Tag Archives: crane services

Who Is Most at Risk When Working Around Cranes?

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Unfortunately, crane-related injuries often result in fatalities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), an average of 42 deaths per year happen from crane-related accidents.

If you just started working with cranes, or you are looking to rent a crane from crane rentals, you must be wondering who is at the highest risk when working with cranes, right? Well, the truth is that anyone without proper training can be a victim.

Crane accidents, like other industrial occurrences, are often the result of operator error. Operator errors occur for a variety of causes, including inadequate training, distraction, exhaustion, and, in severe cases, drunkenness from drugs and alcohol.

This puts everyone on the site in significant danger.

Common risks

There are plenty of risks that come when working with cranes. The most common ones are:

Electrocution

All employees, including the operator, are accountable for identifying electrical dangers. Crane booms may come into touch with overhead electrical lines due to their height.

When this occurs, the electrical current can travel along the boom, into the material line, and through the tagline before passing directly through the worker securing the tagline.

One of the most critical safety precautions crane operators can take is to have local utility personnel mark off overhead lines with safety flags. This increases crane operators’ vision and hazard awareness.

Employers must also maintain a safe distance between the crane’s operational location and any electrical wires.

To be on the safe side, you should handle cranes with a minimum of 10 feet of clearance from electrical lines. This distance includes the fully extended load.

Falling loads

Most people envision crane accidents as a big cargo being dropped from the crane’s greatest height. This is a real threat associated with crane operations that all worksite managers must be aware of.

Falling loads occur for a variety of reasons. To begin, if the load is not properly fixed or fastened to the crane’s load line, it may slip.

If the load is not properly balanced, it can shift the machine’s center of gravity, resulting in tipping, which puts everyone on the site in danger.

Another potential risk arises when the principal load line or a tagline is disrupted. Without the entire support of an undamaged cable, the load becomes unstable, and one or more lines may finally give way and release the weight.

Two-blocking can occur when the operator does not allow for enough slack when extending the boom. This generates extra tension in a cable, causing the load to snap off.

Weather conditions are also an important consideration for operators. When cranes operate in severe environments, loads that are not properly fastened with taglines may become unstable owing to wind force and unrestrained swinging.

Finally, falling loads might occur when the load exceeds the crane’s design capability. Riggers must follow OSHA crane rules by first determining the load’s weight and capacity, then properly rigging and shackling it.

Operators are also responsible for maintaining smooth control of the weight to prevent it from falling.

To minimize the chances of this accident happening on your site, take your time and only hire experienced crane operators who know what they are doing.

Struck by accidents

The crane’s swinging movements increase the chance of being struck by an object. When the crane is raising or transferring a load, an unprepared worker could be injured by swinging pieces.

According to BLS data, 52% of the fatalities happen as a result of struck-by occurrences. Nearly 27% of these fatalities occur when a worker is struck by a load that fell from a moving crane.

To prevent this accident, be ultra-cautious of the operator you hire. You also should ensure that you train everyone to be more cautious when carrying out their activities beneath the crane.

Caught between hazards

Another construction incident occurs when workers are caught in or between dangers. In crane operations, caught-in/between accidents occur when a worker is physically pinned or compressed by the crane’s swinging superstructure or crushed by its moving elements.

Every piece of construction equipment, from a basic skid steer loader to a big industrial crane, contains moving elements, which produce pinch points.

The most critical thing a construction business can do to reduce crane-related accidents is to provide, teach, and enforce two-way radio communication between the operator and ground personnel.

Ground personnel are most vulnerable to being compressed in pinch points. Thus, they must be aware when the operator begins working the crane, particularly while adjusting its swinging sections or driving it forward or backward.

Transportation hazards

The frequently disregarded danger of working with cranes is the risk of transporting cranes to and from work sites.

These accidents are frequently referred to as the fifth danger in OSHA’s list of deadly four. Cranes are massive machines that must frequently be transported over large distances by industrial trucks.

Crane transportation is a long and difficult procedure with numerous potential hazards, including crashes, runovers, and brake failure.

It’s estimated that more than 13% of fatal crane incidents occur during transportation. Oversized loads, such as cranes, are risky and can kill personnel who are not properly trained or do not adhere to crane safety regulations for transportation.

