814 Heavy Equipment Safety

Unexpected Electrical Shock

If heavy equipment, such as cranes, excavators, or boom lifts, comes into contact with live power lines, it can result in a deadly electrical current passing through the equipment and anyone in contact with it.

Operators should establish exclusion zones or barriers to prevent heavy equipment from coming within a safe distance of power lines. They should also coordinate with local utility companies to de-energize or relocate power lines when necessary.

Failure of Lifting/Operational Failures

Lifting heavy loads with cranes and other heavy equipment can pose various hazards that need to be carefully managed. Below are some of the hazards associated with crane lifting:

• Overloading: One of the primary hazards is overloading the crane. Exceeding the crane's load capacity can lead to structural failures, causing the crane to collapse or tip over, potentially resulting in severe injuries or fatalities.
• Stability Issues: Cranes must be set up on stable ground or properly stabilized using outriggers or counterweights. Failure to ensure stability can cause the crane to become unbalanced, leading to tipping or toppling over.

• Falling Objects: When lifting heavy loads, there is a risk of objects or materials falling from the crane. These falling objects can injure workers on the ground or cause damage to property or nearby structures.
• Contact with Power Lines: Crane operators must be cautious about overhead power lines. Coming into contact with live power lines can result in electrocution hazards for the crane operator and those working in the vicinity.
• Human Error: Miscommunication, operator error, lack of training, or inadequate supervision can lead to accidents during crane lifting operations. It is essential to have skilled and competent operators who are trained in safe lifting practices.
• Environmental Factors: Adverse weather conditions, such as high winds, rain, or snow, can significantly affect the stability and safe operation of cranes. It is important to assess weather conditions and take appropriate precautions to prevent accidents.
• Inadequate Rigging: Improper rigging of the load can lead to load instability, slippage, or failure of lifting accessories like slings, chains, or hooks. This can result in dropped loads or unexpected movements that can cause injuries or damage.
• Lack of Communication and Signals: Clear communication between the crane operator and the signal person or other personnel involved in the lifting operation is crucial. Failure to establish effective communication and follow proper signals can lead to accidents or unsafe maneuvers.

To mitigate these hazards, it is essential to follow strict safety protocols, conduct regular equipment inspections and maintenance, provide adequate training to operators and riggers, and adhere to industry standards and guidelines for crane lifting operations.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.