Dropped loads are generally one of the most common safety risks associated with overhead cranes. The main causes of dropped loads include insufficient operator training, inappropriate lifting device choice, wrong rigging method, overloading the lifting device and side pulling. Cranes are necessary, and so are its safety measures. For more information, contact NadeauSDM temporary structure design. 

Staying risk-free in the active lifting of cranes

Material transportation via crane and boom truck, often referred to as lifting, is an essential job that involves the following risks:

• Load failing – There is a possibility that a load might fall while being carried, which may result in property damage or personal injury.
• Hitting and crushing – Loads may swing and strike existing infrastructure, leading to damage or property loss.
• Crane toppling – A weakly constructed or overweight crane has the potential for falling over and causing deaths or significant injuries.
• Environmental factors – Other factors that could give rise to crane accidents include high winds, poor interaction, and low visibility.
• Damage to underground utilities – When carrying large weights, there is a possibility that other infrastructure, especially utilities, can be harmed. This can be dangerous and costly.

Crane safety precautions

• Examine and level ground conditions.

To ensure safety and prevent errors, the land or soil conditions should be examined and leveled before deploying a crane or boom truck.

• Use the appropriate spread mate size.

To ensure that the weight is appropriately distributed and the crane stays stable, a spread mate dimensions of 1:3 should be utilized.

• Extend outriggers fully

Outriggers should be extended entirely and positioned at least one meter away from trenches and manholes to improve stability and avoid accidents.

• Avoid overloading

Lift only as much as the safe working load (SWL) to avoid accidents and malfunctions in the crane or boom truck.

• Adhere to the regulations.

When operating a crane or boom truck, one has to abide by the rules set forth by the rightful authorities, such as the KNPC, and one cannot ever utilize a crane for more than 75% of its capacity.

• Avoid adverse weather conditions.

Operating cranes and boom trucks in high winds or during rain increases the danger of injuries and collisions.

• Barricade the radius of swinging.

The swinging range of the crane must be restricted, and access should be limited to experienced and qualified riggers only.

Wrapping up

Crane tip-overs, struck-by incidents, caught-in-between accidents, and electrocution are possible risks linked to crane operations. By following safety regulations and rules, ensuring that the crane is in excellent working condition, giving operators and employees the proper instructions, conducting routine maintenance and inspections, and ensuring the work surroundings are free of any hazards, these risks may be minimized.