OSHA Construction · Part 7
Cranes and Rigging, and Motor Vehicles on Site
The hazards of cranes, derricks and hoists and the duties of a competent person, and the rules for site vehicles, brakes, alarms, rollover protection and signs, signals and barricades.
Pages in this chapter (1 of 2)
7.1 Cranes and Rigging
Cranes lift and lower loads and move them sideways. This part covers cranes and derricks, helicopters, base mounted drum hoists, overhead hoists, conveyors and aerial lifts, which the construction standard treats in its subpart on cranes, derricks, hoists, elevators and conveyors.
Competent person
A competent person is capable of identifying working conditions that are unsanitary, hazardous or dangerous to workers, and is authorised to take prompt corrective action to remove them.
Crane parts and terms
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Boom | An inclined member that supports the hoisting tackle. |
| Jib | An extension attached to the boom point that gives added length. |
| Block | Pulleys in a frame with a hook, eye and strap. |
| Drum | The spool around which cable is wound to raise and lower loads. |
| Pendants | Fixed wire ropes that support the boom. |
| Outriggers | Support members on the carrier frame that level and stabilise the crane. |
| Counterweight | Weights that balance loads and give stability. |
| Boom angle indicator | A device that shows the angle of the boom to the horizontal. |
| Boom stops | A device that limits the highest angle of the boom. |
| Radius | The horizontal distance from the centre of rotation to the centre of the load. |
| Superstructure | The rotating frame, boom and operating equipment. |
| Deck | The revolving turntable bed. |
Common crane hazards
- improper load rating, or an overloaded crane
- excessive speed
- no hand signals
- inadequate inspection and maintenance
- unguarded moving parts and an unguarded swing radius
- working too close to power lines
- a faulty exhaust system and shattered windows
- no steps or guardrailed walkways
- no boom angle indicator
- not using outriggers
Safe practice
- Only qualified, trained and authorised people operate cranes.
- Know the weight of the load and the crane's rated capacity at the working radius.
- Use hand signals or radio signals from a designated signaller.
- Inspect the crane and the rigging before each shift.
- Fully extend and set the outriggers on firm ground.
- Never let anyone stand or work under a suspended load.
Page 1 of 2 in this chapter · page 20 of 29 in the book
A study aid, not published or endorsed by IOSH or OSHA. Laws and limits differ between countries.