Crane Hazards

CRANE -INTRODUCTION
A crane is a Tower or Derrick equipped with
cables and pulleys that is used to lift and lower
materials. Cranes are commonly used in the
construction industry and in manufacturing heavy
equipment.
Construction cranes are usually temporary
structures, either fixed to the ground or mounted
on a purpose-built vehicle.
Cranes may either be controlled from an operator
in a cab that travels with the crane, by a
pushbutton pendant control station, or by
infrared or radio control. Where a cab operator
is employed, workers on the ground will
communicate with the operator through a system
of standardized hand-signals or, in larger
installations, radio systems; an experienced
crew can position loads with great precision using

CRANE -INTRODUCTION

Acraneis a type of machine, generally

equipped with ahoist,wire ropesorchains,
andsheaves, that can be used both to lift and
lower materials and to move them horizontally.
It uses one or more simple mechanism to
create mechanical advantage and thus move
loads beyond the normal capability ofa
human.

Main Basic Lifting Parts Of The Crane:

Lever
Pulley
The hydraulic cylinder

A balance crane contains a horizontal beam

(the lever)pivoted about a point called the
fulcrum.

A jib crane contains a tilted strut (the jib) that

supports a fixed pulley block. Cables are wrapped
multiple times round the fixedblock and round
another block attached to the load.
For stability, the sum of all moments about any
point such as the base of the crane must equate
to zero.

KEY COMPONENTS OF A CRAWLER CRANE

Crane Parts

CRAWLER MOUNTED LATTICE BOOM CRANES NOMENCLATURE

CRANE PARTS & ITS MECHANISM

Definitions
Cran
e

: Consists of a rotating structure for lifting and

lowering horizontally on rubber tires or
crawler treads.

Hoist : Used to lift and lower load.

Boo
m

An inclined spar , strut, or other long

member supporting the hoisting tackle

Boo
: A device used to limit the angle of the boom
m
at its highest position
stops
Brak
e

: To slow or stop motion by friction or power

Block : Sheaves or grooved pulleys in a frame with

hook, eye and strap
Jib

: Extension attached to the boom point to

provide added boom length for lifting

Definitions

Boom angle
indicator

An accessory device that measures the angle of

boom base section centerline to horizontal

Load

The weight of the object being lifted including:

Load block and hook
Wire rope
Rigging

Boom attachments
Ancillary attachment

Outrigger

Support members attached to the cranes carrier frame

which are used to level the crane

Pendants

Stationary wire ropes used to support the boom

Radius

The horizontal distance from the axis of the rotation of

the cranes superstructure to the center of the suspended
load

Superstructure

The rotating frame, gantry and boom or other operating

equipment

Counter
weight

Weights used for balancing loads and the weight of the

crane in providing stability

Deck

The revolving superstructure or turntable bed.

Drum

The spool or cylindrical member around which cables are

Crane-Terminology
Articulating
crane

means a crane whose boom consists of a series of

folding, pin connected structural members,
typically manipulated to extend or retract by power
from hydraulic cylinders.

Assembly/
Disassembly

means the assembly and/or disassembly of equipment

covered under the standard. With regard to tower cranes,
"erecting and climbing" replaces the term "assembly,"
and "dismantling" replaces the term "disassembly."
Regardless of whether the crane is initially erected to its
full height or is climbed in stages, the process of
increasing the height of the crane is an erection process.

Attachments

means any device that expands the range of tasks that

can be done by the equipment.

Audible signal

means a signal made by a distinct sound or series of

sounds. Examples include, but are not limited to, sounds
made by a bell, horn, or whistle.

Blocking

(also referred to as "cribbing") is wood or other material

used to support equipment or a component and distribute
loads to the ground. It is typically used to support lattice

Crane-Terminology
Competent
person

means one who is capable of identifying existing

and predictable hazards in the surroundings or
working conditions which are unsanitary,
hazardous, or dangerous to employees, and who
has authorization to take prompt corrective
measures to eliminate them.

Crawler crane

means equipment that has a type of base mounting which

incorporates a continuous belt of sprocket driven track.

Drum rotation
indicator

means a device on a crane or hoist which indicates in

which direction and at what relative speed a particular
hoist drum is turning.

Counterweight

means a weight used to supplement the weight of

equipment in providing stability for lifting loads by
counterbalancing those loads.

Electrical
contact

occurs when a person, object, or equipment makes

contact or comes in close proximity with an energized
conductor or equipment that allows the passage of
current.

Equipment
criteria

means instructions, recommendations, limitations and

specifications.

Crane-Terminology
Fall
protection
equipment

means guardrail systems, safety net systems,

personal fall arrest systems, positioning device
systems or fall restraint systems.

Fall restraint
system

means a fall protection system that prevents the user

from falling any distance. The system is comprised of
either a body belt or body harness, along with an
anchorage, connectors and other necessary equipment.
The other components typically include a lanyard, and
may also include a lifeline and other devices.

Hoist

means a mechanical device for lifting and lowering loads

by winding a line onto or off a drum.

Hoisting

is the act of raising, lowering or otherwise moving a load

in the air with equipment covered by this standard. As
used in this standard, "hoisting" can be done by means
other than wire rope/hoist drum equipment.

Load

refers to the object(s) being hoisted and/or the weight of

the object(s); both uses refer to the object(s) and the
load-attaching equipment, such as, the load block, ropes,
slings, shackles, and any other ancillary attachment.

Crane-Terminology
Load
moment (or
rated
capacity)
indicator

means a system which aids the equipment operator

by sensing (directly or indirectly) the overturning
moment on the equipment,i.e., load multiplied by
radius. It compares this lifting condition to the
equipment's rated capacity, and indicates to the
operator the percentage of capacity at which the
equipment is working. Lights, bells, or buzzers may
be incorporated as a warning of an approaching
overload condition.

Locomotive
crane

means a crane mounted on a base or car equipped for

travel on a railroad track.

Mobile crane

means a lifting device incorporating a cable suspended

latticed boom or hydraulic telescopic boom designed to
be moved between operating locations by transport over
the road.

Operator

means a person who is operating the equipment.

Overhead and
gantry cranes

includes overhead/bridge cranes, semigantry, cantilever

gantry, wall cranes, storage bridge cranes, launching
gantry cranes, and similar equipment, irrespective of
whether it travels on tracks, wheels, or other means.

Crane-Terminology
Pendants

includes both wire and bar types. Wire type: A

fixed length of wire rope with mechanical fittings at
both ends for pinning segments of wire rope
together. Bar type: Instead of wire rope, a bar is
used. Pendants are typically used in a latticed
boom crane system to easily change the length of
the boom suspension system without completely
changing the rope on the drum when the boom
length is increased or decreased.

Personal fall
arrest system

means a system used to arrest an employee in a fall from

a working level. It consists of an anchorage, connectors, a
body harness and may include a lanyard, deceleration
device, lifeline, or suitable combination of these.

