If you need to use a crane for an upcoming work job, it is vitally important that you put safety at the forefront of all decisions you make in regards to the crane. Here are five easy tips that will help ensure that the crane you rent for your next work job does not result in any job site accidents or injuries.
#1 Always Visually Inspect The Crane
Before the crane is put into operation each day, and after each lunch break, the crane should be visually inspected. During this visual inspection, the operator of the crane should keep an eye out for MESH issues, which stands for mechanical, electrical, structural and hydraulic issues. If any issues are found, they should be addressed before the crane is put to use and work should be put on hold until the issue is fixed. It is never worth it to work and use a compromised crane.
#2 Check All Fluids
Another step that your crane operator needs to take before beginning every shift is an inspection of all of the fluids that the crane requires to operate, including the oil and gas. These fluid levels should be checked and topped off before work begins to ensure that the crane operates as safely as possible.
#3 Check Cribbing & Pads
Next, the pads and cribbing need to be check to ensure that they line up with the way that the crane is going to be used. These things should be checked on a daily basis to ensure that the crane is stable. You don't want the crane to sink or move around when it is lifting a heavy object. This could result in an unbalanced situation that could be dangerous.
#4 Keep An Eye On Changing Conditions
Keeping a crane safe is a job that requires vigilance. The foreman and the crane operator should always keep an eye on changing conditions surrounding the crane, including changes in the building job or site or changes in the weather. If significant changes are detected that would interfere with the operation of the crane, changes should be made to ensure safety.
#5 Keep Phone Close By
Whomever is operating the crane should always have a cell phone and radio next to them so that they can contact the crew on the ground with questions, clarification, and warnings. Communication is key when working on a crane. However, these communication devices should only be used when the crane is turned off. Cell phones and radios can distract from one's ability to operate construction equipment such as a crane.
Make sure that safety and caution are at the top of your list when renting a crane for your next construction job.
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