Best practices when working with cranes

To reduce the chances of accidents happening, you should be cautious about how you handle the cranes. To be on the safe side, here are tips you should observe:

Properly train your employees

As an employer, you must give proper health and safety training to all of your employees so that they are competent at their employment.

By educating your personnel, you improve workplace safety, satisfaction, and revenues while reducing injuries, fatalities, accidents, and illness.

Ensure people working on the crane know where to stand

You should never stand underneath a crane or have a weight lifted over you. Your personnel must be aware of this and avoid wandering through any areas where cranes are overhead.

Parting shot

Everyone working with cranes is at risk of getting injured or hurt, so you should be aware of this when renting cranes from crane services VA.

Besides hiring a well maintained crane, also ensure that you work with experienced professionals. It also doesn’t hurt to train the people handling the crane to reduce the chances of accidents happening.

Common Crane hazards and how to avoid them

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When you are working with a crane, there are plenty of hazards that come with it. The most common ones are:

Overloading

This happens when the load exceeds the crane’s capacity, but it can also happen when the cargo is swinging, dragging, suddenly dropping, or it’s centre of gravity is not immediately under the crane.

Overloading can decrease the structural integrity of the crane and increase the chance of the crane malfunctioning.

There is also the risk of the load falling and hurting the people working on the site. To avoid this, you should be ultra-cautious of the weight that you lift with the crane. As a rule of thumb, don’t lift more than the crane is designed to do.

Before you pick the crane from the crane rentals, confirm with them about the maximum weight that you can carry with the crane. Of course, you should never exceed it.

Falling/dropping load

Falling materials are another potential hazard when operating a crane, and they can cause significant injuries if someone is struck by or caught between them.

Objects may fall as a result of poor or inadequate rigging or material tying down. It could also be due to a mechanical failure of the lifting setup or even because of the movement of the materials being lifted.

To ensure this doesn’t happen, always do a double check of the load before you lift and ensure that it’s securely in place. It’s even wise for the crane operator to slightly lift the load to confirm that it’s securely in place. They should only continue with the lift after they have ascertained that it’s in place.

Sling angle

This is a critical issue that many people with limited crane experience do not completely get.

A resultant sling angle is created when you start the sling at the crane hook, go to the load at an angle, via I-bolt on top of the load, go to the opposite side through an i-bolt, and then back to the crane hook.

With this design, what appears to be a 45-degree angle due to the forces being applied to the sling is actually cut in half, well below what safety standards permit. People need to be aware of this circumstance so that they don’t overwhelm the sling.

Swing

Operators will undoubtedly encounter swing in the crane at some point, and it is critical that they understand how to remove swing from a lift properly.

The objective is, first and foremost, to not have a swing at all. However, due to the variety of conditions that may arise, a crane operator will occasionally encounter a swing and must know how to deal with it.

To reduce the risk of the swing, you should work with an experienced crane operator who can easily counter the swing.

Guide rope availability

When approaching a load, be careful not to touch it or the rigging. You need a guiding rope to help you out.

However, the challenge comes when there may not be a guide rope available. Someone may have stolen the guide rope, used it, and left it somewhere, but no one knows where it is.

Without the guide rope, operators may be enticed to briefly touch the cargo, which considerably increases risk.

Guide ropes aren’t always highly efficient, especially when it comes to regulating loads. The guide rope can assist with load rotation, however, it can only be pulled and not pushed, for obvious reasons.

To be on the safe side, work with rigging professionals who know how to handle the guide rope.

You might need two or more operators, each with their own guide rope, to control the load. Or, the alternative is to use a pole, which allows the operator to grab the load and push as well as pull it.

Wear/damage

It is usual for equipment to wear and tear with regular use. However, frequent inspections of the crane are required to guarantee that there is no serious damage to the hoist or rigging equipment.

Any sort of damage to the equipment should be categorized as either fixable—and fixed before the operator uses it—or damaged beyond repair and scrapped.

Working with damaged load-bearing equipment can affect their performance and potentially create safety hazards.

Crane training—the key to reducing the hazard effects

Training is essential for safe crane operations. Specific training needs can differ per jurisdiction so you should find the type of training that is ideal for your location.

