Here's a risk assessment for crane operations, focusing on hazard identification, risk assessment, and control measures.

Hazard 1: Crane Instability/Overloading

• Risk: Crane tipping or structural failure due to exceeding load limits or operating on uneven ground. This can lead to dropped loads, equipment damage, and potential injuries or fatalities to workers in the vicinity. [1]
• Risk Level: High (Likelihood: Medium, Severity: Critical)
• Control Measures:
• Elimination/Substitution: Where possible, reduce the weight of the load or use a crane with a higher load capacity.
• Engineering Controls:
  • Ensure the crane is set up on a firm, level surface, using outriggers and pads as necessary [1]. Wood blocks used to support outriggers must "(i) Be strong enough to prevent crushing, (ii) Be free from defects, (iii) Be of sufficient width and length to prevent shifting or toppling under load" [1]
  • Use load monitoring devices to prevent overloading [2].
• Administrative Controls:
  • Develop and implement a lift plan that includes load weight calculations, crane capacity charts, and a detailed rigging plan 3, 4.
  • Designate a qualified person to supervise lifting operations and ensure adherence to the lift plan 3, 4.
  • Verify the weight of the load before lifting [1].
• PPE: Hard hats, safety shoes, and high-visibility clothing for all personnel in the area.

Hazard 2: Dropped Loads

• Risk: Loads falling due to improper rigging, equipment failure, or operator error. This can cause serious injuries or fatalities to workers below or nearby, as well as damage to property.
• Risk Level: High (Likelihood: Medium, Severity: Critical)
• Control Measures:
• Engineering Controls: Use safety latch-type hooks or mouse the hooks to prevent slings from slipping off [3].
• Administrative Controls:
  • Ensure that all lifting equipment (slings, hooks, chains) is inspected regularly and maintained in good condition 7, 8.
  • Train workers on proper rigging techniques and load securement 3, 4.
  • Establish a clear communication system between the crane operator and the signal person [4].
  • The employer must assure that the operator does not leave the control position while the load is suspended [4].
• PPE: Hard hats and safety shoes are essential. Consider requiring safety glasses or face shields during rigging operations.

Hazard 3: Contact with Overhead Power Lines

• Risk: Electrocution of crane operators or ground personnel due to contact with energized power lines. This is a critical hazard with potentially fatal consequences.
• Risk Level: High (Likelihood: Low, Severity: Critical)
• Control Measures:
• Elimination: De-energize and ground power lines near the work area if possible.
• Engineering Controls:
  • Use proximity warning devices to alert the operator when the crane is near power lines [5].
• Administrative Controls:
  • Maintain a safe distance from power lines as specified in regulations [5].
  • Designate a spotter to observe the clearance between the crane and power lines [5].
  • Before the commencement of operations near electrical lines, you must notify the owners of the lines or their authorized representative notified and provide them with all pertinent information [5].
• PPE: Use insulated gloves and clothing where there is a risk of electrical contact.

Hazard 4: Crane Operator Incapacitation

• Risk: Crane operator experiencing a medical event (e.g., heart attack, seizure) or impairment due to fatigue or substance use, leading to loss of control of the crane. [6]
• Risk Level: Medium (Likelihood: Low, Severity: Critical)
• Control Measures:
• Administrative Controls:
  • Implement a medical surveillance program for crane operators, including regular physical examinations [6].
  • Enforce strict policies regarding drug and alcohol use [6].
  • Implement measures to prevent operator fatigue, such as limiting work hours and providing rest breaks [6].
  • Evidence of physical defects, or emotional instability which could render the operator or trainee a hazard to their self or others, or could interfere with their safe performance may be sufficient cause for disqualification [6].
• Engineering Controls: Install a deadman switch that stops the crane if the operator releases the controls.

Hazard 5: Collisions

• Risk: Crane colliding with other cranes, structures, or objects in the work area, resulting in equipment damage and potential injuries.
• Risk Level: Medium (Likelihood: Medium, Severity: Serious)
• Control Measures:
• Engineering Controls: Install anti-collision systems on cranes operating in close proximity [7].
• Administrative Controls:
  • Establish clear traffic patterns and exclusion zones in the work area [8].
  • Use tag lines to control the load and prevent it from swinging into obstructions [8].
  • If 2 or more tower cranes are erected in such a manner that the radii of operations overlap, the employer must ensure that operators are provided with a visual or auditory means of communicating with each other [7].

Monitoring and Review:

• Conduct regular inspections of cranes and lifting equipment 7, 15.
• Review incident reports and near-miss investigations to identify trends and areas for improvement.
• Periodically evaluate the effectiveness of control measures and make adjustments as necessary.
• Ensure that all crane operators and related personnel receive refresher training at least annually.

By implementing these control measures and maintaining a strong safety culture, the risks associated with crane operations can be significantly reduced.