Crane Safety

In 2003, 34 workers died from crane accidents, according to the Bureau of Labor Services.

Crane safety rules:

• Don't operate cranes unless you are designated as a "qualified operator" to do so through your supervisor
• Don’t lift more than rated load
• Don’t operate with twisted, kinked, or damaged rope/chain
• Don’t lift people or loads over people
• Don’t operate hoist when load is not centered under hoist
• Don’t operate unless travel limit devices function—Test each shift
• Don’t operate wire rope hoist if rope is not seated in grooves
• Don’t permit lower hook block to contact hoist frame or chain container
• Do inspect equipment daily (i.e. hoists, chains, slings, etc.)
• Do replace damaged or malfunctioning hook latch
• Do keep wire rope/load chain well oiled
• Do read ANSI standard B30.16 for hoist operating, maintenance and parts.

Crane Operators must be designated as "qualified operators". This is done using the training checklist in Attachment A of MATC's Crane Safety Program and must be completed by an existing qualified operator and the new operator's supervisor. The EH&S office maintains a copy of all completed training checklists.

Inspections - Crane inspections (daily, monthly and annually) are to be performed per manufacturer requirements and the MATC Crane Safety Program, documented and records kept within each program area for 3 years:  Note that frequency & documentation requirements vary depending on equipment, time and staff qualifications.

Further Information

Please post the Crane Safety Rules at the operator's controls of each crane in your area.

Click to view MATC's Crane Safety Program.

Questions? Contact Environmental Health & Safety