Massive equipment that requires movement from one location to another requires a crane. In order to operate a crane, it takes the user to obtain a certification and go through an extensive training course. Once the operator has the certificate, safety and learning do not stop there. Every situation is different and requires skill, knowledge, and common sense. Crane safety training teaches the basics in operation and all safety priorities. When it comes to cranes, there is no room for human error. The primaries taught in crane safety training are as follows:
Hand signals;
Crane operator training course;
Rigging;
Fall protection.
The Importance of Hand Signals
When operating a crane, whether an overhead crane or a rolling machine, it is difficult to see around the corners and almost impossible to hear instructions. The crane operator must know all the hand signals and what they mean. It takes no less than three people to safely handle a job where a crane is needed. One operates the crane while watching the person on the ground using hand signals. This tells the operator which direction to move the boom. The third person is called the rigger, and they connect the hooks, shackles, or whatever is used to connect to whatever is getting moved around.
About the Crane Operator Training Course
The course is mandatory through OSHA and teaches the operator all about the different types of cranes. There are articulating, tower, mobile, and overhead cranes. The value of this course is vital to the job because, without it, people can get hurt or even killed. Accidents are always lurking, but these courses eliminate most of the problems. It teaches how to operate the equipment and machinery safely, efficiently, and effectively. The course will also teach the basics of troubleshooting should problems arise.
Rigging Training
Even though the operator is the one at the controls and is not hands-on to connect to the equipment getting moved, they still have to take part in the rigging course. They must know how to do everyone's job so they can move the heaviest of equipment with ease and confidence. Rigging consists of knowing how to connect the boom to the equipment without being the cause of an accident. Learning the center of gravity is a must. They must also learn how to latch the hooks or shackles securely. Failure to do so may cause severe injury, the loss of expensive equipment, and even death.
Fall Protection
Falls are the number one cause of injury in the workplace. OSHA requires all employees reaching the heights of six feet and over to be strapped, tied down, and secured to a wall, immovable object, or structure. A person can get killed by a fall from six feet if they land the wrong way. The chances increase the higher up the worker climbs. Inside the course, they teach the user how to properly latch the lanyards and fall protection equipment to increase survival.