April 2021

Crane Work Area Safety

The success of any construction project relies on safety. Properly-trained workers and operators, clear and constant communication, and safety precautions are key to a safe and effective project.
Crane work area safety

With many construction loads exceeding 100 tons and suspended 200 feet in the air, experienced operators are an absolute must for any heavy lifting project. Without proper lift engineering, the operator, ground crew, load, and machinery itself can be compromised. Taking the time to lay the foundation for a safe and successful project allows for a smooth and timely process. In fact, creating a safe construction environment happens well before the load is even off the ground.

Extensive Safety Training

In any construction project, having a properly trained rigging crew is invaluable. Operators should feel confident with their machinery and receive ongoing training as newer equipment becomes available. Riggers, operators, and other personnel should stay up-to-date with the most current safety protocols to ensure that they keep themselves, their coworkers, and the community as safe as possible while performing their duties.

Communication is Key

Construction site safety relies on constant and clear communication. Even a brief lapse in attention or small communication failure could jeopardize the safety of the project. Focus and communication are especially critical at certain pinch-points, such as when a load is transported from one place to another. A properly-trained rigging crew will use hand signals to communicate with the crane operator and head off or address any concerns as soon as they arise.

Preparation Means Safety

As much as possible, the construction crew should take certain precautions to ensure the safety of each operation. Assessing the site for potential hazards, both in general and before, during, and after moving each load, should be second-nature to every crew member. Other precautions, such as avoiding long shirt sleeves, oversized sweatshirts, or baggy pants, securing long hair, and wearing well-fitted gloves, should also be taken to keep everyone safe.

NessCampbell Crane + Rigging employs regionally-based safety professionals throughout Washington and Oregon to ensure that each project is completed safely and effectively. Call our Portland office today at (503) 283-3111 to learn more.