Perform a risk assessment for crane operations

Here's a risk assessment framework for crane operations in Canada:

1. Risk Assessment Team & Scope: Assemble a team with crane operators, supervisors, safety personnel, and a health and safety representative [1]. Define the scope (specific crane type, tasks, location) [2].

2. Hazard Identification: Identify potential hazards associated with crane operations [1]. Consider:

• Moving objects (loads, crane components) [3].
• Falling objects (tools, materials) [3].
• Pinch points on machines [4].
• Slips, trips, and falls (on the crane, around the work area) [4].
• Ergonomic hazards (awkward postures, repetitive motions) [3].
• Electrical hazards [3].
• Crane malfunctions or breakdowns [3].
• Protruding objects [4].
• Psychosocial hazards (stress, harassment) [3].
• Working alone [4].

3. Task Breakdown: Break down crane operations into specific tasks (e.g., pre-shift inspection, rigging, hoisting, moving loads, lowering loads, post-operation shutdown) [1].

4. Risk Assessment: Assess the risk (likelihood and severity) associated with each hazard for each task 6, 13. Consider:

• Probability: How likely is the hazard to cause harm? [5]
• Severity: How serious could the harm be (e.g., first aid, injury, permanent disability, fatality)? [5]

5. Control Measures: Implement control measures using the hierarchy of controls [1]:

   • Elimination: Remove the hazard completely.
   • Substitution: Replace hazardous equipment or processes with safer alternatives.
   • Engineering Controls: Implement physical changes to the workplace or equipment to reduce the hazard (e.g., install physical barriers, use remote controls) [6].
   • Administrative Controls: Implement safe work procedures, training programs, and permit systems [6].
   • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Provide and ensure the use of appropriate PPE (e.g., hard hats, safety glasses, gloves, safety boots) [7].

6. Specific Control Measures for Crane Operations:

   • Pre-Operation Inspection: Inspect the crane as often as required - pre-operation, daily, weekly, monthly, annually and/or periodically as specified by the manufacturer [8]. Document all findings clearly in the maintenance logbook, including all tests, repairs, modification and maintenance [8].
   • Safe Load Handling: Use agreed upon signals [9]. Make sure everyone is away from the load before hoisting [9]. Make sure all slings, hooks, hardware, etc. are appropriate for the loading being lifted, are in good working order, and that all angles for the slings are appropriate [9].
   • Crane Operation: Do not carry anything in your hands when going up and down ladders [9]. Do not operate a crane if limit switches are out of order, or if cables show defects [9]. Do not attempt lifts beyond the rated load capacity of a crane or slings [9].

7. Monitoring and Review: Regularly inspect crane equipment, rigging, and work practices [1]. Review the risk assessment regularly and update it as needed (e.g., after incidents, near misses, or changes in equipment or procedures) [10].

8. Communication: Communicate the results of the risk assessment to all workers involved in crane operations [1]. Ensure workers are aware of the hazards and control measures in place [1].

9. Documentation: Keep records of the risk assessment, control measures, inspections, and training [10].

Remember to consult provincial regulations and CSA standards for specific requirements related to crane safety in your jurisdiction.