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Crane
Safety
Safety information
on mobile cranes from overloading cranes to over head power cables
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MOBILE
CRANE SAFETY
Mobile cranes are responsible for the most accidents, injuries, and fatalities
of all of the crane types. Be aware of the hazards if you operate or work around
mobile cranes. Get proper training on crane operation and load preparation and
securing. Wear hard hats, safety boots, and high visibility clothing when operating
or working around cranes
Falling loads
Falling loads from mobile cranes pose a severe hazard to operators and nearby
workers. Never exceed the load capacity of the mobile crane. If you are unsure
about the load size and weight, calculate the weight to ensure that it meets your
crane's capacity. Load indicating devices, called load moment devices, can prevent
an
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accidental
overload. Properly secure the loads that you will be lifting. Inspect all slings,
chains, and hooks that will be used to lift and secure the load.
Sudden Stops or Accelerations
Rotate, raise, and lower the crane boom slowly. Avoid sudden stops or accelerations
that could jar the load. When rotating the load, you can use taglines or guidelines
to control the arc and swing. Try to avoid lifting loads over workers or over
the cab of the crane. If this type of lifting is necessary, use safety hooks or
other approved devices. If two cranes are required to lift a load, a qualified
person should be in charge of planning and directing the lift.
Electrical Lines
Cranes can accidentally come in contact with electrical lines. Before you start
work, survey the site for potential electric hazards. Consider all lines energized
unless they are certified by the owner/operator and visibly grounded at the site.
Always maintain the required clearances from electrical lines and sources as required
by the Electrical Safety Orders.
Instability
Tip-overs and instability are another mobile crane hazard. Soft or unlevel ground
can cause a crane to tip. Use outriggers to stabilize the crane when the ground
surface or the load requires it. Never operate a crane if the load or slope lifts
the wheels off the ground. For stability when traveling, keep the boom steady
in the direction of the movement. Boomstops should be used if there is a danger
of the boom falling backward.
Other Workers
Workers near mobile cranes can get run over if they do not pay attention or if
the operator loses sight of them. Operators should use an audible warning and
operating signal device to notify workers of movement. Workers should stay out
of the way of the load, the crane wheels, and outrigger wheels. If the operator
has a limited view, a qualified signals person should direct and communicate the
operations. Never ride a load on a crane. Always lash or secure empty hooks when
moving the crane so they do not swing.
Lack of training is the leading cause of accidents.
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