9 Mobile Crane Safety Tips | Premier Cranes & Rigging

Crane Operation Safety Considerations Everyone Should Follow

It goes without saying that a mobile crane is a versatile piece of equipment that greatly assists the construction of major projects. The capacity to lift and move large loads efficiently have played a key role in modern construction. With that said, mobile crane usage and crane usage in general create an environment where safe operation is imperative to ensure that risk of serious injury or death is minimised. Whether you are a project manager, site foreman, developer or a crane operator there are safety considerations that must be made when it comes to crane operation.

1. Understand the Job Requirements

No two jobs are ever the same therefore it is critical to thoroughly plan how to appropriately support the individual requirements of the job. Whether it be access, safe work load considerations, clearances, hazards, power lines or nearby buildings it is essential to identify all the components necessary to consider with the safe operation of the crane.

2. Onsite Inspection for Hazards

One thing is to identify hazards from site plans and initial site inspections however that may not identification of all hazards. Over the course of the construction or demolition of a building or infrastructure new hazards may emerge. To ensure the safety of the crane operator, workers and the general public that may be in the vicinity of the construction zone it is imperative to conduct a daily hazard assessment of the worksite.

3. Hire Experienced Operators

Generally speaking, a crane operator will be supplied with the hire of a crane. It doesn’t hurt to ensure that the operator does in fact have their tickets and are current at the time. At Premier Cranes all of our operators have extensive experience however that does not mean that all companies have the same standard.

4. Compliance with Work Health & Safety Regulations

Most works performed by cranes will require pre-start checklists, a safe work management system, the necessary permits and supporting documentation to ensure that the work performed is lawful.

5. Observe Ground Conditions

Ensuring the stability of the crane is critical to its safe operation onsite. As a consequence, ground conditions will play a critical part on stabilising the mobile crane. Using pads and cribbing will provide further stability to the equipment.

6. Ensure Clear Communication

When it comes to maintaining safety and managing risks, ensuring clear communication on site is essential. Use radios and hand gestures to convey information throughout the lift to the lift operator and other personnel on site. Before you conduct the lift, establish your communication protocols and brief everyone on site, while any necessary inductions must be completely on the first morning onsite

7. Check Stabilisation

Crane accidents or topples often occur when the crane isn’t stabilised properly or when there is a mechanical error. Mobile cranes require outriggers, bog mats, counterweights and/or other stabilising devices if the ground conditions are not safe, such as a crane pad to help keep the crane level during operation. To ensure stabilisation, never place the outriggers on unsteady ground or voids.

8. Adhere to Load Limits

Misinformation on the load weight or dimensions can result in serious accidents. While many modern cranes have the technology to display capacity limits and load moment indicators, it’s still important that crane operators understand how to read a load chart when preparing for a lift. The load weight and radius must be considered when reading your load chart.

9. Crane Maintenance

To further mitigate risks during a lift, it’s vital that cranes are routinely inspected, tested and maintained. This can ensure that any damage is immediately identified and repaired, as well as ensure that preventative measures are in place to avoid future damage.

Other Safety Precautions

Taking all the necessary steps to ensure the safe operation of the crane is one thing however it is also critical to ensure that both crane operators and workers themselves are wearing highly visible clothing and the appropriate safety equipment. It is also essential to have a working procedure to deal with workplace accidents onsite.

Cranes should never be operated on instinct alone. Irrespective of the experience of the crane operator. By ensuring the safe operation of a crane prior to and whilst in operation will ensure that the project runs efficiently and keeps your costs down. By taking the time to prepare your worksite against the risk of serious injury or death of workers will also ensure that you are abiding by your workplace obligations. For more information on our approach to mobile crane safety click here.

Premier Cranes & Rigging are your mobile crane hire specialists, we understand our clients need the flexibility to engage our services anytime anywhere.