Regardless of where you are located, training for personnel involved in crane operation aims to provide the necessary knowledge and skills for them to perform the task safely and effectively and to operate the equipment according to the manufacturer’s instructions as well as comply with applicable requirements and standards.

A comprehensive and up-to-date training program for crane operators and other workers involved in hoisting and rigging is a solid start.

Crane operator training includes both theoretical and practical hands-on components. It may include sections on crane components and safety equipment, as well as load handling concepts and how to calculate lifting capacity.

It could also comprise safe labor practices, such as agreed-upon communication methods and pre-operation inspections, as well as operating procedures and techniques, such as identifying factors that can affect hoist capacity.

Crane operation involves so many possible hazards that frequent refresher training may be required to review important knowledge and skills.

Parting shot

There are plenty of hazards that come with working with cranes. To be on the safe side, be on the lookout for these hazards and work on preventing them.

To reduce the chances of accidents happening, ensure that everyone handling the crane is fully and properly trained.

On-site training is also necessary for situations and applications that necessitate specialized skills or pose unique risks.

If an operator is expected to execute a task that is not covered in basic training, you can collaborate with the foreperson or supervisor to ensure the operator has the necessary knowledge of the scenario.

The people working with the cranes might be highly trained and experienced but if the crane is in horrible shape, they will have the worst experience. To ensure this isn’t the case, get well-maintained cranes from the crane rental services VA.

How to Properly Rig Your Load

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In the world of construction, the tools and materials required to complete the job are frequently too large or bulky to carry by hand. As a result, if you need something moved from point A to point B, a crane will usually be your first port of call.

Besides hiring a properly maintained crane from crane services, the other thing you should do is to ensure that you properly rig the load. To help you out, here are tips on how to go about it.

Be cautious of the weight.

The first thing to think about before trying a lift is the weight of the load. Equipment should be labeled with their weight. If no such marking is visible, contact the manufacturer.

When lifting building materials, make sure to account for both the number and weight of the units being transported. The weight of the load will determine the type of sling you will use during the lift.

Lookout for the sling

Make sure your sling is up to the task. This includes choosing a sling that is appropriate for the load. Fabric slings made of nylon and polyester are easy to handle, but user-friendliness should not come at the expense of safety.

Keep in mind that knots and cuts considerably weaken fabric slings, making them more susceptible to heat and friction than their metallic counterparts. Wire or chain slings are often the best solution for carrying big or abrasive goods.

Before you do any lifting, always double-check the sling and ensure that it’s in perfect shape. The last thing you should do is to use a sling that is in the blink of getting damaged, and you put your machine and the people working on the site at risk of getting hurt.

Hitch the load correctly.

Take the time to ensure that your sling is attached to the most appropriate section of the load. Never hitch to sections like guard rails that may come free during the lift.

Always tie the sling to the most secure component of the load to reduce the possibility of detachment or yielding during transit.

Loose hooks and slings are a major cause of load slippage and crane overturns. If a load is not correctly secured and reinforced to the jib and hook, it may become disconnected in the middle. These mishaps are extremely dangerous, particularly if they occur in the air.

Hitch the weight while ensuring that the hooks are tight, properly positioned, and exactly between the center of gravity.

Before you start the lifting, always double-check and confirm that everything is in perfect working order.

The right hitch lifts the load without tilting, spinning, or slipping. The Mechanical Contractors Association of America (MCAA) recommends that you use these types of hitches:

Vertical hitch: The weight hangs straight from the crane via a vertical sling. A bridle hitch is a variation on this in which the weight is held by many slings at different angles rather than just one vertical sling.

Choker hitch: The sling rotates around the load, one end attached to the sling and the other to the crane.

Basket hitch: The sling surrounds the weight with this hitch, but both ends are attached to the crane hook.

You should note that even little damage affects a sling’s loading capability, so before you use it, you should thoroughly inspect it along its length. Inspect it for welding marks, deformations, cracks, and other signs of damage. If you notice any problem, don’t use the sling.

Have good communication

If a load is properly fixed, the possibilities of injury during the lift are reduced. Those operating on the ground, however, must still take responsibility for their own and their colleagues’ safety.

