The overall composition of cranes allows them to be utilised in lifting heavy things and moving them to other places on site. From their hoist rope to their chains, their components give them the ability to carry out lifting functions that cannot be done by humans.
One of the industries that maximise cranes is the construction industry. These cranes are capable of moving heavy steels and equipment pieces that are needed for the construction of tall buildings, bridges, roads, and other structures. Other industries that can maximise cranes include mining, marine, civil aviation, transport, and many more.
While cranes can truly be helpful in several significant industries, they must still be assessed, operated, and stored optimally. Here are some basic crane safety tips that must be followed all the time.
Pick the Correct Crane
Before operating a crane for a specific application, the project manager and other relevant personnel pick the right type of crane first. Cranes can be either mobile or fixed. Mobile cranes are recommended for small access areas, while fixed cranes are great for complex projects. Choosing the correct type of crane can ensure that the project will be carried out successfully.
Hire Reliable Operator
Cranes can only be operated by those who have the required licenses and certifications for crane operations. After all, there are certain qualities and credentials needed for operating cranes. Hiring a reliable crane operator can guarantee safe crane operations, which can keep all the people around the site to be free from injuries. Reliable and experienced crane operators can also ensure that the structures around the cranes will not be damaged as they carry out crane operations.
Perform Daily Checks
There are three types of daily system checks that must be done with cranes. The first type is known as pre-start checks. Pre-start checks are intended to be done before starting the crane. The operator, at this point, should assess the condition of the crane’s tire, its oil levels, air reservoir, battery, and other components. The second type of daily checks is the engine start-up checks, which deals with the assessment of the pressure gauge, fuel level, turn signals, and horn. Ultimately, safety system checks deal with the evaluation of the rated capacity limiter, outriggers, and other related parts.
Stabilise the Crane
The outriggers of some cranes are designed to prevent them from tipping over during the lifting and moving operations. Stabilising the cranes can be done by following the guidelines set by manufacturers when it comes to the outriggers. It can also be done by maximising outrigger pads or crane pads that are underneath outriggers. Proper setup of outriggers is crucial to avoid crane accidents and injuries.
Focus on the Load
Objects and pieces of equipment that will be lifted and transported by the cranes must be handled carefully to avoid causing critical injuries and property damages. To prevent them from falling, they must be rigged properly to the crane. Attaching slings to the load can be a great way of distributing its weight once the crane operation starts. Understanding the load radius, force, and weight distribution, as well as different rigging techniques and crane load limits, can help personnel carry out a safe crane operation.
For more information about basic crane safety tips, just give us a call at Allied Crane Hire Newcastle.