Steps to Reduce Construction Crane Accidents

Construction crane accidents cause workplace injuries and even death to crane operators, workers on the job site, and even people near by. Some crane accidents are the result of faulty equipment or inadequately maintaining the cranes, but the majority of crane accidents are caused by human errors. Here's how to prevent crane accidents:

Inspect the Crane's Operating Functions Daily: make sure all crane components are working as they should with a crane inspection. If a crane is used beyond limits, components may become damaged and can lead to crane failure and accidents.

Identify Risks and Control Hazards: before beginning work, always identify any potential risks on the job site and take steps to eliminate or control them before and during crane operation.

Create and Communicate a Plan: when risks are identified, hazards reviewed and eliminated or controlled, come up with a plan for the job. Share the hazards and controls for the job, remind all workers of safe practices, and ensure everyone is aware of his or her responsibilities for the job.

Be Aware of Grounds: always know the conditions of the ground the crane is sitting on and adjust the use of crane accordingly. Load weights and soil types play important roles in maintaining a safe work environment.

Barricade The Work Area: make sure the area the crane will be working in is barricaded off so people do not wander into the work zone.

Stay Alert: many crane accidents are a result of losing focus while operating the crane or working near the equipment. Always follow the work plan created and communicated among workers, and keep your mind on the task at hand to minimize crane accidents and injuries.




Lever & Stolzenberg, LLP is located in White Plains, New York and serves clients throughout the state, including New York City's five boroughs (The Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan and Staten Island) as well as Westchester County, Rockland County and Long Island. 

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