Cranes are crucial machines at most construction projects, enabling the lifting and movement of heavy materials. However, their immense power also brings significant risks. Understanding crane lifting hazards and control measures is essential to prevent accidents and protect lives. This article will discuss common crane hazards and provide practical tips for mobile crane safety.
Common mobile crane hazards
When operating mobile cranes, you face several potential dangers. Being aware of these crane hazards is essential for ensuring a safe working environment.
- Overloading: This is a major crane lifting hazard. Lifting loads heavier than the crane's rated capacity can cause the crane to tip over or collapse, resulting in severe accidents and damage.
- Boom collapse: A crane's boom can collapse due to structural failure, exceeding load limits or improper setup, posing a serious threat to anyone nearby.
- Electrocution: Contact with overhead power lines is a critical crane lifting hazard. You must always maintain safe distances from power lines to prevent electrocution incidents.
- Falling loads: If loads are not properly secured or slings fail, materials can fall from a height, causing injuries to workers below and damage to property.
- Crane tip-over: Unstable ground, improper outrigger extension or sudden load movements can cause the entire crane to tip over, leading to serious accidents.
- Collision with structures or personnel: Inadequate communication, blind spots or careless operation can result in the crane colliding with nearby structures or striking workers.
Mobile crane safety tips
Implementing effective control measures is crucial for mitigating crane hazards and control measures. Here are some essential mobile crane safety tips for your site.
- Ensure the crane is thoroughly inspected before being operated.
- Make certain that the ground is levelled and that all ground support points are firm before the crane is erected.
- Provide effective communications with the operator and signal persons.
- Keep clear of overhead power lines and all obstacles.
- Inspect all rigging, slings, and hooks for damage.
- Train operators and ground personnel in crane operation.
Conclusion
It’s important to pay attention to crane lifting hazards and control measures in any project involving heavy machinery. With an awareness of the potential hazards and best safety practices, you can minimise the risks.
With machine and business operations both being expensive, you will also want to protect them. This is where engineering insurance becomes imperative. There are various risks associated with machinery and projects, including potential damage to cranes, which are typically covered by insurance, providing financial security for your investments.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. Please read the sales brochure / policy wordings carefully for detailed information about on risk factors, terms, conditions and exclusions. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.