presentation - crane safety

Copyright Progressive Business Publications

Crane Safety


Crane Accidents

Improper use of cranes can cause:

– Property loss

– Damage to the environment

– Personnel injury

– Death


5 Steps to Prepare for a Safe Lift

1) Inspect the crane and surrounding area

2) Test limit switches

3) Know the weight of the load

4) Find the center of gravity

5) Rig the load properly


Inspect the Crane and Surrounding Area

Inspect the crane for defects or missing parts

Look for overhead obstacles

Make sure the crane will not pass over people

Identify all areas the crane or load could hit

Make sure the ground is level and solid


Test Limit Switches

Move crane to safe area

Test upper and lower limit switches

If any suspected failure:– Stop operation– Turn off the power– Place a lockout tag on the remote control – Notify your supervisor


Know the Weight of the Load

If the load is too heavy, the crane can tip over or the boom can collapse

Slings on angles can’t hold as much weight as slings that are perpendicular

500 pounds of stress on each sling leg

1,000Pounds

1,000Pounds

1,000 pounds of stress on each sling leg

50

0 LB

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50

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1,000 LBS1,000 LBS


Find the Center of Gravity

The point at which an object is balanced

A load slung directly above its center of gravity is more likely to be stable

Suspended objects move so that their center of gravity is below the equipment that holds it

It may take several attempts at rigging to balance the load


Rig the Load Properly

Inspect rigging equipment

Keep attachment point as far above and far away from the center of gravity as possible

Attach tag lines

Verify rigging by lifting a few inches

Check for loose items


Slings

Use slings to support the load

Pad sharp edges to protect slings from damage

Inspect all slings before use

Examine labels for rated weight capacity


Hooks

Examine the label to ensure the hook can support the load

Examine hooks for damage

Carry the load on center of the hook’s curve

Never rest a hook on the ground


Safe Operating Procedures

Do not leave suspended loads unattended

Only lift loads vertically

Keep the load close to the ground

Take precautions when wind exceeds 20 mph

Do not distract another crane operator unless you want the operator to stop the crane


Working Near Overhead Wires

Cranes should not be operated near power lines unless the lines are de-energized

Anti-current devices can’t replace deenergization of power lines

Always treat power lines as if energized

Follow the rules if you contact energized lines


Hand Signals

Signalman assigned to each lift station

Hand signals used because environment may be too loud

Stop signals obeyed at all times

Other signals acceptedonly from one person


Crane Safety after Use

Move to safe location and place emergency stop switch in off position

Remove load

Return slings and accessories to designated storage areas

Return crane to upper limit switch


Summary

5 steps to prepare for a safe lift:1) Inspect the crane and surrounding area

2) Test limit switches

3) Know the weight of the load

4) Find the center of gravity

5) Rig the load properly

Follow safe operating procedures

presentation - crane safety

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