Portal crane

is a type of crane consisting of a rotating upperstructure,

hoist machinery, and boom mounted on top of a
structural gantry which may be fixed in one location or
have travel capability. The gantry legs or columns usually
have portal openings in between to allow passage of
traffic beneath the gantry.

Power lines

means electric transmission and distribution lines.

Crane-Terminology
Proximity
alarm

is a device that provides a warning of proximity to

a power line and that has been listed, labeled, or
accepted by a Nationally Recognized Testing
Laboratory in accordance

Qualified
person

means a person who, by possession of a recognized

degree, certificate, or professional standing, or who by
extensive knowledge, training and experience,
successfully demonstrated the ability to solve/resolve
problems relating to the subject matter, the work, or the
project.

Qualified
rigger

is a rigger who meets the criteria for a qualified person.

Range control
limit device

is a device that can be set by an equipment operator to

limit movement of the boom or jib tip to a plane or
multiple planes.

Range control
warning device

is a device that can be set by an equipment operator to

warn that the boom or jib tip is at a plane or multiple
planes.

Rated capacity

means the maximum working load permitted by the

manufacturer under specified working conditions. Such

Crane-Terminology
Tagline

means a rope (usually fiber) attached to a lifted

load for purposes of controlling load spinning and
pendular motions or used to stabilize a bucket or
magnet during material handling operations.

Tilt up or tilt
down
operation

means raising/lowering a load from the horizontal to

vertical or vertical to horizontal.

Tower crane

is a type of lifting structure which utilizes a vertical mast

or tower to support a working boom (jib) in an elevated
position. Loads are suspended from the working boom.
While the working boom may be of the fixed type
(horizontal or angled) or have luffing capability, it can
always rotate to swing loads, either by rotating on the top
of the tower (top slewing) or by the rotation of the tower
(bottom slewing). The tower base may be fixed in one
location or ballasted and moveable between locations.
Mobile cranes that are configured with luffing jib and/or
tower attachments are not considered tower cranes under
this section.

Two blocking

means a condition in which a component that is

uppermost on the hoist line such as the load block, hook

Crane-Terminology
Wire rope

means a flexible rope constructed by laying steel

wires into various patterns of multi-wired strands
around a core system to produce a helically wound
rope.

Rated capacity

the maximum allowable working load.

Rigging the connecting of a load to a source of power so that it

can be lifted and moved safely and predictably.

Safe working load the maximum allowable working load

established by the manufacturer.

Sheave a wheel with a grooved circumference over which a

rope is bent.

includes both wire and bar types. Wire type: A fixed

length of wire rope with mechanical fittings at both ends
for pinning segments of wire rope together. Bar type:
Instead of wire rope, a bar is used. Pendants are typically
used in a latticed boom crane system to easily change the
length of the boom suspension system without
completely changing the rope on the drum when the
boom length is increased or decreased.

Pendants

Crane-Terminology
Tagline

means a rope (usually fiber) attached to a lifted load for

purposes of controlling load spinning and pendular
motions or used to stabilize a bucket or magnet during
material handling operations.

Tilt up or
tilt down

operationmeans raising/lowering a load from the

horizontal to vertical or vertical to horizontal.

Retract Boom

Take back or withdraw Boom

Telescopic
booms

may be a pinned boom, full-powered boom, or a

combination of both. A "pinned boom" means sections are
pinned in the extended or retracted position. A "fullpowered boom" means sections extend or retract
hydraulically. Some models have a full-powered main
boom with a pinned boom tip section.

Hoisting
Mechanism

The hoisting mechanism for a telescopic crane is a

hydraulically powered hoist drum. The hoist drum is
mounted behind the boom on the crane house orrevolving
turntable.
Some hydraulic cranes are equipped with two hoist
drums: one for the main hoist and the second for the
auxiliary or whip line.

Crane-Terminology
Competen : A person who has acquired, through a
t person
combination of qualifications, training
or experience, the knowledge and skill
to perform the task required.
SWL

: Safe working load.

MBL

: Minimum breaking load of the lifting tackle.

Grommet

: Endless wire rope sling.

Tag line

: A rope of suitable strength, construction

and length attached with an appropriate
recognised bend or hitch to the load, used
to control the load during lifting or
positioning.

Test
certificat
e

: A certificate issued by an authorized

person

Crane-Terminology
Wire rope

: consists of many individual wires laid into a

number of strands which are in turn, laid
around a center core.
:
:
:
:
:

TYPES OF CRANE
CRANES

MOBILE
CRANE

CRAWLER
MAUNTED

TOWER
CRANE

WHEEL
MOUNTED

GANTRY
CRANE

OVERHEAD
TRAVERSE
CRANE

CRANE WITH
HEAVY LIFT
ATTACHMENT

FORK
LIFTS

SEMI
GANTRY
CRANE

CANTILEVER
GANTRY
CRANE

TYPES OF CRANE
On the basis of modern crane studyand advancement there are
twobasic types of cranes:A) Fixed crane
B) Mobile or movable crane

A fixed crane is the type of crane which lift the loads without
any appreciable movement.

A mobile crane is the type of crane which moves from one place
to another as well as movement of the crane basic tools.

Type of Cranes
Mobile cranes are widely used in
construction since they are capable of
moving freely around a job site. Rubber
tired cranes are also capable of moving
rapidly between construction projects.
Crawler cranes have excellent local
mobility but must be transported on
equipment trailers between projects.
Tower cranes are widely used on
building construction sites as well as on
other construction projects requiring
large vertical clearances and having
restricted space in the work area. Such
cranes are able to move loads over a
wide area and have an almost
unlimited vertical range

TYPES OF FIXED CRANE

TOWER CRANE
The tower crane is a modern form
ofbalance crane. Fixed to the ground (and
sometimes attached to the sides of
structures as well), tower cranes often
give the best combination of height and
lifting capacity and are used in the
construction of tall buildings.

Tower Cranes
mobile crane superstructure
mounted atop a tower

vertical boom arrangement

on a mobile crane

vertical tower with a jib.

Tower Erection

Tower Crane Parts

TOWER CRANE

JIB CRANE
This type of crane consists
of a pivoting head and boom
assembly which carries a
hoist and trolley unit.
Lifting Capacity:
1 to 300 tones
Working Radius: 70m
Use: Jib crane used in ship
yards
for
lifting
heavy
machinery and equipment,
weighing 100 to 300 tons.

ROUGH TERRAIN CRANE

Rough terrain crane is a crane
mounted on an undercarriage
with four rubber tires that is
designed for pick-and-carry
operations and for off-road and
"rough terrain" applications.
Lifting capacity:200 tons at 3m
working radius
The rough terrain crane is
used for building bridges,
operations
in
power
and
chemical plants and refineries
and for large- scale projects.

