Training Firm Weighs Crane Safety

In view of the increasing prevalence of heavier structural precast products, a safety consultant offers producers and erectors operating tips for lifting

In view of the increasing prevalence of heavier structural precast products, a safety consultant offers producers and erectors operating tips for lifting and placing prestressed concrete bridge components. Special attention on the part of the erection crew is essential, as such lifts often require the use of two cranes working in tandem. Arxcis trainer LeRoy LaMar suggests workers take the following action before a lift is performed:

  • Lift Plan Û Create a lift plan that includes step-by-step instruction, operator qualifications, and crane requirements. The plan should also identify who has ultimate Go/No-Go authority.
  • Communications Û Designate a signaler and ensure that all participants understand standard hand signals. If radios are used, be certain they are guarded from interference.
  • Crane Setup Û Assess ground conditions for adequate crane support, identify all overhead obstructions, and locate the cranes so they can pick and place loads within their stated capacity.
  • Load Assessment Û Verify the weight of the load and all rigging hardware. Determine the load’s center of gravity and rigging lift points with respect to the center of gravity. Determine how rigging will attach to the load.
  • Rigging Hardware Û Inspect all rigging hardware and verify it is load rated prior to use.
  • Lift Meeting Û Gather all participants, including the general contractor, erection and rigging contractor, and crane operator, to discuss how the lift will be executed. Air all concerns and ensure they are resolved before starting the lift.

Arxcis, Inc. offers The Hard Hat Training Series, customizable training kits on CD. More information can be obtained by visiting the web site at www.hardhattrainng.com or by contacting LeRoy LaMar at [email protected].