Essential Safety Tips for Operating Crane Vehicles

In many industries, the operation of crane vehicles is hugely beneficial. These powerful machines play an important role in facilitating the lifting and carrying of heavy materials with precision and efficiency. However, incorrect use can result in significant consequences such as the crane collapsing or the load falling. Ensuring safe lifting operations at all times is crucial. In the following article, we will share the essential safety tips for operating crane vehicles, in the hope that when you purchase or hire a crane vehicle, operations are carried out as smoothly as possible. 

Inspection Checks

Before carrying out any lifting operation on a crane vehicle, inspection checks must be performed. Operators should inspect the crane vehicle thoroughly, ensuring all components are in good working order. This includes checking hydraulic systems, cables, hooks and control mechanisms. Any signs of wear, damage or malfunction should be addressed immediately. Unnoticed faults can lead to serious accidents during operation.

Proper Training 

Operating a crane vehicle requires specialised skills and knowledge. Employees should ensure crane operators are adequately trained and hold the necessary certifications. Ongoing training will help crane operators to stay updated on the latest technology, safety protocols and best practices in crane operations.

Understand Manufacturer Guidelines

One of the biggest causes of crane-related accidents is failing to comply with manufacturer guidelines. For example, exceeding the machine’s load capacity. Crane operators must have a clear understanding of the crane’s load capacity limits to prevent overloading and causing damage. Therefore, it’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines, calculate loads accurately and communicate effectively with spotters as well as other personnel involved for safe lifting operations.

Carry Out A Risk Assessment

Before any lifting operations, a comprehensive risk assessment must also be carried out. This involves identifying potential hazards, establishing a clear communication protocol, recording inspection checks and putting supervision in place. Carrying out a risk assessment can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and ensure a smooth workflow on-site. 

Use The Right Type Of Crane

There are many different types of crane vehicles on the market. Make sure to use the right type of crane for your task. Some cranes have different specifications, features and load capacities. For instance, a pole erection unit is specially designed for replacing old telegraph poles with new ones, not for lifting and carrying building materials. 

Hire A Crane Vehicle From ND Brown 

If you work in an industry that requires the operation of crane vehicles including construction, utility or civil engineering, ND Brown is a commercial vehicle hiring specialist with depots across the nation, these include depots in Manchester, Birmingham, London, Scotland and Belfast. Amongst our large fleet of commercial vehicles, we have a range of crane vehicles available for hire. These include 7.2/7.5 tonne street lighting and 12 tonne pole erection units to 18 tonne dropside with rear-mounted crane and 26 tonne builders merchant vehicles to suit an extensive amount of applications. All of our vehicles are checked thoroughly and serviced by our team before delivery. 

To arrange short or long-term hire of one of our crane vehicles, please contact us and a member of our team will be in touch with you.