The success of a manoeuvring heavy equipment is due in large part to knowing how to properly operate a crane. And operators of cranes must be aware that they are entrusted with a team that they must know and know how to operate in order to do a good job. Likewise, it will be of vital importance that the crane operator pays attention to the precautions needed to prevent accidents that can damage, not only their integrity, but also that of their co-workers.

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Remember that the operation of the crane evolves like any other industry, and now, it is more important than ever to keep up with the regulations and updates on safety guidelines. This point is very important and even more so when you work with heavy machinery, there are several tips that you have to consider when using a crane.

The crane operator must be qualified

Undoubtedly, this point is of vital importance, if we bear in mind that the success of the manoeuvre will depend to a considerable extent on the capacity and experience of the crane operator. This is because a wrong movement of the operator can be fatal. Also, you need to have the proper training, safety training and mentality to handle any inconvenience. Thus, once you have passed a rigorous selection to be hired, you will be the one to operate a crane properly.

Avoid overloading the crane

A good operator should avoid overloading the crane, as it is very dangerous and can cause serious problems, such as accidents. It should be avoided by reviewing the capacity tables that come from the manufacturer.

Likewise, when operating a crane properly, the operator must have the ability to say no, since sometimes bosses or managers put pressure asking to include more loads in cranes that are not of that capacity.

Be aware of the general risks

Specifically, it is about being aware of what is around the work area, such as nearby buildings and power lines that may be within the area of operation. The work area can be extended further up and out, depending on the perspective of the operator according to the way in which the cranes. Since these machines must move to perform the manoeuvre and be on the way to buildings and power lines.

Read the loading tables

If your goal is to properly operate a crane, before turning on the engine of any of this equipment, be sure to read and understand the capacity tables, which come with each machine. In this way they ensure that a crane is properly operated and not overloaded. Remember that each crane has a load table that, in short, specifies the detailed capacity, its characteristics and how its load capacity varies when considering distance and angle.

For this reason, it is important to pay attention to this old saying “if you cannot plan, you plan to fail”. That is, do not consult the load capacity table of the crane before renting or operating a crane for a specific job, you could load others or on the other hand the load may be too little for your work.

Avoid using the cell phone

As with automobiles or cars in general, cell phones should not be used while driving. In this case, it must not be used while in the crane cabin or when the machine is being operated. Therefore, if you want to operate a crane properly you should avoid using cell phones while the equipment is operational. Turn off the mobile device, even before setting foot in the cabin. There are other ways to communicate with those who are working during operation and everyone else can wait. This point is important to avoid the risks of accidents in the operations centre.

Inspect the workplace

Look around and analyse your workplace to determine if you can properly operate a crane safely. Do not start your workday if you notice something of disorder in your area, be it some type of unevenness, debris, holes and electrical lines that could cause an accident.

Even the smallest change in the workplace can cause a change in the operation of the crane. Therefore, it is vital that before the installation or parking of the crane, you must ensure that the site is adequate to support heavy machinery and suspended loads.

Use personal protective equipment (PPE)

To operate a crane properly, you also need to use personal protective equipment (PPE). When this equipment is put you will have more security, since you will protect your physical integrity, if in case there is an accident. Obviously, all of your co-workers, too, should use the PPE. Which must be checked before starting the manoeuvre or lifting with cranes, by the person in charge of the work.

Inspect your equipment

Before starting the shift of your work, you should always walk around the crane and check that there are no mechanical, electrical, structural, or hydraulic problems (MESH). You know your machine better than anyone, so you should know what you need or need. This point is important, not only to operate the crane properly, but to avoid simple operation errors. Since little by little you can avoid an incident in the workplace.

Remember that gas, oil and other liquid levels should be checked regularly to make sure they are full and ready to operate. This may seem obvious, but those are the things that are not done and are more often overlooked.

Verify maintenance

Maintenance is a key factor to consider, no matter what type of machinery is being operated; as for example, cranes, forklifts. Both the crane operator and the inspectors must verify that the maintenance of the heavy machinery has been carried out; In addition to all emergency controls, controls, stabilisers and rails, wheels, tires and protective equipment, etc.

Test the equipment

Performance tests are required to ensure that the crane is operating in the correct manner. The test should be done every three to six months or after 150 hours of use. Make sure that the employees who operate the machines know how to carry out the test and that they have their certification.

Remember that here at SAM Technology you will find what you need in order to take operations to a whole new level and increase productivity. A company with an experienced and dedicated engineering team of experts that can offer quick and practical solutions to your problems, tailor-made to cover your requirements and demands.