Safety should always be the top concern of anyone operating a crane. Cranes are incredibly useful for all kinds of jobs, but they can also cause immense damage if not used properly. For this reason, the operators at Eagle West Crane & Rigging adhere to a strict commitment to safety that allows us to prioritize the safety of the personnel and property at every job we undertake. As an operator gains experience, they can always be on the lookout for crane safety tips to keep in mind during any hoisting operation.
Safety Tips to Remember When Operating a Crane
Mobile cranes are meant to be used in a certain way to ensure the safety of everyone on the jobsite. If you have a job that requires the use of a crane, pointers to keep in mind throughout the operation include:
Work Within the Crane’s Load Capacity
Every crane is only meant to hoist a certain amount of weight. By overloading the crane with too heavy of a load, you run the risk of breaking it or tipping the crane and creating a major hazard. Make sure to be aware of the crane’s maximum loads and stay well within these parameters.
Do Not Overextend the Crane
The weight of a load is not the only component of a hoisting operation that needs to be planned and monitored closely. The amount of weight being hoisted needs to be compared with the reach radius of the job being done. If a heavier load is being hoisted, a smaller radius needs to be used. Overextending the crane’s reach can cause the crane to tip and cause damage to the crane, the load, and the people and property in the crane’s vicinity.
Inspect the Crane and Load
Before any hoisting operation, the crane and the load being moved should be carefully inspected to ensure the safety of everyone onsite. Crane operators should have a full checklist of inspections that need to take place before beginning the job.
Be Aware of Surrounding Power Lines
Setting up and using a mobile crane too close to power lines is a major safety issue. It is possible for an operator to not be able to see power lines properly or to react too slowly when performing a job next to power lines, so the location of the crane is vitally important.
If you are interested in finding out other crane safety tips to keep in mind when performing a hoisting operation, or if you would like to find out about any of our hoisting and crane rental services, please contact Eagle West Crane & Rigging at the location nearest you or fill out a contact form on our website and we will get back to you as soon as we can.