Rough-Terrain Cranes
These cranes are mounted on two-axle carriers .
These units have a lower cost.
These units are equipped with unusually large
wheels and closely spaced axles to Improve
maneuverability at the job site.
They further earn the right to their name by their
high ground c1earence allowance, as well as the
ability of some models to move on slopes of up to
70%.
Most units can travel on the highway but have
maximum speeds of only about 30 mph.
In the case of long moves between projects, they
should be transported on low-bed trailers.

All-Terrain Cranes
Designed for long-distance highway travel.
The carrier has all-axle drive and all-wheel steering, crab steering,
large tires, and high ground clearance.
All-terrain cranes have dual cabs, a lower cab for fast highway
travel, and a superstructure cab that has both drive and crane
controls.
Most appropriate machine when multiple lifts are required at
scattered project sites or at multiple work locations on a single
project.
It has a higher cost than an equivalent capacity telescoping truck
crane or rough-terrain crane.
All-terrain machine can be positioned on the project without the
necessity of having other construction equipment prepare a
smooth travel way as truck cranes would require.

ALL TERRAIN CRANE

A mobile crane with the necessary
equipment to travel at speed on
public roads, and on rough terrain at
the job siteusing all-wheel and crab
steering. ATs combine the road
ability ofTruck-mounted Cranes and
the maneuverability of Rough Terrain
Cranes.
Lifting capacity: up to 300 tons
Working radius: 34m
All-terrain mobile cranes are excellent
for use in places where ground is
uneven or not very accessible like a
beach or a rocky expanse.

CRAWLER CRANE
Acrawler craneis a crane mounted on an
undercarriage with a set of tracks (also called
crawlers) that provide stability and mobility.
Lifting capacity from about 35 to 40 tones
This particular asset class is ideal for working
in confined or small area where a big crane
can not reach.
Crawler crane command their position at
many of power plants, thermal plants and at
big infra projects.
These crane are well suited for piling, drilling
and pipe laying operation by just adding
suitable attachment.

Mobile Crane
Lattice-boom truckmounted
Crawler

Telescoping boom
all-terrain
Rough-terrain
Modified cranes
for heavy lifting

Crawler Cranes
The full revolving superstructure of this type of unit is mounted on a pair
of continuous, parallel crawler tracks.
The crawlers provide the crane with good travel capability around the job
site.
Inclined lattice mast, which helps decrease compressive forces in the
boom.
Relocating a crawler crane between projects requires that it be
transported by truck, rail, or barge. These machines usually have lower
Initial cost per rated lift capability, compared with other mobile crane
types is low, but movement between jobs is more expensive.
Therefore, crawler-type machines should be considered for projects
requiring long duration usage at a single site.

RAILROAD CRANE
Rail road crane is one of the mobilecrane type. The
name tells us that this crane runs on rail tracks.
A railroad crane is specifically designed with
flanged wheels so it can travel along railroad
tracks. Although the design differs according to the
type of work, the basic configuration is the same in
all cases which is a rotating crane body is mounted
on a sturdy chassis fitted with flanged wheels.
Uses:
1. For lifting the goods at station yards.
2. It may be used for installing signalling equipment
or pointwork, for example, while more specialised
types are used for track laying.

Telescoping-Boom Truck-Mounted Cranes

These truck-mounted cranes have a self-contained telescoping
boom.
Most of these units can travel on public highways between
projects under their own power with a minimum of
dismantling.
These machines, however, have higher initial cost per rated lift
capability.
For small jobs requiring crane utilization for a few hours to a
couple of days, a telescoping truck crane should be preferred.
Telescoping-boom truck cranes have extendable outriggers for
stability.

TELESCOPIC BOOM CRANES

Telescopic boom cranes are typically
calledhydraulic crane.
The booms are composed of a series of rectangular,
trapezoidal, or other shape of symmetrically crosssectional segments, fitting into each other.
The largest segment, at the bottom of the boom, is
called the base sectionorboom butt.
The smallest section, at the top of the boom, is called
the tip section or boom tip.
In between there can be one or more sections called
thefirst, second, and so forth, sections.
With the boom fully retracted, the telescopic boom
crane is highly maneuverable and easy to transport to
jobsites.
Telescopic boom crane nomenclature is shown in figure.

Latticed-Boom Truck-Mounted Cranes

The lattice-boom truck crane has a fully revolving superstructure
mounted on a multi axle truck/carrier.
The advantage of this machine is the lattice boom. The lattice-boom
structure is lightweight.
This reduction in boom weight means additional lift capacity, as the
machine predominately handles hoist load and less weight of boom.
The lattice boom does take longer to assemble. The lightweight boom
will give a less expensive lattice-boom machine the same hoisting
capacity as a larger telescoping-boom unit.
The disadvantage of these units is the time and effort required to
disassemble them for transport. In the case of the larger units, it may be
necessary to remove the entire Superstructure.

LATTICE BOOM TYPE OF CRANES

LATTICE BOOM TYPE OF CRANES

TYPES OF CRANES

WHEEL MOUNTED PICK AND CARRY CRANE

WHEEL MOUNTED TELESCOPIC CRANE

WHEEL MOUNTED
TELESCOPIC CRANE WITH
SINGLE POINT CONTROL

WHEEL MOUNTED TELESCOPIC CRANE

WHEEL MOUNTED TELESCOPIC

CRANE WITH MULTI POINT
CONTROL

TYPES OF CRANES

TYPES OF CRANES

TYPES OF CRANES

TYPES OF CRANES

TYPES OF CRANES

Fly Jib

Fixed Jib

Booms
A lattice boom resembles pipe pieces
connected together. It is cable suspended and
acts as a compression member. The structure is
lightweight, which means extra lifting capacity.
This boom is usually transported in sections that
are assembled at the site. Crawler and tower
cranes typically have lattice booms. Most heavy
lifting is done with lattice booms.
A telescoping boom works in the same manner
as a retractable telescope. As lift height is needed,
the boom is telescoped or extended. This boom
acts a bending member when lifting. Typically, the
boom comes ready for lifting when it arrives at the
site. Mobile hydraulic cranes, sky track type lifters
use telescoping booms. Moderate to medium
lifting can be done with telescoping booms.

Outriggers
Movable beams that
can be extended
laterally from a
mobile crane to
stabilize and help
support the unit.
Some models can
operate on their tires
when there is firm
leveled ground, but
their lifting capacity is
markedly reduced

Mobile Cranes
Lifting Principles
Center of
Gravity
Leverage
Stability
Structural
Integrity

STABILITY OF THE CRANE

CRANE ACT AS A LEVER

Counter Weight
weight
FULCRUM

THE FULCRUM IS NOT A POINT CONTACT.

