Safety Rules for Operating Lifting Cranes

In this article, we will outline the safety rules for operating lifting cranes. We will look at the key aspects that must be taken into account when working with this type of equipment. The material will be useful for crane operators, engineers, project managers, and anyone responsible for carrying out work on a construction site.

Basic Safety Rules for Operating Lifting Cranes

Compliance with safety procedures when working with lifting equipment helps prevent accidents and equipment damage. Special attention should be given to the electric hoist. Key rules to follow:

1. Do not operate with a load above people.
2. Before starting work with the hoist, check the function of its brakes and switch.
3. Do not leave a load lifted by the hoist unattended.
4. Never exceed the rated lifting capacity of the device.
5. Do not lift loads at an angle — this may damage the rope guide of the hoist or cause the rope to snap.
6. Monitor the condition of the lifting rope and replace it in a timely manner, checking the reliability of fastening at both ends.
7. After replacing or repairing the rope, as well as after replacing the device, carry out motor “phasing” and adjust the limit switch for the extreme lower and upper positions of the lifting hook.
8. If the maximum allowable rotor travel of the electric motor is reached during hoist operation, the brake must be adjusted.
9. During servicing or repair, make sure that:
   • the beam with the lifting device is stationary;
   • there is no load on the hook;
   • the electric hoist is disconnected from the power supply.
10. Regularly check the integrity of the lifting hook — ensure there are no cracks or deformations. Also, monitor the proper functioning of the safety latch to prevent unexpected load drops during movement.
11. Constantly check screw connections to prevent self-loosening.
12. Verify that the electric hoist has reliable protective grounding connected to the power cable, transformer, and electric motor.
13. Install buffers at the ends of the hoist’s monorail track.

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Safety Rules for Operating Tower Cranes

Only adults who have completed specialized operator courses and obtained certification from a qualification commission with the participation of a State Labor Safety Inspector are permitted to operate a tower crane. The crane operator must also undergo a medical examination and receive confirmation of having no medical restrictions.

To minimize risks for workers and others, it is necessary to:

1. Test the crane before starting operations under the supervision and guidance of engineering and technical personnel.
2. Ensure that no unauthorized persons are present in the work area.
3. Strictly observe the maximum permissible lifting capacity of the tower crane.
4. Use warning signals — sound or visual alarms, as well as safety signs such as “No Entry,” “Danger Zone,” and “Do Not Stand Under Load.”
5. Carry out regular maintenance of the crane and periodic safety inspections.

Prohibited:

1. Operating a crane or crane tracks that are faulty.
2. Performing repairs independently.
3. Using the crane without a positive decision from a technical inspector.
4. Working in conditions of limited visibility.
5. Operating in very strong winds.
6. Overloading the machine.
7. Lifting or pulling loads that are stuck or frozen to the ground.
8. Using the crane to lift people.

These are only some of the key safety rules for operating cranes. Detailed occupational safety regulations for lifting cranes, hoisting devices, and related equipment can be found on the official websites of national labor and safety authorities in each country.

In addition, it is essential to follow the operating manuals provided by the equipment manufacturers. It is also important to comply with work execution plans and construction organization projects developed with consideration of local conditions and site density.

Compliance with lifting equipment operating rules not only ensures the safety of workers and others but also increases the efficiency of work processes. Preventive measures and monitoring of the equipment’s technical condition reduce the risk of industrial accidents, help avoid downtime, and contribute to longer service life. Workplace safety is the foundation of a company’s successful operation.

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