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  • Writer's pictureCostello Safety

OSHA Overhead Crane Safety Tips & Crane Safety Standards

Updated: Apr 25, 2023

Cranes are among the most crucial pieces of machinery in industrial and construction settings. Your employees may be accustomed to seeing numerous cranes every day. These machines play a significant role in the production and are always in operation. However, it's possible that because workers see them so frequently, they assume the crane is always safe.



Due to a lack of crane operating safety requirements, crane accidents can result in additional issues such as property damage or equipment loss in addition to workplace injury and death.


Importance of Crane Safety Rules on the Jobsite


We encourage you to read about safety features in cranes and other pertinent information inside equipment manuals. Also, refer to OSHA’s extensive and exhaustive requirements regarding crane safety.


Crane mishaps happen far too frequently, and the majority of them could be prevented. Here are the top six crane safety recommendations to keep you and your crew safe on the job site. Being safe while performing your job is worth the effort and training that many of these recommendations require. It’s your responsibility to make your company’s workers aware. Make sure they follow your example.


1. You need a certified operator

Cranes have the potential to be devastating weapons. Disaster could happen if it is in the wrong hands. Consequently, rigger safety training is a requirement. In any circumstance, they ought to be able to calculate and set up precise loads. Training programs for trainers have been effective in achieving this objective.

2. Inspect and inspect again It's true that your crane needs to be inspected every year, but don't stop there. The OSHA crane standard covers more ground. Every day, the operation function should be examined by a knowledgeable individual. Report any suspected flaws or failures right away; everything ought to perform flawlessly.


Safety advice for overhead cranes is crucial. For years, these cranes have operated in hazardous situations. However, they are susceptible to failure if the years of heat in an industrial setting cause them to become too brittle or weak. Ensure that your staff is fully aware of the safety guidelines for overhead cranes.


For training your workers, use safety consulting companies like Costello Safety Consulting. You’ll increase crane operation safety and production as well.


3. Look below

When preparing for crane safety, the surface is crucial. If your equipment is placed on uneven terrain, it won't operate as it should. Label the soil. Note the materials that your crane is supporting. Your loads and limitations will need to be adjusted accordingly.


Tipping mishaps result from this negligence. Even when working on concrete or asphalt, load charts are useful. Take crane lifting safety one step further, though, and consider what is beneath the asphalt and concrete. Safety for crane outriggers is also crucial. Outriggers are used on cranes, although extension does not guarantee a firm surface. Outriggers shift the weight, but the compression force might break the ground or the earth.


4. Pay attention

OSHA crane regulations are in place for serious reasons. The more you communicate these rules, the better everyone will memorize and practice them. Establishing clear lines of communication with construction hand signals, horns, or radios is a great idea. Use the OSHA crane safety handbook to identify proper signals. Teach your workers this all-important workplace language.


Utilize the Costello Safety Consulting OSHA training instead. Our professionals can advise your team on crane safety equipment regulations and general construction safety thanks to our years of experience.


5. Plan for swing

The key is the swing radius. It's necessary to barricade that region inside the radius. The boom ought to be able to move freely without colliding with anything. In this section of OSHA crane safety, power cables can turn into a life-threatening mess.


6. Always have a plan in place

Each lift differs from the one before it. You must adhere to an emergency action plan that you have created. It is essential to inspect the machinery. The most important path, however, involves evaluating suspended loads, capabilities, and weather, among other things. Get everyone involved, including the operator, riggers, and nearby employees. To be prepared for emergencies, use the construction site's medical services.


For Crane Safety Requirements, Advice, and Programs, contact our team today to learn how we can make your workplace safer!




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