Lifting Device Safety

Lifting devices, such as cranes, are used in industry to move a variety of loads. Safe operation involves testing the equipment, putting up the proper signage and doing a hazard assessment. These steps help to prevent accidents from occurring.

Hazard Awareness

• Each lifting device, or crane, should have a safety issues analysis done to identify potential problems. This is done when the crane is first certified for use, and several items are looked at, including the brakes, lifting mechanism and structure of the crane. The assessment of the device also outlines possible accidents that could occur and solutions that can be put into action.

Features

• The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) requires that the maximum load that the device can lift has to be clearly shown on each side. This is also true for the hoist, or lifting mechanism. If a crane is not operational, an "out of order" sign should be attached to the device, on the flooring beneath it or to the lifting mechanism.

Safe Operation

• When operating the crane, caution has to be used when a load approaches the weight limit. The brakes should have a test done to see if they can handle the load. This test involves lifting the load a small distance from the floor and then putting on the brakes. During any lifting operation, a supervisor will monitor the situation and give direction to others workers.