Crane & Hoist Safety

Many types of cranes, hoists, and rigging devices are used for lifting and moving materials.  Crane and Sling safety policies are designed maintain a safe workplace. Only qualified and licensed people may operate cranes. To a crane operator, few experiences can be as frightening as when a crane becomes unbalanced while a load is being lifted or when the crane collapses under the weight of an excessive load.

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Manufacturer's instructions must be followed when operating cranes hoists and slings. Attach the load to the block hook by means of slings or other approved devices, making sure the sling is clear of all obstacles. Once the load is properly secured and balanced in the untwisted sling, slowly raise the load. Horizontal movement must also begin slowly to prevent the load from swinging or coming into contact with other obstacles.

The crane warning signal or horn must be sounded when the load or hook comes near or over personnel. Carrying loads over personnel is not recommended. A load should not be left suspended.

Audible and discernible voice communication should be kept with the operator at all times. If this cannot be accomplished, a signal system should be used. Standard signals as shown on the next page; however, it may be necessary to create special signals in certain circumstances. In these circumstances, the signals must be understood and agreed upon by all individuals using the crane. .

 

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Moving large, heavy loads is crucial to today's manufacturing and construction industries. Much technology has been developed for these operations, including careful training and extensive workplace precautions. There are significant safety issues to be considered, both for the operators of the diverse "lifting" devices, and for workers in proximity to them. This page is a starting point for finding information about these devices, including elevators and conveyors, and their operation.

All overhead cranes are required to have characteristics to promote their safe use. The OSHA regulation specifies design requirements on the construction of the cab and its controls; foot-walks, ladders and stairways; bridge and trolley bumpers; hoist, holding, trolley and bridge brakes; electrical components; hoisting equipment; and warning devices.

Routine crane and hoist  inspections are required to ensure continued safe crane and hoist operations of the crane and the safety of the employees around the crane. An initial inspection of the crane prior to initial use of new and altered cranes is necessary. Once placed into service, overhead cranes will require two different types of inspections. Frequent inspections are done at daily to monthly intervals, while periodic inspections are completed at monthly to annual intervals. The purpose of the two inspection types is to detect critical components of the crane and to determine the extent of wear, deterioration or malfunction.