Here's a risk assessment for crane operations, keeping in mind Canadian regulations:

1. Hazards Identification

• Overloading: Exceeding the crane's rated capacity can lead to structural failure and dropped loads [1].
• Unstable Ground: Operating on uneven or soft ground can cause the crane to tip over [2].
• Contact with Obstacles/Utilities: The boom or load may strike overhead power lines, structures, or underground utilities [3].
• Dropped Load: Failure of rigging, slings, or load attachments can cause the load to fall [1].
• Swing Radius Hazards: Workers within the crane's swing radius can be struck by the crane or the load [4].
• Mechanical Failure: Malfunction of crane components (brakes, cables, hydraulics) can lead to accidents.
• Adverse Weather: Wind, ice, or poor visibility can affect crane stability and control.
• Lack of Communication: Poor communication between the operator, signal person, and other workers can lead to misunderstandings and accidents.
• Improper Use of Equipment: Using construction machineries of vehicle type for applications other than main application of the applicable construction machineries of vehicle type such as: lifting cargos by hydraulic excavator or lifting/lowering workers using the clamshell 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.

2. Risk Assessment

Assess each hazard based on likelihood and severity. Consider factors like: crane type, load weight, site conditions, proximity to people/property, and weather conditions.

3. Control Measures

• Elimination/Substitution:
  • If possible, eliminate the need for crane operations by using alternative methods (e.g., modular construction, prefabrication).
• Engineering Controls:
  • Use the Right Equipment: Ensure that Lift Mode is selected during lifting operations [4].
  • Level Ground: Perform work on a flat ground 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.
  • Rated Cables and Slings: Use proper rated cables and slings for lifting 9, 10, 11, 12.
  • Sufficient Length: To prevent contact with the machine, lifting cables should have sufficient length 9, 10, 11, 12.
• Administrative Controls:
  • Qualified Personnel: Ensure that crane operators, riggers, and signal persons are properly trained and certified according to Canadian standards (e.g., provincial regulations for crane operator certification). In Canada, crane operators typically need to be certified by their province or territory. Requirements vary, so check local regulations.
  • Lift Plan: Develop a detailed lift plan that addresses all aspects of the operation, including load weight, rigging, crane placement, and potential hazards. Involve all relevant personnel in the planning process.
  • Pre-Use Inspection: Conduct thorough inspections of the crane, rigging, and load-handling devices before each shift. Remove any defective equipment from service.
  • Safe Operating Procedures: Establish and enforce safe operating procedures, including speed limits, signaling protocols, and emergency shutdown procedures. Operate the machine at a safe speed [4].
  • Communication: Designate one person who issues a sign as well as setting up fixed signs related to cargo lifting work, and follow his signs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.
  • Load Restrictions: When setting height or load restrictions, make sure that any work tools that are attached are in the least favorable position [4].
  • Operating Procedures: Check for the correct operation once the restriction has been set [4].
  • Regular Validation: Validate proper settings both initially and periodically during machine operation [4].
  • Speed and Travel: Do not move the (machine) quickly when close to a restriction setting [4]. Do not travel with the restriction set [4].
  • Relocation Considerations: Reset the load restriction if the machine is moved to a different location [4].
  • Settings Check: Always check settings or reestablish desired settings after leaving the machine for any period to ensure desired performance [4].
  • 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 [4].
  • Underground Utilities: Before you operate the machine, check with local utilities for the locations of underground pipes and for the locations of buried cables 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
  • All personnel involved in crane operations should wear appropriate PPE, including hard hats, safety glasses, and high-visibility clothing.

4. Monitoring and Review

• Regularly inspect the crane and rigging equipment.
• Monitor weather conditions and cease operations if conditions become unsafe.
• Review incident reports and near misses to identify areas for improvement.
• Periodically review and update the risk assessment and control measures.