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Crane operation best do’s and don’ts

  • liftool_admin
  • 08 May 2024

What safety measures should be taken prior to operating an overhead crane?

Before commencing a lifting operation with an overhead crane, it is imperative to ensure you have completed the necessary prerequisites.

  • Inspect the crane thoroughly before each operation to minimize the potential for accidents. Accidents often arise when operators attempt to lift or shift hefty loads using damaged cranes. Since overhead cranes are responsible for lifting extremely heavy loads, their components are prone to frequent wear and tear. Therefore, it is imperative to assess the crane’s condition, including its individual parts, prior to each use. Failing to do so may result in catastrophic accidents if loads are lifted with a defective crane.
  • Before attempting to lift a specific weight, it is crucial to consider the overhead crane’s maximum load-bearing capacity. Exceeding this limit significantly increases the risk of accidents. Each crane has a designated load limit, and exceeding it can compromise its stability.
  • During a lifting operation, it is imperative that no worker is present on the premises, as lifting failures, particularly when dealing with heavy loads, can occur at any time. To ensure safety, workers must refrain from wandering underneath overhead cranes during the operation, as there is a risk of the load falling and resulting in an accident.
  • Before commencing a lifting operation, it is imperative to conduct a thorough inspection to ensure that the load is securely fastened to the hook of the overhead crane. Hooks on overhead cranes can become loosened over time, potentially leading to detachment of the load, which can result in unavoidable accidents. Therefore, it is crucial to verify the secure attachment of the weight to the crane’s hook to prevent such incidents.
  • You must assign trained operators to utilize overhead cranes, as trainee operators may not be able to handle the operational units of overhead cranes correctly. During the transportation of heavy loads, it is crucial to operate the overhead crane diligently. Only individuals with prior experience should be entrusted with the task of operating overhead cranes, as assigning this responsibility to a trainee operator may not be advisable.

Things to Avoid During Overhead Crane Operation

  • It is imperative to avoid lifting loads that exceed the maximum weight-carrying capacities of an overhead crane, as such risky behavior can potentially lead to fatal consequences for workers. Regardless of the urgency, attaching excessive weight to the crane is life-threatening and must be avoided.
  • Relying solely on hand signals during overhead crane operations can be dangerously risky for workers. There is a significant risk of miscommunication when using hand signals, making it crucial to employ electronic signal lights to ensure safer crane operation.
  • It is vital not to allow workers to ride on overhead cranes while they are in operation, as this poses significant risks. The crane hook can detach at any moment, causing the worker to fall. Therefore, it is imperative to strictly prohibit riding on the crane while lifting heavy loads.
  • When operating an overhead crane, it is essential to avoid lifting heavy loads from the sides. Instead, focus on lifting the weight straight upwards. Attempting to lift the load from the sides can result in significant lifting failures.
  • It is essential to exercise caution throughout the lifting operation and avoid pausing it in the middle, as this can create dangerous situations. Remain vigilant until the operation is completed.

Lastly, never forget to detach the load from the crane’s hoist after lifting. Leaving the weight on the crane poses a significant risk of it falling at any time, making it crucial to ensure it is securely detached.

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