Top 10 Tips For Mobile Crane Safety

Mobile cranes are fantastic movers of heavy materials in congested and frequently changing work sites. If operated properly they are one of the best pieces of heavy equipment in construction. With this being said, there are certain dangers and pitfalls leading many operators to become unstuck.

As mentioned, mobile cranes can be a hazard in the wrong hands. A mistake or not paying attention to what you’re doing could not only be costly but dangerous.

To ensure that our cranes are kept in excellent working order and that your mobile crane operation runs smoothly and safely, here are 10 tips to take note of.

1. Always check ground conditions before any lift operation is started. A crane is as good as the ground it is stood on – weather, such as ice or rain can change ground conditions quite quickly, making jobs inefficient or dangerous.
2. Take note of any overhead hazards, particularly when you will be operating the crane close to buildings or in areas where there are power lines.
3. Be observant of everything that is happening on the site around you, from personnel to other works taking place.
4. Before starting the crane, double check fuel and other fluids that may need to be replenished.
5. You should also do a full inspection of the crane before each use – checking for any mechanical, electrical, structural or hydraulic issues.
6. Ensure that the correct pads and cribbing are used for the lift operation to avoid outrigger fail or a sink.
7. If something doesn’t feel right during a lift; stop and reassess the situation, is there a safer way to do the task?
8. Never override the computer in a mobile crane.
9. Ensure you have carefully read and understood the load charts for a mobile crane before you use it.
10. Never use a mobile phone whilst operating a mobile crane. You wouldn’t use a phone whilst driving on a car – it’s the same thing.

If you would like to read the full article head on over to the Altida website.