Crane Operation Rules

 

Overview

Safe crane operation involves using the correct type and size of crane for the work site. An active inspection program, as well as periodic maintenance, contributes to a safe operation.

What must I do to operate a crane safely?

Guidelines to follow for safe crane operations include:

·               Evaluate the site—mobile cranes require a solid, level supporting surface. Check the loadbearing capacity of the site. Inspect for any underground utility lines and additional digging hazards.

·               Check for overhead power lines—OSHA requires a 10-foot clearance between the power line and the equipment. A signal person should used to maintain the required distance. It is a good idea to check with the electric company to see if the line can be de-energized.

·               Never exceed the crane's load-limit—load rating should be tested on an annual basis. The weight of the load blocks and slings should be included in the calculations. Loads should always be balanced and secured. Personnel should never stand underneath loads.

·               Lift loads properly - Lower, raise, brake, and swing loads slowly. If a load is moved too fast, it drifts away from the crane which can cause the crane to tip forward or the boom to collapse.

·               Never exceed the crane's load-limit—load rating should be tested on an annual basis. The weight of the load blocks and slings should be included in the calculations. Loads should always be balanced and secured. Personnel should never stand underneath loads.

·               Only lift loads when the crane is level. Consider wind speed and how that might affect the load. Don't drag or push a load. Swing every load slowly and don't change speed suddenly.

·               Avoid positioning the hook, or swinging a load over a person. When a load is held, be sure to set and lock the brakes.

Crane inspections

To ensure smooth crane operation, take time to perform the following functions:

·               Tighten or replace loose or missing hardware.

·               Inspect wire rope for defects.

·               Check fluid levels and look for leaks. If fluid is leaking, schedule an appointment with the maintenance shop to have it fixed.

·               Ensure that operating controls are clearly marked.

·               Check to make sure a fire extinguisher and first-aid kit is available.

·               Ensure that load limiting devices are available.

Lock Out - Tag Out

 

Overview
Lockout/tagout is an important part of confined space entry. Locks and tags are used to prevent accidental start-up of equipment while you are in a confined space. Steam, water, gas, or power lines that enter the confined space, and mechanical equipment must all be locked out and tagged before you enter the space.

Before entry into such spaces, the entire space should be removed from service and completely protected against the release of energy and material into the space.

Lockout/tagout Procedures
Employers must evaluate the confined space to determine if any equipment or lines need to be locked out and tagged. A pre-entry permit or checklist, a part of the confined space entry plan, must be completed before workers enter the confined space.

All pumps and lines which may reasonably cause contaminants to flow into the space must be disconnected, blinded and locked out, or effectively isolated by other means, to prevent development of dangerous air contamination or engulfment. Main power switches to equipment must be locked out at main power panel. Locks must be tagged to inform others that a confined space entry is in process.

If blocking and/or isolation requires entry into the space, the provisions for entry into a confined space must be implemented.

Lockout/tagout Methods
Lockout is the process of turning off and locking out the flow of energy from a power source to a piece of equipment or circuit, and keeping it locked out.

Lockout is accomplished by installing a lockout device at the power source so that equipment powered by that source cannot be operated. A lockout device is a lock, block, or chain that keeps a switch, valve, or lever in the off position.

Locks are provided by your employer and cannot be used for other purposes.
Tagout is accomplished by placing a tag on the power source. The tag acts as a warning not to restore energy—it is not a physical restraint. Tags must clearly state: Do not operate or remove this tag or the like, and must be applied by hand.

The employer’s primary tool for providing protection is the energy-isolating device. This is the mechanism that prevents the transmission or release of energy and to which all locks or tags are attached. This device guards against accidental machine or equipment start-up or the unexpected reenergization of equipment during servicing or maintenance.

To avoid confusion and an accidental removal of a lock or tag when a confined space entry is in progress your company must have a lockout/tagout plan. Know the plan and never violate it for any reason.

Entry/Exit Preparations

 

Overview
It takes hours of practice to perform an entry/exit procedure properly, but the hours are worth it if it saves even one person.

The construction regulations say that before you are required to enter into confined or enclosed spaces you must be instructed: (1) as to the nature of the hazards you might run into, (2) what you have to do to protect yourself from those hazards, and (3) how to use the protective and emergency equipment required.

You must also comply with any specifics of the job you are doing, i.e. welding, excavation work, etc., that apply to work in dangerous or potentially dangerous areas.

Prepare and use company entry/exit checklists with the following information. Checklists should be tailored to each entry situation.

Pre-entry Checklists
Training—Are all employees involved in entry trained?

Potential hazards—What hazards can be identified about a particular space and what can you do to control or eliminate them? Examples are engulfment, toxic gases and oxygen deficiency.

Control of atmospheric and engulfment hazards—What methods will be used to control or eliminate actual or potential hazards. Some examples are lockout/tagout and ventilation.

Surrounding area surveillance—The surrounding area must be surveyed and secured.

Atmospheric testing—What will be done to evaluate the hazards of the space and verify that acceptable entry conditions for entry exist.

Entry—If there are no physical hazards, and if the pre-entry tests show there is no dangerous air contamination and/or oxygen deficiency, and there is no reason to believe that any is likely to develop, entry into and work within may proceed. Continuous air monitoring should be done and workers must immediately leave the space when any of the monitor alarms sound.

Rescue—Your company must have procedures for summoning rescue and emergency services, for rescuing entrants from confined spaces, for providing necessary emergency services to rescued employees, and for preventing unauthorized personnel from attempting a rescue.

Exit procedures
Emergency exit—is accomplished when: an order to evacuate is given by the attendant or the entry supervisor, the entrant recognizes any warning sign of exposure to a dangerous situation, the entrant detects a prohibited condition, or an evacuation alarm is sounded.
Normal end of job exit—includes securing and putting up signs prohibiting unauthorized entry.