With this in mind, clear communication is essential. There should be a designated signaler who communicates with both the crane operator and his or her ground crew. Furthermore, each member of the rigging team should be free of pinch points and any load sway before the signaler gives the crane operator the go-ahead. Obviously, never stray beneath a loaded truck.

Be cautious during the lowering.

Before the operator begins lowering the load, make sure your surroundings are capable of supporting the burden.

If you need to steer the weight, use a tagline; if you’re walking with it, keep it near the ground. Remove all surrounding items and keep your feet clear. Stay on your toes and avoid getting stuck between the load and a stationary object.

Never leave a suspended load unattended.

Even with suitable rigging and a sufficiently large crane, leaving a hanging load unattended poses various concerns. For example, the weather can change fast, and a strong blast of wind might have a significant impact on hanging cargo. In this scenario, the entire crane may become unstable and collapse.

To avoid this, you should never have an unattended load hanging on your crane. You should always put the load down before you do anything.

In many cases, you will have a suspended load when the site isn’t ready. As you can tell, this is often due to poor preparation. Before you even lift the load, you should know where you will place it. The last thing you should do is to lift the load and then start thinking about where to place it.

Use a quality crane.

It goes that you should use a quality crane to do the lifting. When you are hiring the machine, always do a double check and confirm that its properly maintained and in perfect working condition.

This calls for you to ask for the maintenance records. If the crane rental services VA provider is dodgy on the maintenance of the crane, you should stay away from it.

Even when you get the crane, don’t just start working. Inspect it and confirm that it’s working optimally. A good way to go about it is to inspect the crane before you do any lifting.

As a rule of thumb, always ensure that the crane operator you hire is experienced and knows what they are doing. The last thing you want is the operator causing problems that aren’t supposed to be there.

Important Questions to Ask When Hiring a Crane

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Are you preparing to begin a commercial building project? You will need a crane. If purchasing a crane is not an option, renting one from a crane rental services provider may be a more cost-effective solution.

You need to get in touch with a reliable crane rental company to discuss your requirements. To have a great time and rent the right unit, you must ask yourself several crucial questions. These questions include:

What do you want to lift?

Understanding the weights of the heaviest items you want to lift is critical. Knowing the weight of the load may appear straightforward, but there may be more to it than meets the eye.

You should learn the actual weights of your loads because it will determine the size of the crane you need to hire. The weight also has a significant impact on safety and efficiency of the unit.

Some people will advise that you guess the weight of the load, but don’t do this. You also should never randomly add weight.

You may think you are saving time, but doing this causes an error that may bother you later.

Adding a “contingency” load of a reasonable value to your load is best done directly and with the crane company’s input.

So, if you aren’t sure about the exact weight you want to lift, consult the crane company, and it will help you estimate it.

You can adjust the value of this contingency as conditions change and the project evolves, and you’ll always know where you stand.

The load’s dimensions is another thing to consider, so pay attention to it. Large items may be difficult to transport, so be cautious of their sizes.

While you are at it, know the location of the center of gravity. An excellent way to do it is to consult the fabricators’ designs. If your load’s center of gravity is not specified, let the fabricator help you estimate it. Don’t do it alone, as you will likely mess up.

How long will you need to hire the crane?

Before renting a crane, you must determine how long you will need the crane. The longer you use the crane, the more it costs.

As you are coming up with the cost of hiring the crane, consider the cost of deploying the crane. All-terrain cranes are designed to be driven on highways and are more cost-effective to transport than crawler cranes.

Larger all-terrain cranes typically require one or two truckloads of counterweights. Crawler cranes may need anywhere from a dozen to several dozen truckloads to get there, which means they will be expensive to transport.

The worst mistake you can make is hiring a crane only to find that you need it longer than you estimated. To ensure that you are hiring the crane for the right amount of time, work with professionals who will help you analyze the magnitude of the project and the amount of time it will take you to complete it.

Who will operate the crane?

The crane operator you hire significantly impacts the quality of experience you have with your crane. When you hire an inexperienced crane operator, there is even the risk of the crane collapsing and causing an accident.

To be safe, hire a contractor that knows what they are doing.

Most crane rental companies have two types of services. A service where they hire you the crane with the operator and one where they simply hire you the crane, and then you find your operator.

