In industries and construction sites, cranes do a lot of lifting. They are essential equipment to have in a production facility or a construction site. Users rely on cranes to carry out vital tasks ranging from the transfer of heavy goods to support of construction material during installation. However, despite the advantages that cranes have, they are dangerous equipment that needs safe handling. It is, therefore, essential to apply safety measures in a facility where cranes are used to avoid accidents that can otherwise be fatal. The following are some safety measures that need observing where cranes are concerned.
1. A crane operator has to be qualified and have the right certification and training hours on the specific equipment.
A complex machine such as a crane needs a qualified person to operate it to ensure safe handling. Supervisors and employers should, therefore, ensure that the persons they employ as crane operators possess the right qualification. Apart from having the required skills to operate the crane, the operator should have the skills to carry out minor maintenance and repairs on the crane. They should also identify and know when the crane is malfunctioning before commencing with operations.
2. Clear the site before commencing operations and lifting any loads
Anyone around the job site should clear from the area where the crane is in operation for safety purposes. It is recommended to put caution signs around the inaccessible areas. Although cases of cables snapping are not common, they are still a possibility.
3. Inspect the load and the crane before it starts operations
The crane operator should examine the crane to establish if there are cracks on booms and cables. If any of the parts are worn out, it should immediately undergo repairs. The loads should also be examined to ensure that they are secure and that the weight is within the range that the crane can handle. Going beyond the operational limit is a recipe for disaster.
4. Assess safety checklists
As a result of the complexity of a crane, one can easily forget to go through some procedures. For this reason, all employees should have checklists that detail all safety procedures. The requirement should not be a preserve of the crane operator but for all people at the construction site. All employees need to review the checklist before they commence each shift; the list should also be placed in strategic places on the operation site. The safety precautions help avoid accidents and shield the company from lawsuits in case an accident occurs.
5. Do not be in a hurry when operating a crane
When one is in a hurry they tend to be careless, and this gives room for accidents. Crane operators require patience to ensure loads are moved safely. Haste may prove disastrous for the operator, the loads and nearby workers. Do not test the limits of your crane all in a bid to save time. Be patient and you will save lives instead.
Cranes are categorised as heavy vehicles; hence all operators need heavy vehicle training to run a crane. Look for a suitable heavy vehicle training school that will equip you with the necessary skills to operate a crane. If you are hiring operators only trust those from reputable schools guaranteed to have received the best training. Do not leave your crane in the hands of an amateur. That’s a recipe for disaster.