AREA OF CRAWLERS ACTS LIKE THIS

STABILITY OF THE CRANE

CRANE ACT AS A LEVER

FOUR PARAMETERS ARE IMPORTANT

1. OPERATING RADIUS
2. HEIGHT
3. BOOM LENGTH
4. WEIGHT OF THE LIFT

Crane Hazards
Improper load rating
Excessive speeds

Working too close to

power lines

No hand signals

Improper exhaust
system

Inadequate inspection
and maintenance

Shattered windows

Unguarded parts

No steps/guardrails
walkways

Unguarded swing
radius

No boom angle
indicator
Not using outriggers

CAUSES OF CRANE FAILURE

The main causes of crane failure are listed

as:

1. Struck by Load
Electrocution
2
.
3. Crushed During Assembly/Disassembly
4. Failure of Boom/Cable
5. Crane Tip Over
6. Struck by Cab/Counterweight
7. Falls

Types and Causes of Crane Failures

The number and description of categories used to classify crane failures
varies significantly in available literature.
Struck by Load (Other than Failure of Boom/Cable)
Being struck by a load accounted for 32% of fatal crane events. The most
common contributing factors to this proximal cause in order were rigging
failures, loads being dropped, equipment damage, unbalanced loads, and
accelerated movement.
Electrocution
Electrocution accounted for 27% of fatal crane events. All recorded
electrocutions involved mobile cranes and were the result of a cranes boom or
wire rope getting to close to high voltage power lines.

Types and Causes of Crane Failures

Crushed During Assembly/Disassembly
21% of crane related fatalities were contributed to being crushed during crane
assembly or disassembly. Lattice boom cranes were involved in all of these deaths.
The most common contributing factors to this proximal cause in order were
improper disassembly and pin removal, improper boom support, and improper
assembly.
Failure of Boom/Cable
Failure of a boom or cable accounted for 12% of fatal crane events. The most
common contributing factors to this proximal cause in order were overload,
equipment damage, boom collapse, incorrect assembly, cable snapping, boom
buckling, and two blocking, lifting a load to high and having the hook block strike
the tip of the boom.
Crane Tip Over
Crane Overturning was the cause of 11% of fatal crane events. The most common
contributing factors to this proximal cause in order were overload, loss of center of
gravity control, outrigger failure, high winds, side pull, and improper maintenance.

Types and Causes of Crane Failures

Struck by Cab/Counterweight
Being struck by the crane cab or counterweight was only responsible for 3% of
fatal crane incidents. Tragically all reported incidents were cause by intentional
turntable rotation or by intentional motion of a bridge crane.
Falls
Falls were the cause of 2% of all crane related fatalities. Missing hand rails,
improper crane operation, and improper maintenance were three contributing
factors.

Guard Moving Parts

Unguarded
Chain Drive

Guard moving parts such as gears or belts

Swing Radius

Stay out of the swing radius of the crane

guards showing swing radius

Make sure there are barrier

Operator Visibility
Broken Window

Make sure broken windows or other obstructions do not

prevent the operator from seeing

Ladders

Ladder

Use ladders to get to the upper portion of the cab

Guardrails

Runways and steps need to have guardrails,

handholds and slip resistant surfaces

Suspended Loads

Dont stand under

suspended loads

Boom Angle Indicator

A boom angle indicator must be on the crane

Supporting Surface

Cranes must be on a firm supporting surface and level

within 1 percent

Sheaves

The grooves must be smooth and free from surface

defects which could cause rope damage

Remove From Service

Immediately remove damaged or defective slings from service

Damaged wire rope

Crushed Rope
Broken Strands

Damaged wire rope must be taken out of service

Tire Inspections

Conduct regular
inspections
of tires for excessive
wear or damage

SIGNALER

A crane operator should always move loads according to the

established code of signals, and use a signaler. Hand signals are
preferred and commonly used. A signaler may be required by
law if the operator's view of the intended path of travel is
obstructed.
Signaler :
A person qualified to give crane signals to the operator.
There should be only one designated signaler at a time.
If signalers are changing between each other, the one in charge
should wear a clearly visible badge of authority.
A crane operator should move loads only on signals from one
signaler.
A crane operator must obey STOP signals no matter who
gives it.
The signaler must:

Be in clear view of the crane operator.

Have a clear view of the load and the equipment.

Keep persons outside the crane's operating area.

Person In Charge (Banksman / Signaler)

Hand Signals

An illustration of the signals must be posted at the job site

CRANE

It is mechanical
lifting device
equipped with
hoist,
wire ropes, and
sheaves
that can be used both
to lift and lower and
move them
horizontally.

APPLICATION
Cranes are commonly
employed in the
Construction Industry,
Docks, and
Manufacturing Heavy
Equipment's.

EEPL

CRANE HAZARDS- INTRODUCTION

The myriad hazards associated with crane design
are addressed at length in other publication.
Six of the most frequent life-taking hazards are
1.

Two-blocking

2.

Crane upset from overload

3.

Jib-boom stowage on hydraulic telescoping

booms

4.

Latticework boom disassembly

5.

Crane operator protection

6.

Power line contact

Cranes are used on most construction projects, and

are a source of a significant percentage of injuries,
an overview of how crane hazards can be identified
is needed by construction managers and those
responsible for construction safety.

Crane Hazards

Two Blocking

CRANE HAZARDS - Two-blocking

The Hazard Syndrome (set of symptoms, condition)

The hazard of two-blocking is dormant when the crane

is not in use.

The hazard becomes armed when the operator is using

the crane, as use may allow the headache ball to
approach the vicinity of the tip of the crane boom.

The hazard is active when two-blocking occurs and the

load hook assembly or lower load block contacts the
sheave on the boom tip or upper load block, causing the
hoist line to part and break, or pull the headache ball
and hook up over the top of the sheave at the tip of the
boom.

The load straps become disconnected, and the load is

lost, becoming a falling object and imperiling the lives
of those working below. The illustration above shows a
boom tip unprotected and able to two-block.

CRANE HAZARDS - Two-blocking

Two-Blocking. A condition in which the lower load block or hook assembly comes
into contact with the upper load block or boom point sheave assembly.

Two Blocking
Anti-Two Block Systems for cranes. A limiting device shall be installed
and maintained to prevent the hook or other end fittings from contacting the
upper sheaves.

CRANE HAZARDS - Two-blocking

Two-blocking- Peril from the Failure Mode

Two-blocking is defined as," the condition in which the lower
load block (or hook assembly) comes in contact with the upper
load block (or boom point sheave assembly), seriously
interfering with safe operation of the crane.

Death and crippling injury often result when a line

two-blocks.
On latticework booms, the following stresses in
combination can break the hoist cable:
The weight of the load
The weight of the headache ball and rigging
The tension caused by the hoist drum
The weight of the boom when the pendant goes
slack
Whip caused by a long latticework boom

Two-blocking-Peril from the Failure Mode

A crawler crane walking to a location with a
raised boom and the headache ball snug against
the boom tip sheave can snap the hoist line.
On hydraulic boom cranes, the power of the
hydraulic rams that extend the boom often create
sufficient tension to brake the hoist cable if the line
two-blocks.
Both crane types will two-block when the hook is
near the tip and the boom is lowered.
An operator can forget to release or pay out the
load line when extending the boom, and the hoist
cable can be broken.
This hazard first in the category of structural /
mechanical hazards under tension. However, the

Two-blocking-Peril from the Failure Mode

Accessory

A secondary part or assembly of parts which

contribute the over-all function and usefulness of
a machine.