To avoid complications, hire a crane together with the contractor. This way, you are sure that the contractor is well-versed with the crane, and they are less likely to cause an accident.

They also are more likely to take good care of the crane as they use it regularly.

When you visit the rental companies, don’t just accept the operator recommended by the company. Instead, take your time to review their certifications and ensure they are experienced enough and authorized to work in your area.

Do you need to prepare the site?

Sometimes, you might need to prepare your work site to reduce the chances of accidents. Before renting a crane, bring a geotechnical expert to examine the area and recommend the best place to install the crane.

When hiring, find engineers supplying you with the ground-bearing pressures your equipment will exert on your location. If these pressure levels need to be reduced, the engineers will work with you to devise solutions to reduce the values to acceptable levels.

If the intended crane position is on disturbed soil, you may have to compact the soils. Remember that you shouldn’t erect cranes on disturbed or freshly backfilled soil, so you must give the soil time to settle before you bring on the crane.

Occasionally, the ideal site for the crane is above utilities, pipes, vaults, vessels, or other vital objects that may impact the crane’s capacity to support its operation at that location.

You must know about these subsurface problems to avoid damage.

To avoid accidents, work with engineers with extensive expertise in dealing with these difficulties and are eager to collaborate with you to find a solution.

Parting shot

When hiring a crane from crane services DC, you should ask these questions. As a rule of thumb, take your time hiring the crane.

Take your time and find a crane that is the right size and type for your project.

You also should hire an experienced crane operator who will minimize the chances of accidents and take good care of the crane.

Finally, properly prepare your work site. As a rule of thumb, work with experienced engineers who will adequately prepare the area and, at the same time, guide you on the best procedure to lift your load.

Heavy Machinery Movers: Which Is the Best for You?

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Moving big machinery is difficult and often requires the use of specialized equipment. The common areas you need to undertake heavy machinery moving are in industrial and construction environments.

If you want to move heavy machinery, a wide range of heavy equipment movers are available. They include:

Forklifts

Forklifts are flexible equipment to lift and move large machinery within a facility. They are available in various capacities and configurations, ranging from small electric forklifts for interior use to bigger diesel-powered forklifts for outdoor use.

Forklifts are ideal for short-distance transportation, but you can also use them for long-distance or off-road movements.

When hiring a forklift, consider the task you want to undertake with the machine. Are you using it in warehouse operations, construction, or manufacturing? Think about this before hiring.

You also need to determine the forklift’s weight capacity and height requirements. This will give you an idea of what the forklift can do and the areas you can use it.

Finally, consider the topography and operating circumstances of the forklift. Are you looking to use it inside, outdoors, or in a difficult terrain? Think about this and hire the right one.

Mobile cranes

Mobile cranes are known for their capacity to lift and transport huge items. There are many types of these cranes, including hydraulic, rough, and all-terrain cranes.

Mobile cranes are ideal for moving heavy machinery on building sites and other outdoor locations. You can equip them with various attachments to meet specific lifting and movement needs.

When hiring mobile cranes, ensure that you hire the right ones that will be able to lift your intended equipment and navigate your area.

The last thing you want is to hire a crane to discover that you can’t use it in your location.

Crawler cranes

These are tracked, self-propelled machines built for large lifting. These machines have the benefit of being stable and mobile on rough terrain, making them ideal for moving big machinery in difficult situations.

Crawler cranes are best used in major construction projects when agility is critical.

When hiring the crane, ensure that it can work in your area.

Transporter systems

Self-propelled modular transporters (SPMTs) are specialized equipment for transferring big loads. These systems comprise several wheeled modules that may be separately operated, providing for precision movement and weight distribution.

SPMTs are best used to transport huge and heavy machinery, such as transformers and industrial components.

Rigging and skidding equipment

Rigging and skidding equipment comprises hydraulic jacks, skid shoes, and other items used to lift, move, and position heavy machines.

This equipment is best used when moving machinery in a restricted space or when a more cost-effective alternative is required.

Towing and recovery vehicles

Towing and recovery vehicles are used to transport broken or damaged heavy machinery. These vehicles are available in various sizes and capabilities, making them suited for various recovery and transportation jobs.

