of the load is in
surprised to know that cranes at constructionperspective.
sites, oil rigs and mines are the cause of fatal3.Make sure that the load is rigged and fastened
injuries and even deaths. Not ensuring the use ofcorrectly prior to lifting it. You can consult your
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is a majorsite supervisor for any clarifications. Make use of
cause for these accidents. It could also be thethe load indicating device, but you still have the
case that the crane operator is not well trained orlast say. So be sure before you take any action.
skilled enough to take preventive safety4.This goes without saying, but a reminder always
measures and is unaware of emergencyhelps. Make sure that your path is cleared of all
procedures.people, stray animals and obstacles.
All heavy equipment training institutions offer5.Always maintain a safe distance from power
specialized training with regard to safetylines, irrespective of whether they are energized
operations and emergency procedures. During theor not. Coming in contact with power lines is a
course you will be taught various safetymajor reason for deaths on construction sites.
precautions that will help you perform your duties6.Prepare yourself for an emergency. You should
as a crane operator to the best of your abilityalways use a signaling device which is audible and
and in a responsible manner. The following pointscan be used to warn people around you.
will give you a gist of what you should keep inProcedures for retrieving an operator during an
mind while operating a crane.emergency must be carried out. Fire extinguishers
1.Inspect your crane extensively and thoroughlyon board are a must.
before you make any moves. Check for loose orThis is just the tip of the iceberg as far as safety
missing parts, dysfunctional switches or controlwhile operating a crane is concerned. You should
buttons. See that latches and springs are securebe in possession of full knowledge of safety
and work the way they are supposed to. Checkmeasures and procedures before you venture
the load chain, sheaves and sheave guard for anyout as a crane operator. Your training institution
irregularities. Do not ignore anything different fromhas a major role to play here. This of course is
the usual and get the problem rectifiednot possible without your individual sense of
immediately.understanding and ability to grasp a situation in its
2.Be very clear about the load capacity and seetotality.
that it never exceeds the limit. As a crane