Angle
Indicator
(Boom)

An accessory which measures and indicates the

angle of boom to the horizontal.

Anti Two-Block A device which, when activated, disengages all

Device
crane functions that can cause two-blocking.
Switch

A device for making, breaking, or for changing the

connections in an electric circuit.

Track

A structural member that supports the trolley or

crane wheels.

Two-Block
Damage
Prevention
Feature

A system which will stall when two-blocking

occurs without causing damage to hoist rope or
crane machinery components.

Two-Block

Warning device to alert the operator of an

Two-blocking-Peril from the Failure Mode

The consequences of two-blocking are devastating to
all parties involved and include
The loss of life;
Fines by the Government body or OSHA
Compensation expense;
The employers embarrassment over local TV and
news coverage; and,
The crane owners and the manufacturers liability
loss for not providing an anti-two blocking device.
The anti-two-blocking device often does not
function, as the crew frequently disables the device
because they say they dont like to hear it ringing
while roading the crane short distances when the
hook is pulled to the boom tip.

Two-blocking-Hazard Identification and Prevention Matrix

Two-blocking presents the natural hazard of a falling object
caused by gravity, and can be effectively guarded against by an
anti-two-blocking device. It is caused by the hazard of cable
tension.

Crane Hazards

Crane upset from overload

Crane upset from overload-The Hazard Syndrome

A crane can upset from overloading. Any crane without a
Load-moment indicator (LMI) presents a dormant hazard
that can become armed at any time when the weight of the
load on a crane exceeds its rated capacity and causes it to
destabilize.
Analysis shows that over half of the incidents involving this
hazard occur when the crane operator is either swing the crane
cab, or extending or lowering the boom with the outriggers
retracted.
Both these actions can activate the hazard to upset by
increasing the lifting radius. At that point upset occurs
quickly.
Crane slew angle measurement. The slew angle is the angle of rotation of the
crane boom (upper) relative to the crane carrier (lower). Slew angle is also
sometimes referred to as swing angle.

Crane upset from overload-Peril from the Failure Mode

The significant consequences of crane upset are a
mixed bag of either on or combination of the following:
%

Consequences

3%

Fatalities

8%

Lost-time injuries

24 % Lost-production
45 % Damage to the crane
20%

Serious damage to other property

This hazard is both natural and structural / mechanical,

because it is caused by gravity and instability applied by
outside tractors.

Crane upset from overload-Brief Summary of the Occurrence

A truck driver was crushed to death by an

overturning large truck-mounted hydraulic
telescoping-boom crane.
The crane was offloading heavy concrete
barriers on a freeway when it upset.
The driver assumed that he was in a safe place,
standing by his truck next to the crane.
The general contractors work plan included
using the crane with its outrigger retracted and
keeping the crane inside the freeways inside
lane.
The middle lane was used to concrete barriers
from rental trucks, and the outside lane was
reserved for southbound traffic.

Crane upset from overload-Brief Summary of the Occurrence

The cranes load-moment indicator (LMI) had

been disconnected. Had the LMI been in use,
the interlocks on the interlocks on the
outriggers would have not allowed use of the
cranes boom with outriggers retracted.
The key to disconnect the LMI and allow
unsafe use of the crane was provided by the
rental company.
The work was being done at the night, and
the upset occurred around midnight. Mere
moments before the crane upset, a station
wagon with several person

Crane upset from overload-Contributory Factors

In the aforementioned case study, the lack of
construction safety planning to reroute public traffic
and allocate space to extend the cranes outriggers
was the principle deficiency.
The following fault-tree analysis lists events that can
create a change of circumstances to trigger the
hazard into the active mode from the armed mode.
The maximum load that a crane is capable of lifting
safely varies depending on the circumstance.
Retracted outriggers, extended booms, and the arc of
the slue (rotation) are all factors that must be
considered before a lift can be made safely.
Load-moment indicates (LMIs) are a technological
innovation that can eliminate the potential for such
human miscalculation of a cranes lifting capacity, but
only when they are used correctly.

Crane upset from overload-FAULT TREE ANALYSIS

CRANE UPSET/
ACCIDENT

UNKNOWN
LOAD

OUTRIGGERS
NOT USED

NO LOAD
INDICATORS

EXTEND
BOOM

CHANGE
OF
RADIUS

LOWER
BOOM

AS NO SAFEGUARD EXISTS TO PREVENT UPSET

Crane upset from overload-FAULT TREE ANALYSIS

NO
ACCIDENT

KNOWN
LOAD

OVER LOAD
ALARM

OPERATOR EXAMINATION
PRIOR TO MAKING LIFT

INTERLOCK SYSTEM

LOAD
INDICATOR

To prevent boom movement

until outriggers are in place

ALL SAFEGUARDS MUST BE REMOVED BEFORE AN UPSET CAN OCCUR

Crane upset from overload-Contributory Factors

The danger from an operator estimating the
lifting capacity of a crane varies depending on
crane type.
On flatbed-mounted pedestal cranes, the
hydraulic boom is located directly behind the
truck cab, and the over-the-rear or over-the-cab
tipping load can be as much as twice the rated
capacity.
The crane can pick a load over the rear or cab
that will cause upset when the load is slued to
either side.
The LMI should be considered as a necessary aid
for all crane operators.
As rated capacity is 85% of the structural design,

Rated Loads
Load capacity will
vary depending on the
quadrant position of
the boom with respect
to the machine's
Undercarriage
Over the side
Over the drive end
of the tracks
Over the idler end
of the tracks

Rated Loads
The important point is that the rated load should be based
on the direction of minimum stability for the mounting,
unless otherwise specified.
The minimum stability condition restricts the rated load
because the crane must both raise and swing loads.
The swinging motion will cause the boom to move through
various quadrants, changing the load's effect on the
machine.
Further, it should be remembered that the rating is based
on the fact that the outriggers are fully extended.
Rated loads are based on the assumption that the crane is
in a level position (for the full 3600 of swing)

Crane upset from overload-Contributory Factors

Todays crane operator is confronted with
a number of error-provocative
circumstances that can cause upset or
boom failure.
The ability to extend the hydraulic boom
while lowering it
The choice of extending or retracting
outriggers
Soil that is unable to support the outriggers
Outriggers failure
The changing lifting capacities as the boom
is rotated to various positions
An unknown load weight

Crane upset from overload Hazard Identification and Prevention Matrix

An upset is the result unbalance caused by
gravity.
LMIs with interlocks are reliable methods of
control, and can make cranes inherently safe
lifts by ensuring that the crane maintains
the correct balance.
Most LMIs have in their safe rated capacities,
and will give warning when that specific
crane reaches 90% of rated capacity.
Balance may be achieved through outriggers
or limited load capacities.

