Each year on the job, there are anywhere between 50 and 100 fatal crane accidents in the US alone and the vast majority of them are due to unsafe conditions. This is why crane safety is such a top priority on any work site. Proper crane safety has been thoroughly addressed by OSHA, or Occupational Safety and Health Administration. In addition to that, manufacturers of cranes have taken steps to limit accidents. By taking recommendations from both entities, manufacturers and OSHA, you can take the necessary steps to ensure proper crane safety.
OSHA Guidelines That You Should Follow
When it comes to preventing accidental death and keeping your crew safe, OSHA has handed down certain guidelines that you should follow. For instance, when it comes to the operation of a crane, the only people who should be doing it are those who are fully trained and certified. Another guideline that you should follow concerns proper crane inspection. A professional crane inspection is something that will ensure the crane is operating as normal and if not, will give you information about what repairs may be needed. You will also need to be aware of general worksite safety as well as things like overhead clearance. By taking just a few minutes to look above, for instance, you can be sure that your crane will not get tangled in trees or power lines, both of which could be disastrous.
Other Worksite Safety Guidelines Should Also be Followed
In addition to the above, it is very important that you keep other guidelines in mind too. For instance, making sure that all of your crew is wearing PPE can be the difference between a safe, accident free day and a serious accident, or even death. You also want to remember that all other equipment that you may be using is also in good working order and has been inspected prior to use. By making sure that your crane is secure, the cargo is secure and you aren’t lifting anything over people or other objects will further promote a safe work environment.
These are just a few of the many things that you should be doing when you are using a crane on the worksite. By keeping this and other things in mind, you will be able to ensure the safety of your crew.
