Types of Cranes & Critical Lifts

Welcome back, let's Build Smart & Build Safe! This week, we're tackling a safety topic that involves some of the largest and most powerful equipment on any job site: Cranes & Rigging.

The safe operation of a crane is a complex task that relies on pre-planning, clear communication, and a deep understanding of the equipment's capabilities. The first step is knowing the basics.

Types of Cranes on a Job Site

While there are many types, you'll most commonly see:

• Mobile Cranes: Mounted on a wheeled or tracked chassis, these cranes are flexible and can be moved around the job site. They are a common sight in commercial and residential construction.

• Tower Cranes: These massive cranes are fixed in place and rise to great heights, making them essential for high-rise buildings and large-scale projects.

• Overhead Cranes: Often found in warehouses or fabrication shops, these cranes run on a rail system and are used to move heavy materials within a specific area.

Understanding a "Critical Lift"

Not all lifts are the same. A critical lift is an operation that carries an elevated risk and requires a specific, detailed plan before it can be executed. A lift is considered "critical" if it:

• Exceeds 75% of the crane's rated load capacity.

• Involves lifting over occupied structures or public areas.

• Requires the use of multiple cranes to lift a single load.

• Involves a load with unique handling challenges (e.g., shape, fragility).

A critical lift demands meticulous planning, a pre-lift meeting, and strict adherence to the plan. It's a reminder that a crane's capacity is not a suggestion, but a limit.

Tomorrow, we'll dive into the fundamentals of basic rigging and the importance of a thorough inspection.

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-The Safety Man