Are there any excavations, underground structures or utilities nearby that could affect the stability of the ground? If so, their potential effect on the crane operations must be evaluated and modifications made as necessary.The ground must be level to within the crane manufacturer’s specifications and able to resist the forces imposed by the crane and load weights. Check the grade and the soil’s bearing capacity where the crane will travel and be set up.Lift plans should be reviewed by all members of the team expected to execute the lift, including, but not limited to, crane operators, riggers, signal persons, site supervisors and lift directors. These lifts are commonly referred to as “critical lifts.” Such lifts might include loads that are expensive or difficult to replace, loads that exceed a predetermined percentage of the rated capacity chart or lifts for which multiple cranes are attached to a single load. While verbal plans might be sufficient for some lifts, more complex lifts should have written plans.Ĭertain lifts may require additional planning or precautions due to either the small margin of error or the possibility of serious consequences of any mistake during the lift. At a minimum, the plan should consider the weight of the load, the crane’s boom length and the radius where the load will be placed. Whether the load is only a few hundred pounds or many thousands of pounds, proper planning is essential to help ensure that the work gets completed safely, without incident.īecause every situation can be unique, a lift plan should be created anytime a crane lifts or moves a load. What controls can be implemented to mitigate the risks involved?.What are the possible consequences if something goes wrong?.What is the likelihood that something will go wrong?.What can go wrong or interfere with this outcome?.

Crane safety includes both basic and advanced planning as well as continuous monitoring of changing site conditions.įollowing are five key questions to consider as you develop a lift plan. Cranes also can be the most dangerous without proper training, preparation and management. The safety of crane operations depend on a team approach, careful lift planning and continued training to stay current with industry rules and regulations.Ĭranes can be the most expensive and productive pieces of equipment at a construction site. Experience alone may not be enough to operate cranes safely and in compliance with applicable regulations and standards. Navigating Your Business Through COVID-19Īs construction projects become more complex and the demand for lifting larger loads grows, the size of cranes and the complexity of lifts increases.

Crane critical lift plan