Dashpivot Article – Crane Safety in Construction

Crane Safety in Construction

Importance of Crane Safety in Construction

Handling large, heavy loads is fundamental to the construction industry today. Safety hazards on construction sites can shift rapidly, placing crane operators and those working nearby them in potential danger. On average, crane-related incidents result in the death of 42 workers each year.

While cranes are crucial for transporting large beams and building tall structures, unsafe crane operations can lead to both injuries and property damage. Moreover, accidents can cause significant delays and extra costs for construction projects. By adhering to crane safety measures, operators can prevent these incidents and ensure a safer work environment for everyone.

What are the different types of cranes used in construction?

Different types of cranes have been designed to fulfil the specific requirements of diverse construction projects. The machinery of a crane is tailored to the particular kind of lifting task it needs to perform.

The many crane types primarily fall into two categories: static and mobile. Static cranes include tower cranes, hammerhead cranes, luffing jib cranes, self-erecting cranes, and level luffing cranes. Mobile cranes include crawler cranes, rough-terrain cranes, all-terrain cranes, vehicle mounted cranes, and carry deck cranes.

Crane safety is essential yet often overlooked in construction. This article covers all you need to know about crane safety in construction, from the basics of crane safety practices and common hazards to the impact of technology in making construction sites safer.

The Basics of Crane Safety in Construction Sites

Cranes are big, complex machines that are often used in construction sites where there's a high chance of accidents. Understanding crane safety basics is crucial before you start operating one.

The main reason for enforcing crane safety rules is to prevent accidents and injuries. However, safe practices also make projects run smoother, boost team morale, and stress the importance of having a solid safety plan.

The construction industry must follow strict regulatory and legal requirements for crane use and maintenance. Failure to comply results in severe penalties and project interruptions, highlighting the importance of compliance to safety standards.

Regular Crane Inspections

Keeping cranes safe in construction includes doing regular inspections and maintenance. These checks help identify and address mechanical problems early, reducing the chance of accidents.

Crane operators and other workers should do daily checks to look for any obvious signs of wear or damage, make sure safety features are working, and ensure the crane runs smoothly.

Inspection points should include:

Functionality of control mechanisms and wear of mechanisms and contamination
Operation of safety devices like boom-angle and load moment indicators
Inspection of air, hydraulic, and pressurised lines for leaks
Condition of hooks and latches for signs of deterioration or damage
Hydraulic system fluid levels and tire condition and pressure
Ground conditions for stability and support
Crane level and rigging qualifications
Signal person qualifications
Proximity to power lines and conducting hazard assessments

It's also important to follow inspection schedules recommended by crane manufacturers and safety authorities, considering the crane's age, how often it's used, and where it's used.

How often should you inspect your crane?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) mandates that cranes undergo inspections at least annually. There are two key of inspections you need to know about: frequent and periodic. Carry out frequent inspections daily, weekly, or monthly, based on use and exposure to wear and tear. Periodic inspections should happen every other month, quarterly, or once a year, ensuring a thorough check-up of the crane's condition.

Crane Maintenance

Maintenance is integral to crane safety, requiring timely repair or replacement of damaged parts, regular lubrication, adjustment of mechanisms for smooth operation, and rust or corrosion management, performed by qualified professionals familiar with crane mechanics.

Crane Operator Training

Crane operators need proper training and certification from recognised bodies like the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO). They also need a valid license to operate a crane.

Certifications can be obtained from:

Accredited testing organisations
Employer qualification programs
State or local government licenses

Riggers and signal people also have to meet specific training and qualification standards.

Operators are in charge of the crane operations and can stop work if they think it's not safe. This means having trained and certified people operating cranes is key to preventing accidents and promoting a safe work culture.

Safety Guidelines and Standards for Crane Safety

Operators must follow safety rules set by OSHA. These cover crane inspections, maintenance, and proper operation.

While different industries might have their own safety practices, there are many OSHA and state standards that must be followed to keep operators and workers safe.

Safe crane operation also involves using the right safety gear, like gloves, hard hats, and safety glasses. Operators should always be aware of their surroundings and avoid hazards like power lines and other equipment.

Common Crane Safety Hazards

Operating cranes is complex and demands a high level of expertise. Yet, even the most skilled operators face significant risks.

Falling Debris

A common risk in crane operations is falling objects. Despite tight security measures, there's always a chance that materials could drop, posing a threat to people and property below. Various factors, like poor visibility, mechanical issues, operator errors, or slipping, can lead to objects falling from cranes. Since cranes lift heavy loads, the potential danger from falling objects is a major hazard.

