Here's a risk assessment for crane operations in the United States, focusing on hazard identification, risk assessment, and control measures based on OSHA regulations and best practices.

Hazard Identification:

• Crane Tip-Over: Ground instability, exceeding load limits, improper setup [1], and failure to account for wind conditions can lead to crane tip-over.
• Load Dropping: This can occur due to rigging failure, exceeding load limits [1], or mechanical failure of the crane.
• Struck-By Hazards: Workers can be struck by the load, crane components, or rigging equipment.
• Electrical Hazards: Contact with overhead power lines can cause electrocution.
• Mechanical Failures: Brake failure, wire rope failure, or other mechanical issues can lead to accidents [2].
• Falls: Workers may fall from the crane or the load during rigging or maintenance.
• Swing Radius Hazards: Personnel within the swing radius of the crane can be struck by the rotating crane [3].
• Crushing Hazards: Occur during rigging, hoisting, or movement of materials.

Risk Assessment:

Assess the likelihood and severity of each hazard. Factors to consider include:

• Likelihood: Frequency of the task, condition of equipment, experience of personnel, and environmental conditions.
• Severity: Potential injuries (minor to fatal), property damage, and environmental impact.

Control Measures:

Prioritize the following control measures in the order of elimination, substitution, engineering controls, administrative controls, and PPE.

1. Elimination:

   • Where possible, eliminate the need for crane operations by using alternative methods.

2. Engineering Controls:

   • Use cranes with appropriate safety devices: Load moment indicators, overload protection systems, anti-two block devices, and outrigger monitoring systems.
   • Ensure proper ground support: Use outrigger pads or mats to distribute the load over a larger area.
   • Maintain equipment: Regularly inspect and maintain cranes and rigging equipment according to manufacturer's recommendations and OSHA standards [4].

3. Administrative Controls:

   • Qualified Personnel: Ensure that crane operators, riggers, and signal persons are properly trained and certified [5].
   • Lift Planning: Develop a detailed lift plan that includes load weight, rigging configuration, crane location, and potential hazards. Review the plan with all personnel involved in the lift.
   • Load Limits: Never exceed the crane's rated capacity [1]. Verify the weight of the load using a reliable method [1].
   • Communication: Use clear and consistent hand signals or radio communication between the operator, rigger, and signal person.
   • Weather Conditions: Monitor weather conditions and suspend operations if wind speed, ice, or other factors create a hazard [4].
   • Pre-Operation Inspection: Conduct daily inspections of the crane and rigging equipment before each shift [4].
   • Fall Zones: Erect barricades or caution lines to prevent unauthorized personnel from entering the fall zone [5].
   • Tag-Out Procedures: Implement tag-out procedures for equipment that is out of service [4].
   • Operational Procedures: Adhere to manufacturer's procedures for safe operation [5].
   • Emergency Procedures: Establish and communicate emergency procedures for responding to accidents or equipment failures.
   • Swing Radius Control: Ground personnel should maintain a safe distance from the machine. Remain out of the swing radius/ swing zone, and always check for ground personnel in the swing radius/swing zone. Do not operate with ground personnel in the swing radius/ swing zone [3].

4. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

   • Hard hats: Required for all personnel in the work area.
   • Safety glasses: To protect against flying debris.
   • High-visibility clothing: To ensure workers are visible to crane operators and other equipment operators.
   • Gloves: To protect hands from cuts and abrasions.
   • Safety boots: With steel toes and slip-resistant soles.

Monitoring and Review:

• Regularly inspect cranes and rigging equipment.
• Conduct periodic audits of crane operations to ensure compliance with safety procedures.
• Review accident and incident reports to identify trends and areas for improvement.
• Update the risk assessment and control measures as needed to reflect changes in equipment, procedures, or regulations.

Specific Considerations for the United States:

• OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart CC: Cranes and Derricks in Construction outlines specific requirements for crane operations in the construction industry [5].
• State and Local Regulations: Be aware of and comply with any additional state or local regulations regarding crane operations.

By implementing these control measures and continuously monitoring crane operations, you can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.