From installing commercial signs to assisting with construction, cranes can help businesses with heavy lifting to simplify big projects. But while this heavy-duty equipment is incredibly beneficial, it is important to operate safely. To protect your company’s property and prevent injury, here are five safety tips to keep in mind when you’re planning on operating a crane.

5 Ways to Improve Crane Safety

1. Consider Certification

In Kentucky, licensing is not required to operate a crane. Still, for safety purposes, it’s recommended that this equipment is only used by trained professionals. If no one on your team is familiar with using the device, there are comprehensive training courses available that can certify employees for safe operation.

2. Inspect Equipment Before Use  

Small issues with the equipment—as well as the load—can turn into big problems once you start work. As such, you should always review the quality of the crane before beginning a project. For example, you’ll want to make sure the vehicle has enough gas, oil, and other essential fluids to run reliably. Rigging and other mechanical components should also be intact to ensure the load will be held securely.

3. Practice Unfamiliar Controls

Before you load the crane with whatever you need to lift—such as steel beams or commercial signs—you’ll want to make sure you are confident on how to use the controls. If you’re using new or rented equipment, take time to review all the controls and practice using them until you feel more familiar.

4. Maintain a Clear Work Site

When operating any type of construction equipment, it’s critical that no unessential personnel or resources are crowding the work area. If rigging comes loose, heavy commercial signs or construction materials can come crashing down, causing injury and property damage. With fewer people in the work site, these incidents will be less likely to result in serious damages.  

5. Don’t Rush the Project

While you may be eager to complete a project as soon as possible, you should never rush through the crane operation process. To reduce the risk of accidents, it is important that you operate the equipment through slow and calculated movements. As such, you should reserve ample time in your schedule to complete all crane-related tasks.

If you’re in need of reliable crane rental, turn to Quality Signs & Service in Burlington, KY. Specializing in commercial sign installation and repairs for over three decades, this company is backed with high-quality cranes that can take on the toughest jobs. In addition to their signage services, this provider also offers affordable crane rental services to local businesses in the Boone County region. Visit this company online to learn more about their custom business signs, crane rental capabilities, and pole light and parking lot light maintenance services. For estimates or service requests, call (859) 525-9966.