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Crane services are essential to construction, but an average of 71 deaths occur each year from accidents involving cranes, hoists, and derricks, according to OSHA.gov. That’s why it’s so important to teach operators the ins and outs of this massive equipment. Unfortunately, misconceptions about crane safety put workers and the general public at risk. If you’re paying for crane service, make sure your crew knows these assumptions are false.

3 Misconceptions About Cranes That Put Everyone at Risk

1. Daily Inspections Aren’t Necessary

Inspecting your site’s crane each day before use is the easiest way to avoid accidents, but not every company follows the OSHA guideline that mandates this task. Just because the crane worked yesterday doesn’t mean it will operate without error today. Perform a visual inspection, looking for loose or damaged components. Then, run up the hoist, listen for unusual sounds, and conduct a quick test of the controls.

2. Safety Features Prevent Cranes From Overloading

crane servicesIt’s true that cranes come with built-in safety features, but these don’t involve the entire crane, only certain parts. Plus, the equipment is attached to a building, which might not meet safety expectations. Optional load-checking devices are worth the small investment to keep construction sites safe.

3. It’s Safe to Work Under a Load Because Hoists Have Secondary Brakes

While all hoists are required to have primary and secondary braking systems, common sense should still warn workers not to stand beneath a loaded hoist. Different manufacturers use various types of brakes, and regenerative secondary brakes don’t hold loads if primary brakes fail. They lower them at a normal operating speed, which could significantly harm anyone standing underneath.

 

When it comes to crane safety, hiring an experienced company is imperative to the success of your project. If you need demolition, building relocation, equipment transportation, or other crane services, A&M Crane and Rigging in High Point, NC, has six heavy-duty, full-powered cranes and rigging accessories to complete the job safely and efficiently. Call (336) 889-6000 to get an estimate today, or visit their website to learn more.

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