A Contractor’s Guide to Prevent Crane Accidents

Cranes are large machines that provide valuable help to construction employees in lifting heavy equipment and materials. However, these machines can also cause devastating damage, severe injuries, and even death. Studies show that about 60 percent of all construction accidents could have been prevented if contractors have conducted an improved construction planning. If you are a construction project contractor or administrator, you should be familiar with the common causes and types of crane accidents such as:


• Crane collapses or failure – These are often caused by hydraulic mechanism failures and sometimes by metal fatigue.

• Inadequate lifts – Insufficient machine inspections usually cause these situations.

• Inadequate fall protection for elevated workers – In any construction site, there should be safety nets that will serve as protection for elevated employees.

• Falling debris accidents – There should be a firm regulation ensuring that everyone wears a hardhat within the construction area.

• Lack of warning signs around danger zones – Some employees may be unaware of dangerous areas and equipment. Administrators should post proper warnings and notices in visible areas to prevent accidents.

• Electrocution – This occurs when crane booms hit power lines or electric generators. Contractors should make sure the working area is away from such dangers.

• Operator negligence and fault – Operators who lack expertise and experience often cause crane accidents.

Knowing these causes, you can now map out a plan to reduce the risks of crane and other construction accidents in the site. Remember that you will be held responsible for any injuries and damages that your employees will acquire when they are at work. The following are some guidelines that you should think about if you want to make the construction site a safer place for all.

• Consider if the weather is fit for crane operations. Rainy and snowy weather may obstruct the view of crane operators.

• Secure loads before lifting. Make sure that ropes or chains are tightly secured to prevent falling debris.

• Ensure that the equipment underwent maintenance. This is especially important for cranes and machines that are often used and devices that perform crucial construction work.

• Crane design, materials and construction should pass the standards of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

Once you have taken necessary actions to handle these factors, crane accidents will less likely happen in your construction site. The OSHA presents guides for employers and contractors to avoid crane and other types of construction accidents.