Cranes are heavy-duty machines used to lift, move, and place large, bulky objects such as containers, beams, materials, steel pipes, and other materials in construction or manufacturing processes. Cranes come in various shapes and sizes depending on the job requirements. Different types of cranes include mobile, overhead, and tower cranes. Cranes are essential for hoisting and moving large objects with ease and accuracy.
There are several types of cranes which have the same fundamental characteristics but differ in the way they are supported (mounted): overhead cranes (bridge), mobile cranes, or fixed cranes (tower). Each type may have specific safety operating requirements, but there are safety inspection elements that are similar.
The use of cranes in workplaces has become increasingly prevalent across many industries in recent years. Cranes are essential for the efficient unloading, hoisting, and setting of materials in different worksites. However, due to the enormous size of the machines and the increased workload that they can produce, it is essential that crane operators and users take necessary safety precautions before and after using the crane.
In this regard, hoisting and rigging practices for cranes are essential for any workplace. Proper hoisting and rigging practices help to ensure the safety of the operators and those in the vicinity of the crane. They also allow for the smooth and efficient use of the equipment. Good hoisting and rigging practices ensure minimum safety risks, maximize the crane’s reach and capacity, and help to extend the operational life of the equipment. These practices also involve inspecting the equipment before use, paying attention to weight limits, and knowing how much line and angle are needed for the job. In addition, it is important to be aware of all the relevant regulations to ensure that the lifting process is done correctly and without any hindrances. Proper hoisting and rigging practices are essential to ensure the safe, efficient, and economical use of any crane.
Against this background, an effective safety measure for the use of cranes in a workplace is to develop a comprehensive Pre-Start/End-of-Day checklist. This checklist is designed to ensure that the crane operators and users are aware of the necessary safety measures before and after using the crane.
A Pre-Start/End-of-Day checklist for the use of cranes in a workplace should include checks of the following safety measures:
- Inspection and maintenance of machinery: Regularly inspect the crane and its parts and make sure the lifting, carrying, and moving of the crane is in compliance with workplace procedures and regulations. Be aware of any defects and damage to the crane and its parts and replace them before use.
- Verification of loads: Before the operation, ensure that the loads are properly positioned and securely fastened. All the components of the load should also be checked for their correct weights and dimensions.
- Verification of personnel: Make sure that all personnel, including crane operators and users, on the worksite, are wearing the right safety gear and are aware of safety protocols.
- Verification of ground condition: Make sure that the ground condition is suitable for the use of the crane. The surface should be cleared of obstructions, the ground should be balanced, and the surface should allow the crane to obtain the necessary balancing and rotating capacity required.
- Verification of security features: Make sure all safety features are in place and that they are adequately shown to the crane operators, users, and those in the worksite vicinity.
- Temperature and weather conditions: Be aware of any hazardous weather and temperature conditions that may impair the use of the crane.
- Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) and other tracking features: Verify and make sure all RFID and tracking features are functioning properly and adequately showing the locations of personnel and items on the worksite.
- When not in use, cranes should be stored in a clean, dry, well-ventilated area away from potential hazards such as heat, steam, and chemicals. The crane should be inspected before and after use to ensure that all components are functioning properly and free of damage. The crane should be moved and stored at least once a year to prevent rust from setting in. All moving and mechanical parts should be lubricated regularly, and the crane should be securely blocked or anchored to prevent it from tipping.
All the mentioned steps should be taken as a precautionary measure to ensure the safe use and operation of cranes in the workplace. By implementing a Pre-Start/End-of-Day checklist, the risks of crane misuse or accidents can be greatly reduced.
References
- The official website of the Canadian Center for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS): https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/safety_haz/materials_handling/crane_in.html, accessed on June 06, 2023.
- Hoisting and Rigging Safety Manuel, the official website of the Infrastructure Health & Safety Association (IHSA):
https://www.ihsa.ca/pdfs/products/id/m035.pdf, accessed on June 06, 2023.