John F. Clark 
If you deal with lifting heavy equipment or work on construction projects, you know how important a crane is. Cranes are the most useful and crucial equipment required in almost every production facility and logistics site. In fact, different types of cranes have become an integral part of the construction, design, automotive, logistics, and power industries.
There is no doubt that cranes have made things easy today by lifting and transporting heavy and bulky things. However, if not operated properly, cranes also pose a danger. Careless or inefficient handling of the crane is responsible for workplace hazards and causing severe damage to people and property. According to reports, inappropriate crane operation is responsible for around 70% of crane accidents in the United States. This clearly shows that it’s vital to know how to properly operate a crane to prevent accidents and ensure smooth operation.
It is largely the responsibility of the crane operator to know the safety rules for preventing accidents that can damage not only the property but also the coworkers. Safe crane operation involves keeping up with the regulations and safety guidelines and fully understanding how cranes work, and following basic steps to safeguard workers. So, to prevent workplace crane accidents, here are some crane safety tips and preventative measures to avoid these hazards from happening.
Qualified Crane Operator
The success of crane operation largely depends on the capacity and experience of the crane operator. It is imperative to hire a properly trained and qualified crane operator who has the knowledge and experience to handle any inconvenience. Operating a complex machine like a crane requires specialized knowledge and lifting training. The professional who is handling the machine should have complete knowledge of the equipment and a proper understanding of safety procedures. The operator must also have a crane operator license which is proof of their expertise.
Equipment, Load, and Workplace Inspection
Before the operator begins the lifting work, it’s crucial to take a close look at the equipment. This includes inspecting the cables and booms for any cracks, signs of equipment damage, etc. A prior inspection will help in timely service or repair of a broken or damaged crane part, which can greatly help avoid mishaps. Another important step is examining the loads and making sure that it is correctly secured. In addition to this, the operator should also check if the workplace is free of any obstacles for safe crane operation. The area of operation should be free of unevenness, debris, obstacles, holes, and electrical lines that could cause an accident.
Don’t Overload the Crane.
Overloading the crane can be extremely dangerous as it may cause serious accidents and injuries. To avoid this risk, it’s advised to read the capacity tables that come from the manufacturer. Different cranes have different load capacities, and a load table specifies the detailed capacity, its characteristics, and the loading distance and angle details. This information is helpful to ensure that a crane is properly operated and not overloaded.
Follow Basic Safety Rules
Crane operators and other workers should review the safety protocols so that everyone on the worksite is aware of the risks. Make sure there is a sufficient amount of oil, water, and other fluids to avoid issues from mechanical problems. Also, to prevent electrical hazards, never let the hoist line or boom touch the energized power lines when moving materials. Also, while operating the crane, cell phones should not be used.
