Although technological advancement has made cranes safer for use at construction sites, there is still a long way to go for them to be completely safe. You must be aware that the percentage of injuries and fatalities happening on a construction site is high. The cases can be quite atrocious and mind-blinding to experience and to learn about. These cases can cost highly both in terms of lives and finances. Workers and other participants are always at risk while working at a crane construction site. Although precautions need to be taken by the crane controller, there are several steps workers can take to steer clear of any accidents.
Let’s learn about a few of the top safety measures that can be followed to avoid such accidents.
Thorough Inspection
It is essential to have a complete and thorough inspection of the crane before beginning the work. Proper inspection beforehand would ensure that the crane is not malfunctioning and safe for further use. It is also important to test the operating functions of the crane daily to make sure that everything is working safely and there are no cracks or defects in the crane itself.
The chances of any accidents after prior scrutiny of the crane are way less than using the crane directly at the time of construction when workers are around.
Planned Swings
The operating radius of the crane is usually barricaded and timed to have a control zone and safe area of work. The area should be re-examined before starting the construction work to ensure that no workers are in that zone. It could turn out to be dangerous for the worker to be inside the barricaded zone.
Pay Close Attention
Workers need to be more cautious of their surroundings. While working on the construction site, it is important that everyone keeps keen attention on what is going on around them. Being too close to the barricaded zone or getting distracted while carrying/ handling machinery can become a fatal action for everyone involved in the work.
Recruitment of Experienced Controller
It is absolutely significant to hire an experienced controller to work on the crane at the construction site. In the absence of a controller who knows the technicality and working of the crane, there is a maximum chance of fatalities. The controller should be well versed with operating cranes and should have at least a year or two in hands experience of the work involved.
The experienced controller doesn’t only make sure that the crane is operating effectively but also sees to it that the surroundings are adequate and safe for workers.
Strictly follow load limits
While many modern cranes include load moment indicators and rated capacity limiters, crane operators should be knowledgeable enough to know how to read load charts in order to prepare for a safe lift. In case of any defects in the indicator, the operator must ensure that the load limit is being paid attention to maintain a safe work environment.