Preventing Site Accidents through Proper Crane Operations

14 January 2021

Cranes have been ideal for projects that need to lift and move a heavy load from one place to another. And with these pieces of equipment, they can easily fulfil load movement activities in just a short time.

However, they have to be used properly to avoid causing damages to the surrounding as well as injuries to the people around them. Proper use of cranes is also necessary to ensure that a project can finish within the set schedule without costing additional expenses.

For proper operations of cranes, several tips can be followed to effectively prevent site accidents and other costly damages.

Choose the Right Crane

While cranes are mostly comprised of the hook, hoist, controls, and other primary parts, they still have differences when it comes to their general settings and specifications. Some cranes can easily move from one area to another, while others have to be erected in a single place for them to be effective. Choosing the right crane allows a project to be done without worrying about its stability, functionality, and others. In choosing the crane for the job, factors such as terrain and workload must be considered carefully.

Hire Qualified Operators

The movement and functionality of cranes will all depend on their operators. If a project manager hires an operator that has no experience in handling a specific type of crane, then they might end up risking the lives of the people around it. Operators who are certainly certified and qualified to use and operate different types of cranes can easily maintain safe operations at all times. Additionally, these qualified operators are assured to adhere to all regulations set by the governing bodies.

Conduct Daily Inspections

One of the most crucial parts of crane operations is their daily inspections. Inspections are important for cranes since there might be some crane components that have already problems and issues. Additionally, they can ensure that the conditions of the whole crane system and engine are all optimised to impending site operations. Some parts of the crane that must be checked before use include air reservoir, battery, pressure gauge, turn signals, horn, and suspension.

Clear Unsafe Obstacles

Cranes can go as high as multiple storeys, which make them dangerous against crowded power lines and other similar obstacles. Whenever you travel the cranes to different locations, all obstacles that are around the site must be cleared if possible. If not, then the crane operator or other personnel should avoid the obstacles at all costs. Likewise, a signal person must be designated with a crane operator during travel so that the former can easily alert the operator of potential hazards and obstacles along the way.

Stabilise before Rigging

Rigging is the process of preparing the crane before executing the lift plan. This process can only be successful if the crane is stabilised properly. Stabilising the crane can only be done properly if the guidelines set by the crane manufacturer when it comes to rigging are followed correctly. The use of outrigger pads or crane pads can also help in stabilising the crane. Proper stabilisation of cranes can help prevent accidents due to tip-overs.

Following these tips can ensure that the crane operations will be conducted properly. If you have more questions about proper crane operations, just contact us at Sharp Welding and Crane Hire.