Common Crane Hazards and How to Prevent Them

When it comes to crane operations, you can't take anything for granted. Preventive measures should be in place to avoid fatal accidents at the worksite. There are certain misconceptions surrounding crane operations and even the most experienced crane operators may hold these misconceptions.

Let's take a look at some of the most common crane hazards that occur at the job site.

Cranes Tip Over

Several operators think it’s safe to overload the crane by a few kilos but this is a misconception. An overloaded crane could cause the machine to fall over, causing damage to the goods, the crane, and the operator.

A load that falls outside the ideal load bearing range will also cause structural damage to the crane. If the operator overloads the crane repeatedly, the boom may fall apart and the load might come off the hoist.

To prevent this, refer to the crane’s load bearing capacity before starting operations.

Load Falls Off

Walking underneath loaded cranes may seem like a fact of life, but it’s something that should be avoided.

When cranes have endured a significant amount of damage, their loads can fall to the ground. Loads can also fall off a crane when they are not properly centred. While cranes have secondary braking systems, these should not be relied on to protect loads and workers.

Always ensure that loads are centred correctly and that your crane isn’t damaged or weak. Avoid using a crane if it is damaged and ensure that workers never operate underneath cranes, regardless of the situation.

Electrocution

This is another common crane hazard that you can avoid with proper preventive measures. Since they’re metallic, cranes are good conductors of electricity. When they come into contact with live power lines, they channel electricity and electrocute the operator and others working on the site.

To prevent loss of life, it’s important to clearly define work areas with the help of barriers. The crane shouldn’t come within 10 feet of a power line. The OSHA has specified this distance and it applies to crane operations in all sectors.

Skills of a Crane Operator

To prevent hazards at the worksite, only licensed crane operators should perform high-risk jobs. Crane operators in NSW have to pass an assessment through the RTO and acquire a license to carry out high-risk operations. The operator should know how to retain and handle the load at all times and they should also know how to deal with emergency situations.

Crane Rental in Solutions

If you’re looking for mobile cranes, Franna cranes or tight access cranes in Sydney, talk to our team today. Our licensed crane operators have years of experience and we offer you the most competitive prices for crane hire.

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Call us on (02) 9546 6680, next time you’re looking for a crane for your job. Alternatively, visit us online tolearn more about our range.

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5 Things to be Aware of Before a Crane Lift

Cranes are useful pieces of machinery for lifting, but they can also cause damage or injury if they are mismanaged.

Let’s take a look at a few things you need to be aware of before a crane lift. This way, you can ensure that you get the most out of your operation.

5 Tips Before Carrying Out Crane Operations

1. Go Over the Load Chart

Before operating the crane and attaching a load, verify the rated load capacity of the crane.

Inspect the markings on all lifting attachments to determine the safe working load ranges. Remember, overloaded cranes pose great risks to the operator and those working on the site. It’s important to go over the load chart carefully to avoid mistakes.

2. Ensure Proper Balance

You have to make sure the load is well balanced when it’s lifted. To ensure proper balance, find out if the main hook is right above the centre of gravity of the load. This will make for very stable operations, meaning the load won’t slip out or come off the slings.

3. Verify the Position of the Sling

You could use the sling in a vertical, basket or choker configuration. Basket configurations have a higher weight limit capacity than vertical configurations. Choker configurations have the lowest rated capacity. Make sure you take into account the position and angle of the sling before starting work.

4. Know how to Handle the Load

The operator must know how to handle the load at all times. If the load is lighter, there’s a chance it will rotate or shift from the sling. To prevent mishaps, you may have to use taglines to safely lift and transport lighter loads. Operators must also know when to stop operations and consider alternative lift plans.

5. Beware of Changes on the Jobsite

For successful operations, be aware of things happening around you. If additional cranes are coming in to boost operations, make sure your work area is clear of all traffic to prevent collisions. Weather also plays an important role. If the conditions are not safe, you might have to stall operations until the work site returns to normal.

Operators shouldn’t work if they’re under the influence of alcohol or taking medications that will make them drowsy. A few precautions go a long way in preventing casualties at the workplace.

Crane Hire for Your Needs

If you need to hire cranes in Liverpool, Bankstown, Concord or Randwick, give the professionals at St. George Cranes a call. Whether you’re looking for large or small cranes for hire, you’ll find them all under our roof. Our certified machines are durable and efficient.

   Give us a call on (02) 9546 6680 to hire your cranes. Ask about our affordable crane hire rates!

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5 Safety Tips to Remember When Working with Cranes

Several companies in the construction and manufacturing industry use cranes to lift and transport heavy objects. While crane operations in Australia are quite professional, accidents can occur and the consequences can be serious.

If you’re an employer, you have to make sure that your team abides by safety regulations when working with cranes. Watch for possible hazards and take important steps to prevent mishaps from occurring.

Here Are 5 Tips for Safe and Successful Operations

1. Watch for Power Lines

When cranes come into contact with a power source, there is a risk of electrocution. This jeopardises the life of the crane operator and others working on the site. To prevent accidental electrocution, you should cordon off hazardous areas. Use appropriate fences or barriers and provide sufficient lighting to make the work area safe.

Crane operators have to keep a safe distance between the equipment and the power line. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, this distance should be no less than a 10-foot radius.

2. Don’t Overload

To prevent large objects from falling and injuring people, never overload the crane. If you’re not sure of the manufacturer’s specified load limit, install a load-checking device to prevent casualties. These devices are not expensive and they help you carry out operations safely and successfully.

3. Ensure the Worksite is Even

Accidents occur when cranes have to travel and transport goods on uneven ground. To prevent risks, make sure the ground is even and appoint a signal worker. Signal workers tell crane operators whether the work area is clear of all risks. They guide them in the right direction and warn them of potential hazards.

4. Maintenance

It’s important to inspect all components of the crane for signs of wear and tear. Look for cracks, loose fasteners, worn out ropes and damaged reeving components. Also inspect the wiring, controls, signal lights and electrical components to make sure the crane is safe enough to perform operations. Just because the crane had no issues yesterday, don’t assume it will work perfectly well today. Look at the equipment daily and listen to it to identify inconsistencies.

5. Avoid Side Pull

Only use the crane to tow loads that are lined up properly. Even if the load is small, avoid side pulling as it will render the crane unstable and cause accidents. If you use the crane for a side pull, you’ll end up damaging the wire rope. Pulling at an angle can also exert lateral and vertical force on the crane; something you must avoid at all costs.

Crane Hire in Sydney

At St. George Cranes, we carry cranes of all sizes. Our machines are safe and reliable and they can help you complete your projects quickly.

Whether you need crane rental in Sutherland, Liverpool or Bankstown,we can arrange for the right crane for your operations.

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