Crane & Lifting Safety

Overview

Crane and lifting operations can expose workers to suspended loads, equipment overturning, dropped objects, crushing hazards and contact with structures or electrical lines. Every lift should be properly planned, supervised and performed by trained personnel using certified equipment. Critical lifts require additional engineering review, communication and control measures.

Main Hazards

• • Dropped or uncontrolled suspended loads
• • Crane overturning due to unstable ground or incorrect outrigger setup
• • Workers entering the suspended-load exclusion zone
• • Crushing and trapping between the load and fixed structures
• • Failure of slings, shackles, hooks or lifting accessories
• • Overloading the crane or lifting equipment
• • Incorrect load weight or center-of-gravity assessment
• • Contact with overhead electrical lines
• • Poor communication between the operator, rigger and signal person
• • High winds, poor visibility or adverse weather
• • Unexpected load movement, rotation or snagging
• • Unauthorized personnel entering the lifting area

Essential Controls

1. 1Prepare an approved lifting plan before the operation begins.
2. 2Confirm the load weight, dimensions, center of gravity and lifting points.
3. 3Use a crane with sufficient rated capacity for the planned radius and configuration.
4. 4Verify that the crane, slings, shackles, hooks and lifting accessories have valid inspection certification.
5. 5Inspect all lifting equipment before use and remove damaged items from service.
6. 6Assess ground-bearing capacity and provide suitable outrigger mats or supporting materials.
7. 7Fully deploy outriggers as required by the manufacturer and lifting plan.
8. 8Establish and barricade an exclusion zone around the lifting operation.
9. 9Never allow personnel to stand or pass beneath a suspended load.
10. 10Assign trained and authorized operators, riggers and signal persons.
11. 11Use one designated signal person and agreed standard hand signals or radio communication.
12. 12Use tag lines where they can safely control load rotation and movement.
13. 13Maintain safe clearance from overhead electrical lines.
14. 14Monitor wind speed and stop lifting when limits are exceeded.
15. 15Perform a trial lift to confirm balance, rigging security and crane stability.
16. 16Stop the operation immediately if communication is lost or unsafe conditions develop.

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