Possible Hazards during Crane Operations and How to Prevent Them

crane and crane operator

Commercial cranes play an essential part in many construction projects, especially large, multi-story commercial, residential, and office space buildings. Such types of projects are continually increasing in the United States, and hence, the demand for commercial crane rental is also growing rapidly. Commercial cranes are used to lift and lower materials and move them horizontally. They usually come with hoist ropes, wire ropes, and sheaves.

 

As earthquakes and wildfires pose unique threats to the residents and businesses of California, the need to rebuild is always significant in this Golden State. However, it is also leading to the conversations around the risks and dangers of crane operations, and with good reason.

 

Potential Dangers and Hazards

Construction cranes are massive and complex machines that can be up to 230 feet in height and can lift almost 20 tons. As such, these machines always come with inherent risks, such as collapse and damage to humans and sites. Thus, planning should be done to put safeguards to prevent the operator and bystander injuries and costly site damage.

 

  • Crane Collapse: Various factors and scenarios can lead to a crane collapse accident, including old machinery that has not been properly maintained. Apart from this, improper usage such as trying to operate a crane at an incline or exceeding its lifting weight limits can also lead to the collapse of the crane. Apart from this, extreme weather can also cause crane collapse.

 

  • Collision Accidents: Though crane collisions are less common, they are also something to keep an eye on. To prevent collisions, crane operators must complete and maintain rigorous training. In some instances, they may not see a crew member if he/she is not wearing hi-viz clothing or fails to avoid the warning zone around cranes.

 

Therefore, it is critical to hire only skilled crane operators and well-maintained cranes to do the job. Since the costs of buying, maintaining, and repairing cranes and training employees to operate the cranes are very high, it always makes sense to get in touch with a company that offers highly reliable and prompt commercial crane rental services.

 

How a Commercial Crane Rental Provider Takes Measures to Avoid Potential Hazards

 

A reputable commercial crane rental company, such as REBCO, takes proper measures to keep the crew safe and minimize the potential hazards.

 

  • Have a Team of Skilled Crane Operators

Individuals who are hired to operate the crane must receive proper and complete training through an accredited crane operator training program, complete the training, enroll in an apprenticeship program, and obtain the relevant certification. The National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) requires crane operators to meet the medical requirements, comply with the NCCCO’s substance abuse policy, pass written exams, and clear their practical exams. Proper and complete training reduces the risk of loss and increases safety.

 

  • Know the Cranes Properly

Crane operators should be familiar with the design of the cranes and have access to their full manuals. The crane contractor should establish procedures and priorities for the crane’s operation. This may include proper inspection and load testing of the cranes when they first arrive on the site and periodically as well.

 

Besides, the construction contractors should be able to identify and eliminate the hazards during the design and preconstruction phase, nearby power lines, etc.

 

At REBCO, you will get only trained and highly skilled crane operators who have years of experience in operating cranes with utmost safety and precautions. You don’t have to worry about anything. All you need is to get in touch for commercial crane rental services and share your location and requirements.

 

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