Perform a risk assessment for crane operations

A risk assessment for crane operations should consider several key hazards and control measures.

Hazards:

• Falling Loads: This is a primary hazard. Dropped materials can cause serious injury or death.
• Crane Instability: Overloading, uneven ground, or high winds can cause the crane to tip.
• Contact with Power Lines: Cranes can easily contact overhead power lines, leading to electrocution.
• Improper Signaling: Unclear or incorrect signals between the operator and signal person can cause accidents.
• Mechanical Failure: Failure of crane components (e.g., cables, brakes) can lead to dropped loads or uncontrolled movement.
• Environmental hazards: Dust, vapours and mists can cause irritation to the skin and eyes and inhalation can be harmful 3, 5, 6, 11, 12, 14, 18.

Risk Assessment and Control Measures:

1. Pre-Operation Inspection:

   • Hazard: Mechanical failure due to undetected defects.
   • Risk: High severity (potential for serious injury or fatality), medium likelihood (if inspections are not thorough).
   • Control Measures:
     • Implement a daily inspection checklist for crane operators.
     • Ensure that all crane components (cables, hooks, brakes, outriggers) are inspected.
     • Remove any crane from service that has defects until repaired by a qualified mechanic.

2. Load Capacity and Stability:

   • Hazard: Crane tipping due to overloading or unstable ground.
   • Risk: High severity, medium likelihood (if load limits are not followed).
   • Control Measures:
     • Ensure the crane operator knows the crane's load chart and understands how to use it.
     • Use outriggers or stabilizers on firm, level ground.
     • Reduce load limits in high wind conditions.

3. Power Line Safety:

   • Hazard: Electrocution from contact with power lines.
   • Risk: High severity, low to medium likelihood (depending on proximity to power lines).
   • Control Measures:
     • Maintain a safe distance from power lines (at least 10 feet).
     • Use a spotter to observe the crane's movement near power lines.
     • De-energize or insulate power lines if work must be done in close proximity.

4. Signaling and Communication:

   • Hazard: Accidents due to miscommunication.
   • Risk: Medium severity, medium likelihood (if signals are not standardized).
   • Control Measures:
     • Use standard hand signals.
     • Ensure that the signal person is trained and qualified.
     • Use two-way radios for clear communication, especially when hand signals are not feasible.

5. Personnel Protective Equipment (PPE):

   • Hazard: Injury to head, eyes, hands, or feet.
   • Risk: Low to medium severity, low likelihood (if PPE is not used).
   • Control Measures:
     • Require all personnel in the area to wear hard hats, safety glasses, and steel-toed boots.
     • Crane operators and riggers should wear gloves to protect their hands. 1, 7

6. Environmental Factors

   • Hazard: Exposure to dust, vapours, and mists.
   • Risk: Low to medium severity, low likelihood (if PPE is not used).
   • Control Measures:
     • Provide adequate ventilation 3, 5, 6, 11, 12, 14, 18.
     • Wear approved eye protection (properly fitted dust- or splash-proof chemical safety goggles) and face protection (face shield) 1, 7.
     • Wear suitable waterproof gloves 1, 7.
     • Wear suitable waterproof protective clothing 1, 7.

Monitoring and Review:

• Regularly inspect the crane and rigging equipment.
• Conduct periodic safety meetings to discuss crane safety.
• Review accident and near-miss reports to identify trends and areas for improvement.
• Update the risk assessment as needed to reflect changes in equipment, procedures, or the work environment.