Crane Safety Basics

Introduction

 During the recent lifting up the tunnel formwork on the truck for transportation, there were several, serious
safety concerns observed.
 The purpose of this presentation is to ensure that the observed safety concerns are not repeated during the
upcoming lifting of the tunnel frames, camp cabin materials and other equipment
Preparation for the lift

 Erect barriers around the area of the lift; this should include the track the load will follow whilst it is
suspended. Barriers for lifting operations shall be in addition to any area barriers already in place and shall
be for the specific purpose of preventing un-authorized personnel (especially other workers from the
construction project).
 Assign and post barrier wardens as appropriate to ensure that nobody crosses the barrier.
 Conduct a specific tool box talk, less than 1 hour prior to starting the lifting operation.
 Assign roles and responsibilities to those taking part in the lift.
Prepare for the lift

 Inspect the load(s).

 Inspect the crane.
 The load is free of loose materials, packing, and parts
 The sling and hoisting ropes have no slack
 The load does not exceed the maximum load capacity
 The lifting device fits properly in the hook saddle
 Ensure outriggers are fully deployed and are on solid ground with load spreaders beneath as appropriate.
Immediately before the lift

 Assign 1 person to give instructions to the crane operator. No other person may give instructions (except to
STOP) and the crane operator shall accept no instructions (except STOP) from any other person.
 Ensure the operator and signal man both understand the signals to be used.
 Attach ”Tag-Lines” to the load (diagonally opposite corners)
 Assign personnel to the tag lines and explain their roles.
 Ensure all understand …
 NOBODY touches the load
 NOBODY passes under the load (and the load shall not be pass over anybody)
 NOBODY stands in the “shadow” of the load
Do things the right way
Signals
Illustrations
The Lift

 Ensure that the load is correctly secured to the crane.

 Ensure the wire and slings are taut prior to starting the lift (avoid any jerking motions)
 Do not drag the load.
 Ensure the load is balanced (an initial lift of less than 200mm should be sufficient to ensure that the load is
balanced).
 Maintain smooth movements of crane controls and loads.
 Check nothing catches on the rising/travelling load.
 Never leave a load swinging. If in doubt about any operation or any issue which arrises during the lift, return
the load to ground level immediately.
The Cost of Failure
Thank you for your attention

 A successful lift, is a safe lift