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Thursday, December 26, 2013

Safety Manual For Overhead Crane Operator Certification

By Harriett Crosby


Performing crane operation is very important and comes with great responsibilities. To acquire an Overhead Crane Operator Certification there are several rules to be obeyed and responsibilities to be accepted. These rules are just an overview of what is required of an operator for safety issues. However one should be aware that every hoisting machine has slightly different operations manual that must be adhered to as per the manufacturer.

To qualify to operate a crane minimum level has to be passed. The person must have corrected vision just like that required for getting a valid driver's license. The individual should be able to effectively use the four limbs and be of adequate height to see the happenings in the working area. He should be well coordinated in eyes, hands and feet and be free of any convulsive disorders or unconsciousness episodes. The ability to understand signs and labels is a must and all these factors should be examined every 3 years.

Every person intent on operating hoisting machine must be properly trained and tested. After the physical tests have been passed, the individual has to be thoroughly trained on running the machine safely and in most conditions. Only after this can he be issued a permit to operate the hoisting machine. This permit must be carried on the person all times of duty.

The trainees undergo a vast array of training including understanding the capacities of cranes and load attachments. The operating purpose of every control has to be learnt and their limit of operation understood well. The individual must know how to perform daily checks on this hoisting machine before starting work. He should well understand the sequences of hydraulic, pneumatic and electrical start-up. The start up and shutdown procedures must be properly understood including emergency shutdown procedures. The signals for hand, radio and telephone must be learnt so as to be effective in communication while operating this hoisting machine.

One must be aware of personal protective equipment to use when operating a crane. Since it lifts loads for above 5 feet, it requires head protection. An approved harness and lanyard must be worn or any fall arresting appliance should be worn as per the safety standards.

Before every shift starts, the hoisting machine operator must go through a visual test and any defect has to be immediately reported to the supervisor. One has to check the hoisting limits on the drum, if less than 3 wraps then this must be reported for further action. In case of a power failure one must put all controllers in the off position.

Before leaving a crane unattended, any attached load must be landed. The controller has to be in the off position before leaving. Ensure all controllers are in off state before switching off the main switch at any time.

Always respond to all signals from the one directing from the ground. This can only be ignored in emergency stop signals from other employees around. Never carry any load over a person at any time. Overhead Crane Operator Certification requires the operator to be able to do inspections at his level on a regular basis to avoid accidents or faults. Preventive maintenance should be done regularly for the safety of the operator and those below and give the machine a longer life.




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