Mobile crane hire is an essential service for businesses that don't need or want to purchase a crane for use throughout the year. Before you press ahead with your hire agreement, it's worth focusing on some safety considerations.
Make sure your employees meet minimum competency standards
In order for your employees to meet the minimum competency standards, they must:
- Have relevant training in the crane's basic operating procedures.
- Understand how to load the crane to reduce the risk of slipping.
- Know how to inspect for required maintenance at appropriate intervals if you're aiming for an extended hire period.
If your employees don't meet such standards, it's important to provide them with relevant training before the hire period begins.
Minimise electrical hazard risks before the hire agreement begins
Electrical hazards are most likely to occur when a metal element of your crane accidentally comes into contact with a power source, like overhead electricity lines. If you're aware that overhead electricity lines are in the vicinity, make sure the crane's operator is aware of where they are, and plan your activities carefully to avoid them. It's important to know that it isn't just the crane's operator who's at risk when mobile cranes come into contact with electrical lines. Those in the immediate vicinity are, too, so you may want to form a risk-assessment plan that prevents unnecessary personnel from accessing certain areas.
Calculate your loads before selecting your crane type
Understanding and calculating your loads before selecting a crane will prevent yours from toppling over. You should never overload the boom, as this can result in the crane falling over. Additionally, if there are logistical barriers that could result in you sideloading the boom, consider hiring additional equipment to reduce the risk of this happening.
Appoint a supervisor to oversee safe operations
The person who is operating the machine you hire shouldn't be in sole charge of making sure your work area is safe. While it's reasonable to expect them to operate the crane safely, they can only do so when there's an extra set of eyes overseeing the safe operation of the crane's management. Appoint someone to adjust risks as your project progresses, and ensure they let other employees know when the crane is in operation. Part of their duties should involve instructing personnel to not cross into the operating field. The individual using the crane may struggle to see people walking under it, whereas someone standing at a reasonable distance won't.
Contact a mobile crane hire company for additional advice.
