A Guide to Maintaining Crane Safety Standards at Construction Sites

Most construction projects can’t get off the ground without the use of a crane and other heavy-duty equipment. As a leading crane service in Tucson, AZ, we understand the importance of crane safety standards. Learn how your worksite can prevent serious accidents in this guide to crane operation safety. 

Five Essential Construction Crane Safety Tips

Construction crews must follow OSHA crane standards to keep everyone safe during crane operations. Here are some vital protocols for working with a crane on construction sites. 

1. Conduct Regular Equipment Inspections

Operating a crane without thoroughly checking key components is a recipe for disaster. Contractors should perform annual inspections to assess the machine’s rigging and cabling capabilities as well as its joints. Monthly checks must take place to monitor any issues that arise during the yearly inspection. 

In addition to the above, during an ongoing construction project, operators must inspect the machinery daily to rule out common performance problems before construction begins. Crane inspection protocols include the following tasks:

• Checking the hydraulic system
• Starting the engine 
• Testing all safety mechanisms

Document all of your findings to keep a record of any notable issues. A comprehensive crane safety guide will feature a detailed maintenance checklist. 

2. Prevent Overloading the Crane

Crane safety standards protect construction workers, nearby machines, and building materials. Lifting objects that exceed the system’s load capacity can be catastrophic. The equipment may tip over or even drop the load, damaging the structure being built and harming crew members in its vicinity. 

Research heavy-duty cranes before your project begins and assess each model’s load capacity. Once you select the right one for your project, be mindful of its limitations.

3. Practice Proper Rigging Techniques

A crucial part of crane hazard prevention is how crews rig the equipment. Experts must ensure all materials are in good condition and select the right rigging gear for the load. Several factors influence how contractors rig a crane at a construction site, including:

• Weight distribution
• Wind movement
• Crane mobility

4. Remove Obstructions From the Work Area

Following all other crane safety guidelines won’t make a difference if you fail to clear obstacles around the job site. Remove other equipment or materials blocking the path for optimal safety. If you need to operate a crane near powerlines, de-energizing them ensures the safety of the operator and other contractors. 

5. Prioritize Communication During Crane Operation

Imagine how dangerous it would be to drive a car without seeing what’s in front of you. Operating a crane without effective communication is no different. The operator can’t always see other parts of the construction site and needs someone to convey potential dangers to them at all times.

Trust Our Trained Crane Operators for Your Construction Project

Inadequate knowledge of all crane components can have dire consequences on the job site. Don’t let a lack of crane safety standards derail your construction project. Contact Hook Crane Services at (520) 323-0963 to request a quote for crane contracting solutions.