07 Apr Working Around Cranes

Working Around Cranes

Cranes are among the most versatile and useful pieces of equipment on a construction site. They can lift and move loads that would otherwise be impossible to handle. However, their size, moving components, suspended loads, and large operating areas can create serious struck-by, caught-between, and crushing hazards for anyone working nearby.

Employees working around cranes must remain alert and stay clear of crane operations unless their job requires them to be in the area.

Guide for Discussion

Stay Clear of the Swing Radius

A crane’s rotating superstructure and counterweight can create a dangerous crushing or caught-between hazard.

• Know the crane’s swing radius before work begins.
• Stay outside barricades or other controls established around the swing radius.
• Never position yourself between the rotating crane and a fixed object, structure, vehicle, or material.
• Do not enter the swing radius unless your work requires it and appropriate precautions have been taken.
• Never cross through a controlled crane operating area simply because it appears to be a convenient shortcut.

Stay Clear of Suspended Loads

Never stand, walk, or work directly beneath a suspended load.

• Stay out of the load’s fall zone.
• Never place yourself between a suspended load and a fixed object.
• Do not attempt to stop or control a swinging load with your hands or body.
• Use tag lines when appropriate to control loads from a safe position.
• Never ride on a load, hook, headache ball, or other lifting attachment.
• Do not enter the load-handling area unless your duties require you to be there.

A rigging failure, shifting load, equipment malfunction, or unexpected movement can cause a suspended load to fall or swing without warning.

Watch the Boom

Stay clear of the crane boom and its operating area.

Never walk beneath a boom or suspended load. Be aware that the boom, load, rigging, and crane can move unexpectedly during lifting operations.

Overhead electrical lines present another serious hazard. Maintain required clearances and follow the site’s electrical-safety procedures whenever crane operations are conducted near energized power lines.

Pay Attention to the Operator and Signal Person

During lifting operations, the crane operator may be concentrating on the load, crane controls, or designated signal person and may not see employees entering the operating area.

• Never assume the operator sees you.
• Obey barricades, warning signs, and instructions from the signal person.
• Do not distract the crane operator during lifting operations.
• Stay where the operator or signal person can account for your location when your work requires you to be near the lift.
• Follow established communication and signaling procedures.

Only qualified or appropriately trained personnel should perform duties requiring specialized crane signals, rigging, or crane operation.

Wear Required PPE

Wear required PPE for the worksite and crane operation. This may include:

• Hard hat.
• Safety footwear.
• High-visibility clothing.
• Safety glasses.
• Gloves appropriate for material or rigging handling.

PPE provides additional protection but does not make it safe to stand beneath a suspended load or inside an uncontrolled swing radius.

Before a Lift Begins

Workers in the area should understand:

• Where the crane will operate.
• The crane’s swing radius.
• Where the load will travel.
• The established fall zone.
• Where employees are permitted to stand.
• Who is directing the lift.
• What signals or warnings will be used.

If you are unsure where it is safe to stand, ask the supervisor or designated person before entering the area.

Remember

When working around cranes, never assume the operator can see you or that a suspended load will remain where you expect it. Stay outside the swing radius and fall zone, remain clear of suspended loads and booms, obey established barriers and signals, and stay alert to changing crane movements.