CIF Construction Safety Month October 2023

CIF Construction Safety Month October 2023

The CIF Construction Safety Month takes place in October 2023. The theme for this year is ‘Focus on Critical Risks’ –  those activities that if not properly managed can lead to severe injuries or worse.

As crane safety on construction sites is of paramount importance, we outline the steps and guidelines that should be followed for the safe operation of cranes.

Safe Operation of Cranes

✅ Training and Certification

The crane operator should be properly trained and certified to operate the crane. Self erecting tower cranes, tower cranes and luffing tower cranes require specific training to ensure that the driver is suitably qualified to operate them.

✅ Crane Inspection

All cranes should be thoroughly inspected by the operator before each shift. These checks should include looking for any visible damage, loose bolts, worn cables, or any other damage that could affect the safe working of the crane.

✅ Crane Capacity

The operator should be familiar with the load curve data and crane capacities. The maximum heights and maximum lifts should not be exceeded and care should be exercised when approaching the maximum limits.

✅ Weather Conditions

Changes in weather conditions will affect the operation of the crane, especially at high wind speeds. The operator should follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for wind speed limits and should be aware of the wind zone area that they are working in.

Ultimately, if the crane operator believes that they are not in control of the load being lifted, they should stop operating the crane as it is unsafe to continue.

✅ Communication

Constant communication between the crane operator and banksman/signallers is essential for the safe operation of a crane. Whether via radio or hand signals, the driver and ground staff should be working together.

✅ Clear Work Areas

The area around the crane should be clear of all obstacles, especially where the loads are being lifted and laid.

✅ Proper Rigging and Slinging

All loads should be properly rigged and secured with the appropriate slings and rigging equipment and crane lifting accessories should be inspected before use.

✅ Out of Service

When crane operations cease the trolley and hook must be returned to a safe position. It is important that crane accessories, and chains, must not be left suspended from the hook.

✅ Regular Inspections

The crane should be inspected as per the manufacturer’s recommendations and the required repairs and maintenance should be carried out.

✅ Continuous Learning

Crane drivers, banksmen, and relevant construction personnel should stay up to date on advancements in health and safety regulations and best practices for crane operation.

Safety should always be the top priority when operating a crane on construction sites and Mantis Cranes is committed to playing its part in this through regular servicing and maintenance of all lifting equipment and accessories, both before delivery to site and during the duration of the hire.  We also ensure that all Mantis Engineers have completed the required safety training courses and are regularly updated on the latest health and safety developments.

Mantis Cranes are a leading crane hire company, and supply self-erecting tower cranes, tower cranes, luffing tower cranes, and construction hoists. We are established throughout the UK and Ireland. For information on hiring or buying cranes and crane attachments, email us on info@mantiscranes.co.uk or info@mantiscranes.ie  or visit  www.mantiscranesgroup.com