Sling Angles

Crane upset from overload Hazard Identification and Prevention Matrix

Crane Hazards

Jib-Boom Stowage on Hydraulic Cranes

Stow = pack or store (an object) carefully and neatly in a particular place.
Stow = To store for future use

Jib-Boom Stowage on Hydraulic Cranes

The Hazard Syndrome
A jib-boom stowage system that relies upon manual pin
placement is a dormant hazard.
This hazard becomes armed when jib stowage is
attempted with the use of a pin to anchor the jib to the
side of the main hydraulic boom, as it is often misaligned
with the anchor-pin holes.
Misalignment results in the active falling-object hazard
of the jib boom falling free.
The image below show a typical jib-boom hinged
connection to the outer telescoping boom. Notice the
reliance on pins for anchor points and the absence of a
connecting pin.

Jib-Boom Stowage on Hydraulic Cranes

Peril from the Failure Mode
When the heavy (approximately 2000lbs.) jib
boom falls due to improper stowage, it may
strike someone and cause serious injury or
death.
Improper stowage is a relatively frequent
occurrence on construction sites, and a
number of lawsuits have been filed regarding
this hazard.
It is caused by the natural hazards of gravity
and foreseeable error by the user.
It is compounded by the mechanical aspect of
a system that fosters unintentional

Jib-Boom Stowage on Hydraulic Cranes Hazard Identification and Prevention Matrix

The hazard is caused by gravity.
It is manifested by a simple mechanical design defect
that erroneously relies on perfect user performance.
The main defect in the placement of the stowage pin
is that in many cases, correct placement of the pin
requires perception beyond the reasonable
expectation of human performance of human
performance, because the boom itself creates an
obstruction to viewing the pin.
Visual obstruction by the boom means the pin cannot
be adequately viewed before, during, or after stowage
to ensure proper placement and structural integrity.
On the matrix, this defect would fall under the
category of a mechanical design defect tat requires

Jib-Boom Stowage on Hydraulic Cranes Hazard Identification and Prevention Matrix

Crane Hazards

Latticework Boom Assembly/ Disassembly

Lattice = a structure consisting of strips of wood or metal crossed and fastened

together with square or diamond-shaped spaces left between, used as a
screen or fence or as a support for climbing plants.
Lattice= structure of crossed wooden or metal strips usually arranged to form a
diagonal pattern of open spaces between the strips.

Lattice Boom Assembly and Disassembly Hazard

Lattice Boom Assembly and Disassembly Hazard

CRANE ACCIDENTDSLattice Boom Assembly and Disassembly

Area must be level,
firm and large enough
to allow room to lay
out boom.
Read and understand
manufacturer's
instructions (before
assembly).
Sufficient blocking
must be available.
Proper tools available,
including ladders.

Boom
collapse
during crane
disassembly

Lattice Boom Assembly and Disassembly Hazard

Crane Boom Collapse Kills Man during Disassembling

Figure-Boom hoist assembly connected to boom butt.

A boom of lattice-type construction, usually fabricated of steel angles or tubing.

Causes of Fatalities Crushing

Caught under the truss boom

during dismantling

Caught between crane

and carriage

Lattice Boom Assembly and Disassembly Hazard

Figure : The collapsed boom and the location of the victim during the incident.

Lattice Boom Assembly and Disassembly Hazard

Follow manufacturers' specifications on boom assembly and

disassembly.
Boom must be secured against collapse when working inside.

Illustration : Alternate safer design for boom disassembly

Latticework Boom Disassembly -The Hazard Syndrome

Latticework booms are dormant hazards that
require disassembling for shortening, lengthening, or
transporting.
When the boom is lowered to a horizontal position
for disassembling and is only suspended from the
boom tip by its pendant guys, the hazard is
assembling and is only suspended from the boom tip
by its pendant lines, or stabilized by locking or
cribbing.
Collapse can also happen when the tip rests on the
ground and the midsection connection are not
supported.
When the lower pins that connect the boom sections
are the first ones knocked out by workers who
are under the boom, the hazard is active, and
the boom collapses downward upon them.

Latticework Boom Disassembly

Peril from the Failure Mode
When removing the connecting pins, an
unsupported latticework-crane boom can fall
and crush those underneath.
The gravity that causes an object to fall
makes it a natural hazard, which is
compounded by reliance on human
performance.
Mechanical hazards of faulty hinging and
boom-section connection with pins are
present during latticework boom disassembly.
The boom section displayed below can fall
when not braced properly.

Latticework Boom Assembly / Disassembly Hazard Identification and Prevention Matrix

Gravity is a natural equipment hazard that
can be eliminated by redesign of the lower
boom section.
An engineering control that would allow the
crane operator to lower the entire boom to
the ground is needed, as shown above.
The but section of the boom can then be
redesigned as discussed in the commentary.

Latticework Boom Assembly / Disassembly Hazard Identification and Prevention Matrix

Crane Hazards

Crane Operator from upset or Falling Objects

Crane Operator from upset or Falling Objects

The Hazard Syndrome
Most construction equipment, such as tractors,
road rollers, graders, scrapers, and earth movers,
protect operators with Rollover Protective
Structures (ROPS).
ROPS standards were first developed by the U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers in the 1950s, with
specifications of W2 (a structure that resists twice
the weight of itself) to with-stand structural failure
in the event of rollover, and adopted by the
Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) in the
mind-1960s.
Unfortunately, rough-terrain cranes, crawler-trackmounted cranes, and excavators wherein the

Crane Operator from upset or Falling Objects

The Hazard Syndrome
Many crane manufactures use light-weight
sheet metal for the cabs, which presents the
dormant hazard of crushing. Without a
standard for operator protection in the event
of severe cab damage, crane operators can be
in jeopardy.
Cab damage most commonly occurs from
upset or being struck by a heavy falling object.
The hazard is armed when an operator
enters the cab.
The hazard is active when the safety of the
cab is compromised by a structural failure

Crane Operator from upset or Falling Objects

Incident Photo

Location where workers

were fatally struck - they
were within 5 m of each
other

Standard mast
section

Jib

Waterproofing
blanket

Incident Photo Storyboard

(contd)
Crane top
A-frame

Operators cab

Jib

Standard mast
section

Balancing
arm

Climbing
frame

Connecting Pins

Cleat on swivel section

that connects with
climber using 40mm dia
pin

Eight high tensile Bolts connect mast to

swivel section. Bolts were removed to
swivel section

Crane Operator from upset or Falling Objects

Crane Operator from upset or Falling Objects

Peril from the Failure Mode
When rough-terrain hydraulic cranes and
track-mounted cranes upset, the cab is
crushed, usually resulting in serious injury or
death to the operator.
In some instances the cab is penetrated by a
heavy falling object, also resulting in operator
injury.
This hazard results from natural circumstances
such as overturning or falling objects and
destabilization due to gravity, but remains
unguarded by the structural / mechanical
defect of structural failure.

