Dangers of Working With Cranes
Construction work is one of the most dangerous careers in America. Part of the reason for this is that the equipment used in construction is so powerful, large, and heavy. If it were not, it would not be able to handle the materials used in construction, but as a result, it can cause serious injury in the event of a work related accident.
Cranes are one of the most dangerous types of equipment used in construction, and also the most necessary. Here are some of the biggest dangers involved with cranes and tips on how to avoid them.
- Faulty Equipment
If the equipment has not been inspected or maintained in a while, it could become faulty. Such a malfunction may occur without warning and result in serious injury. To avoid this, regular inspections should take place, and crane repairs Chattanooga should be ordered promptly for any defects.
- Power Line Contact
If the boom of a crane comes in contact with an overhead power line, the current can travel all the way down to the operator in the cab. Serious injuries, such as electrical burns, can result. A life may be potentially lost to electrocution. The operator should take note of the position of any power lines in the vicinity and maintain a safe distance from them at all times.
- Contact With Others
Injuries can also occur if the load comes loose and falls on people underneath the crane, or if either the load or the boom come in contact with people nearby. Barricades should be posted around the swing radius to prevent this, and operators should never swing loads over the heads of others.
Crane operators should be aware of safety measures such as these. Anyone intending to operate a crane should receive thorough instruction and training beforehand.
