Overhead cranes are essential to manufacturers the world over. A lot of manufacturing in the modern-day era we live in relies on having and utilizing industrial overhead cranes. In a nutshell, industries cannot function well without cranes.
However, their massive size and the nature of their operations creates a hazardous environment to operate in for workers. It easy for overhead cranes to cause fatal accidents. As such, it pays to operate the overhead cranes safely. Herein we will explore the must-follow safety tips that every company operating an industrial crane should follow.
Ensure Only Qualified Personnel Operate The Crane
Overhead cranes are massive and sophisticated machinery that requires the operator to intricate knowledge of operating the crane as well the safety precaution necessary to operate the crane safely. With this in mind, only allow trained and experienced personnel to operate the crane.
Deal With Electrical Hazards
Electrical hazards are a huge risk to be cognizant of when operating an overhead crane. According to OSHA, about 50% of all overhead crane accidents are caused by the machinery coming into contact with high voltage power sources. Moving materials nearby, over, or underneath energized power lines comes with a lot of risk of coming into contact with the power lines. In the event the crane comes into contact with the power lines, anyone in touch with the crane is immediately electrocuted.
Operate The Crane In Strict Adherence To Load Limits
According to the United States’ OSHA, the over 80% of all structural upset and failures in cranes can be attributed to operator exceeding the operational capacity of their cranes. Overloading a crane subjects its structure to extreme stress that it was never designed to withstand. While this will cause irreversible damages, there is also the risk of causing an accident, which in an industrial setting can quickly become fatal. With that in mind, always operate the industrial overhead crane in strict adherence to the operational limits of the crane as defined by its manufacturer.
Always Inspect The Equipment And The Load Before Operating The Crane
Visually and physically inspect the crane and the load before operating the crane. Before lifting the load, it is paramount you ensure that the crane is in good working order. Additionally, you should ensure the load is packaged as safely as possible to ensure safe operations. The load should not exceed the load limit to ease the stresses subjected to the crane.
Ensure Workers Are At A Safe Distance While Operating The Crane
The vast majority of crane-related accidents are human-induced. To negate the chances of accidents occurring, workers should clear the loading areas as well as spaces underneath the crane. Establish a safe parameter around the crane. Importantly, remind workers every day during safety briefing about staying away from the crane as it operates.
Maintain The Crane According To The Manufacturer Recommendations
As is expected, cranes experience wear and tear over their lifetime. With many moving and stressed parts, you can expect the crane to require maintenance and repairs. With regards to maintenance, always ensure that the crane is well-maintained as advised by the overhead crane manufacturer. If the crane breaks down, you should not operate the crane until it is repaired.