Crane Operator from upset or Falling Objects

Hazard Identification and Prevention Matrix

Crane Hazards

Power line Contact

Power Lines

Stay clear from power lines at least 10 feet

Table Minimum Clearance Distances

Voltage (nominal, kV, alternating current)

Minimum clearance distance (feet)

up to 50

10

over 50 to 200

15

over 200 to 350

20

over 350 to 500

25

over 500 to 750

35

over 750 to 1000

45

over 1000

(as established by the power line

owner/operator or registered professional
engineer who is a qualified person with
respect to electrical power transmission
and distribution)

Electrical Harm

PATH:
Harm is
related to
the path by
which
current
passes
through the
body.

Overhead Powerlines

The
Sad
Reality
This victim contacted an overhead power line while working from an aerial bucket.

When the crane moves to

within the booms length a
designated signal person is
required !

Map and Barricade the 30 ft. wide Danger Zone

(15 feet on each side of the powerline poles)

Power line Contact -The Hazard Syndrome

Crane power line contacts with the boom or
the hoist line have been a major source of
gruesome (horrible, dreadful) deaths
and injuries from the time that mobile cranes
have been in use.
The hazard of an overhead power line is
dormant when there is no crane has access
to intrude into the boom, hoist line, or any
other part of the crane comes into contact
with the power line and sends a current of
electricity through of crane and everybody in
contact with it.

Power line Contact -Scope

The ten-foot thin air clearances
established by OSHA and other
agencies, manufactures, and standardmaking bodies have not provided
reliable protection from this hazard.
All types of mobile and stationary
cranes within each of power lines are
vulnerable.
Any boomed equipment able to be
raised eighteen feet or more can strike
an overhead power line.

Power line Contact -Peril from the Failure Mode

Distribution power lines usually carry from 3000 to 35,000 volts of
electricity, with most lines carrying 7200 volts.
Under the right conditions, a person can die when exposed to 50
milliamps of current flow.
Because of the dangerously high voltages, the injuries and death from
power line contacts are indescribably damaging.
Damage from power line contacts occurs when current enters the body,
travels through the body, and exits the body though a ground path.
Damage from this exposure falls into categories:
exit burns, which occur where the current has entered and left the
body, charring flesh and often requiring amputation; and
ventricular fibrillation of the heart, which occurs when low current
flow electrifying the body interferes with the electrical signals that
control the heart, causing rapid or erratic heartbeat.
This stops the blood flow to the brain and can damage and death.

Power line Contact -Brief Summary of the Occurrence

The bridge-building construction site was very
confining on one side of the river, where a large
hydraulic telescoping-boom crane was located.
The crane operator had raised the long boom to a
near-vertical position in order to rotate approximately
180 degrees so as to lift another load. Attached to
the hook were two suspended cable straps. As the
boom swung past the 7200 volt power line, one of
straps brushed the powerline, causing the crane to
become momentarily electrified.
A pneumatic track drill supplied by a compressed-air
hose encased in a wire-web sheath that was draped
over one of the cranes outriggers also became
momentarily electrified. The drill-rig operator was
electrocuted and his helper was injured.

Power line Contact -Contributory Factors

The perception that power lines are open and
obvious hazards erroneously assumes that the crane
operator and working crew will avoid them.
Human-factors specialists have proclaimed for years
that two separate visual targets cannot be viewed at
the same time.
Neither the crane operator, signal person, nor those
guiding the load into its proper location can also be
viewing the boom or hoist line clearance from
a power line.
Reliance upon a single signal person is errorprovocative.
Real lift power line contacts that have become the
subject of litigation have nearly always occurred midspan, where power poles do not provide good visual

MINIMUM 10'
Distance

If Contact Occurs

Stay on the machine if possible

Warn all others to stay away
Notify power company immediately
Attempt to move away but assure line is
not connected

Bail Out Procedures

If you must get out, jump with your feet
together
Do not touch the machine
Hop or shuffle out of the area

Power line Contact

Hazard Identification and Prevention Matrix

Hazard

Failure Mode

Consequence

Relocate or bury
powerlines prior to
operation of equipment

Boom strikes
power line
Hoist line strikes power
line
Power line Contact

Conductive material
touching crane or aerial
lift strikes powerline
Aerial lift operator strikes
powerline

Engineering Control

Range limiting device

Ground Fault

Insulating and nonconductive guarding

Electrocution
Insulated link
Damage
Proximity alarm
Identify the power line
danger zone on the
ground with conspicuous
markers

Hazard

Failure Mode

Overload

Load exceeds tipping

or design limit or a
load that is not
freely suspended

Consequence
Upset
Structural Failure
Injury

Engineering Control

Load Moment Indicator

Design of object being lifted
can be freely suspended

Hazard

Failure Mode
Unintentional
movement of boom

Error Provocative
Operator Controls

Injury

Engineering Control
Control guarding

Load loss

Fail safe control design

Unintentional
Power line contact
movement of vehicle
Overload
Misactivation
Damage
Vehicle/equipment
strikes
bystander/worker

Blind Zones

Consequence

Vehicle/equipment
strikes property
Vehicle/equipment
veers off path and
upsets

Emergency stop
Controls that do not
return to neutral

User information system

Smart reverse signal
alarm (only sounds
when object is in the
Upset
active blind zone)
Closed-circuit TV
Injury
UHF near-object
Property/equipment detection with
automatic stop
damage
Travel alarm
Aerial basket cage (See
Illustration #18)

Hazard

Failure Mode

Consequence

Engineering Control
Appropriate handrails
for walkways and
stairways
Safe 3 point vertical
accessway*

Inadequate Access

Fall from elevation

Injury

Fall same level

Awkward and

Fatiguing

stressful

Access ladder and

handrails to top of crane
cab to access the AFrame
Handrails on walkway to
aerial basket and gate
on aerial basket
Alternate walkway to
tower crane
Elevator to tower crane

Improper Load

Improper loads or speeds can result

in the tipping of the crane

Improper Load

Improper Load

Shackle use
Use only the proper pin, never
replace with a bolt.

Never use a screw pin

shackle if the pin can roll
under load.

Operating Engineers National

Hazmat Program

Annual Inspections
Inspection of the hoisting
machinery must be made by a
competent person
The employer must maintain a
record of these inspections

Crane wasnt inspected

and tipped over

Cranes and Heavy Equipment

Caught-in
hazards are
often created
when working
around heavy
equipment.

Cranes and Heavy Equipment

Never place
yourself
between a piece
of heavy
equipment and
an immovable
object.

Cranes and Heavy Equipment

Never work in
the swing
radius of
rotating
equipment.

Cranes and Heavy Equipment

Always work
at a safe
distance
from
equipment.

Tools and Equipment

Caught-in
hazards exist
when workers
remove or
disable guards
on tools or
equipments.

Tools and Equipment

Never place
your hands or
body near
moving parts.