Fall Hazards

The danger of falling from heights is another serious hazard in crane operations. Crane operators often work at significant heights and must use safety gear like harnesses and keep their area free from obstacles to minimise fall risks.

Collisions

Crane operations can lead to collisions, especially as cranes move near other objects. Being mindful of surroundings and using signals can help prevent these accidents.

Electrical Hazards

Electrical dangers, especially from power lines, are prevalent with cranes. Contact can lead to severe accidents, affecting not just the operator but also others nearby. Planning and safety measures are essential to avoid these risks.

Overloading

A common cause of crane failures is overloading. Pushing a crane beyond its capacity can lead to structural damage or complete failure, often resulting from human error. Understanding a crane's limits is crucial for safe operation.

Technology and Crane Safety in Construction

Technology now plays a key role in improving crane safety within the construction industry. Advancements in crane technology include a range of monitoring systems and automation features that lessen the likelihood of accidents due to human error.

One example is that some cranes are now equipped with sensors are capable of identifying nearby obstacles and automatically modifying their course to prevent any collisions. These technologies also enhance the monitoring capabilities for the weight and positioning of loads, aiding in the prevention of overloading and ensuring loads are evenly distributed, thus decreasing the risk of accidents.

Moreover, the development of remote-operated cranes enhances safety by enabling operators to control the crane from a safe distance, avoiding direct exposure to potential dangers.

Additionally, technological developments have included systems that improve load handling and reduce load sway, which not only enhances safety but also operational efficiency and productivity. By stabilising loads, operators can more precisely and quickly position them.

This focus on technology allows operators to be more vigilant of their surroundings, aiding in the prevention of collisions and other potential hazards. However, while modern technology significantly lowers the risk of accidents, ongoing safety training remains essential.

Best Practices for Crane Safety Training

Implement a Comprehensive Safety Program

Start with detailed training for everyone involved in crane, rigging, and machinery operations. This training must include how to operate equipment safely, recognise hazards, respond to emergencies, and follow industry best practices.

Develop Clear Safety Policies

Create, share, and establish easy-to-understand safety policies for all team members. These should express the organisation's dedication to safety and detail the procedures for various operations. Encourage everyone to familiarise themselves with and consistently follow these policies.

Train your team on safe crane operation and the specific risks present in their roles, covering topics like:

Power line safety and crush and pinch point hazards
Crane approach and path distances
Authority to stop work
Lockout/tagout for repairs
General crane, derrick, and hoist safety
Rigging and signal procedures

Prioritise Clear Communication

Clear communication is key to safety, including straightforward instructions, proper signals, and standardised methods for operating equipment. A policy of openness about reporting safety issues encourages a transparent and safer working environment.

Commit to Continuous Safety Improvement

Building a culture of safety means constantly seeking and applying feedback. Motivate your team to share experiences of near misses or incidents and suggest safety improvements. Regular safety briefings, including toolbox talks, and training reinforce safety's importance.

Toolbox talks are a great way to educate employees and contractors about safety. These brief, informal meetings between management and workers focus on reinforcing safety practices, introducing new protocols, discussing safety mishaps, and ensuring everyone is informed about safe work procedures.

A crucial part of toolbox talks is allowing workers to express concerns and ask questions. It's vital that employees feel they can actively participate in safety discussions related to their work.

Below is an example of a crane safety toolbox talk form:

Preview the full example

Toolbox Talk Crane Safety Template Side 1

Toolbox Talk Crane Safety Template Side 2

Improve your crane safety on site with this free and customisable crane safety toolbox talk template

Get started now

Transform Your Safety Meetings With Customisable Toolbox Talk Forms

Toolbox talks offer a straightforward and effective avenue for sharing crane safety guidelines with your team.

As crane operation becomes an integral part of construction projects, it's important to regularly review important crane safety points. Take a look at this easy-to-use toolbox talk crane safety template for your next safety meeting.

This template provides all you need for a focused safety discussion. You can note down key insights about crane safety challenges to ensure your team is well-prepared for operating under various conditions. It also lets you document any questions from your crew, delegate tasks to address safety issues, record attendance, and more.

Daily Lift Plan for Cranes template

Get your daily lifts planned approved, and keep everyone and everything safe.

Safe Work Method Statement for Cranes template

Cranes are powerful and incredibly valuable pieces of kit on construction and industrial sites. Make sure you take care of them and your people properly.