Tools and Equipment

Gloves, long
sleeve shirts,
jewelry, or
loose fitting
clothing can be
hazardous if
caught in
moving parts.

Removing Jewelry and Wearing

Gloves!

Cause?
Not wearing
gloves and not
taking off the ring.

WRONG - never work under the boom

Tools and Equipment

Never use
equipment that
is missing guards
or other
protective
devices.

CRANE ACCIDENTDS

Crane Tip over at a

library
expansion
project

CRANE ACCIDENTDS

Mobile crane
tip-over
attempting to
hoist water
tank

CRANE ACCIDENTDS

Mobile crane
tip-over
attempting to
hoist a beam

TO AVOID
ACCIDENTS
Follow
Manufacturers
Instructions while
Crane Operation.
Develop and
Implement Method
of Statement for
lifting of each
objects /
equipment's at Site.
Do Job Safety
Analysis for each
and every activities.

Planning Before Start-Up

Level the crane and ensure support surface is
firm and able to support the load
Contact power line owners and determine
precautions. Know the location and voltage of
overhead power lines.
Know the basic crane capacities, limitations,
and job site restrictions, such as the location of
power lines, unstable soil, or high winds.

Planning Before Start-Up

Make other personnel aware of
hoisting activities.
Barricade areas within swing radius.
Ensure proper maintenance and
inspections.
Determine safe areas to store
materials and place machinery.

Competent Person
The competent person must
inspect all machinery and
equipment prior to each use,
and during use, to make sure it
is in safe operating condition.
If it needs fixing, take it out of
service and dont use it until it
is fixed

Broken
Track

Load Capacity - Speed - Warnings

Make sure the crane
operator can see the:
Rated Load
Capacities
Operating Speeds
Special Hazard
Warning or
Instruction
Load Rating Chart

Safe operation

SAFETY
ACCIDENT

CHOOSE

Company Name __________________________ Job Name

__________________________ Date________
MOBILE CRANE OUTRIGGERS
The key to lifting a maximum capacity load with a mobile crane is the
outriggers.
They provide a solid platform for the crane's safe operation and
efficient use. Operators and workers within a crane's radius must
always be aware of how critical the placement and use of outriggers
are to the crane's performance. Without this awareness they may place
both themselves and the crane in peril.
Statistics show that at least 50% of crane incidents occur because the
mobile crane or outriggers are not set-up properly.

MOBILE CRANE OUTRIGGERS

Specific hazards that can cause or contribute to failure or collapse
include:
failure to extend the outriggers fully;
not extending all outriggers;
failure to get completely "off-rubber
not accounting for poor ground conditions;
failure to level the crane.

MOBILE CRANE OUTRIGGERS

Use The Correct Load Chart: The purpose of outriggers is to
improve the stability of the crane.
Accurate use of the "on-outriggers fully extended" load chart,
requires that outriggers be fully extended and they must bring the
rig completely off-rubber.
If the tires are touching the ground, then the "on-rubber" load
chart is the only one that can be used. Manufacturers do not
recommend extending only one or two of the outriggers.
If outriggers are to be used, fully extend all of them and get the
tires off the ground.

Accidents commonly occur because the operator is lifting from only

one side of the rig, with only two outriggers extended. Then, later in
the day, this same operator is asked to swing the boom to the other
side of the rig for a pick. He does this without thinking and topples
the crane.
(Note: The load charts of some manufacturers now permit partiallyextended outriggers, so always refer to the correct load chart prior to
making the lift.)

Outrigger Pads and Floats: The pads found on all crane outriggers
are designed for good ground conditions. Poor conditions reduce the
amount of load a crane can safely place on the outrigger pad.
Because of this, many crane operations require additional support or
"floats." Supplemental floats are made of substantial material and
must always be larger than the outrigger pad. These floats disperse
the weight of the crane and its load over more ground area than does
the pad. Any float or cribbing which is smaller than the pad,
actually increases the pressure placed on the ground. This increase
in pressure, particularly in poor ground conditions, can cause an
outrigger to "punch through," and bring about an accident.

Leveling: Also be aware that all floats and cribbing must be level. If the outrigger
pad is set down on an unleveled float, the outrigger pad may slide off when under
load, causing the crane to tip. Many manufacturers stipulate that the crane must be
within 1% of level before their load chart applies. In a 20-foot span this is only 2
inches off-level! Past this point, the crane can lose 15% - 20% or more of its rated
capacity. So, keep the crane on solid level footing.
Operators and workers must never take a mobile crane for granted. Plan the work-setting up the crane safely every time, for every lift!
Safety
Recommendations:___________________________________________________
_______________________________
Job Specific
Topics:____________________________________________________________
___________________________
M.S.D.S
Reviewed:_________________________________________________________
______________________________
Attended By:
TOOLBOXTOPICS.COM
__________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________

Critical Path
Longest sequence of activities in a project plan which must be completed on
time for the project to complete on due date. An activity on the critical path
cannot be started until its predecessor activity is complete; if it is delayed for
a day, the entire project will be delayed for a day unless the activity following
the delayed activity is completed a day earlier.

HazardIdentification / Prevention Matrix

Eliminate the
Hazard
Hazard

Natural
Structural/
Mechanical
Electrical
Chemical
Radiant
Energy
Biological
Artificial
Intelligence

Safety

Guard the
Hazard
Hazard

Safety

Provide a Safety
Factor
Hazard

Safety

Provide
Redundancy
Hazard

Safety

Provide
Reliability

Weed out the causes of injuries and illness

Burns
Un
g

ua
r

de
dm
ac

Cuts
la y
sep
Hor

hin
e

a z ar d
te a h
Crea
rd
a haza
Ignore
jury
r t in
repo
o
t
s
Fail

Bro
ken
too
ls

Chemic
a

Defec
ti

l spill

ve P P
E

Untrained w
or

1. Direct Cause of Injury

Strains

Fails to inspect

ker

Fails to enforce

ork

Fails to tr

w
Too much

Inadequate training
No discipline procedures
No orientation process
Inadequate training plan
No accountability policy

Lack of visionNo mission statement

Lack of time

ain

No recognition

Inadequate labeling
Outdated hazcom program

Always the harmful transfer of energy.

Kinetic, thermal, chemical, etc.
Contact with, exposure to, etc.

_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
2. Surface Causes of the Accident

Specific/unique hazardous conditions and/or unsafe actions

Produce or contribute to the accident
May exist/occur anytime, anyplace
Involve the victim and others

_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________

No recognition plan

No inspection policy

3. Root Causes of the Accident

Failure to design and/or carry out safety policies, programs,

plans, processes, procedures, practices
Exist prior to surface causes
Result in common or repeated hazards
Any way you look at it, system design is the key to effective safety. Under control of management
Failure can occur anytime, anywhere
If design is flawed, yet perfectly implemented, the system fails. If design
is perfect, yet implementation is flawed, the system fails as a
_______________________________
result of design flaws in other related processes.
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