Hydraulic platform trailers

Hydraulic platform trailers are designed to transport large and heavy goods. They feature hydraulic systems you can change to handle different weights and sizes. These trailers are widely used on public roadways to move big equipment across long distances.

Things to consider when hiring heavy equipment movers

For you to get the most from the machinery you are hiring, you need to consider several things, including:

Weight and dimensions of the machinery

You must consider the weight and dimensions of the equipment you must transport. Heavier and larger machinery may necessitate using specialist machinery movers such as mobile cranes, crawler cranes, or transporter systems.

Choosing the right heavy machinery movers is critical in logistics to ensure industrial equipment’s safe and efficient movement.

Terrain and location

The terrain and location you are looking to use the machine are critical factors in selecting the right mover. Rough terrain may necessitate crawlers or all-terrain mobile cranes, while indoor environments may benefit from forklifts or rigging equipment.

Distance and accessibility

The distance that you need to move the moving machine and the route’s accessibility are critical considerations you should make.

If you want to move the equipment over a long distance, you should go with hydraulic platform trailers or specialist carriers, whereas indoor or tight places may need rigging equipment.

Safety

Compliance with safety standards and permissions may determine which machinery mover suits your requirements.

Always make sure that you are adhering to all legal and safety regulations to prevent accidents from coming about.

As a rule of thumb, ensure your machinery is strong enough to move your intended machine.

When transporting heavy machinery, footwear is extremely vital because anything that falls might easily injure personnel’s feet. This can lead to issues like accident litigation and employees missing work, which you certainly don’t want to happen.

To keep your employees safe, provide them with the relevant footwear.

You can use machine skates for smaller machinery that must be transported across your business.

Machine skates are an excellent alternative for moving machinery across a factory or shop floor without heavy lifting. As the name implies, this entails placing the equipment on ultra-strong machine-moving skates to transport it to its new location effortlessly.

You should use lifting jacks when placing the machinery on top of the machine skates. Installing the machinery on the skates takes little time, depending on the size of the machinery you are lifting.

Parting shot

You can use this equipment to move heavy machinery for crane rigging DC or any other task.

For an easy time, maintain clear communication with everyone involved.

Tricks to Spend Less with Rented Cranes

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When hiring a crane for your project, you don’t want to spend too much on it. Profit margin drives decision-making in every aspect of construction, and even seemingly insignificant project modifications—like overspending or underperforming equipment—can have a big effect on the final financial result.

Due to this, getting every detail right is crucial.

When renting cranes from the crane rentals, you can avoid overspending by taking the time to plan and procure cranes, as well as by taking into account some basic site considerations.

The things you need to consider include:

Rent a small cane for small sites

A small crane with a remote control is the most economical option if you have a low-intensity site with a small workforce (12–15 workers, for example) and a required lift capacity of up to two tonnes, which would suggest you were building something with a timber frame or conventional houses using pallets of bricks, blocks, and mortar.

You will reduce the running costs greatly if you employ a remote-controlled model that only requires one person to load the hook and operate the crane controls.

Additionally, you can train multiple site workers to perform this task, allowing you to continue working without waiting for a single trained worker to return. This keeps the crane running and the project moving forward.

If, on the other side, you have a large site, you should get a tower crane. This crane is ideal when loads exceed two tones at thirty meters, and your project takes over twenty weeks.

Compared to mobile cranes with a comparable lifting capacity, saddle jib or flat-top cranes are more affordable to hire and come in various height and jib configurations. So, if your project fits into the crane, go for it.

Hire cranes that are tall enough.

A crane’s height significantly influences costs. And it’s not just the cost of the rental. Also, the costs of keeping the crane running.

You need more concrete and steel for the base of a taller crane to be huge and strong enough to support the crane’s weight.

Additionally, taller cranes use more electricity and emit more carbon dioxide. Therefore, even a slight reduction in the height required for your lifting requirements might impact your overall expenditures.

To ensure that you don’t rent a crane that is too tall than you need, determine the highest point that the crane can reach. This dimension will assist you in figuring out the necessary crane height. As you decide on the right crane, consider any impediments or barriers that could limit the crane’s reach.

These include power lines, neighboring buildings, trees, and so on.

Position the materials appropriately.

The cranes’ location and other building site features will also impact your expenses. One well-known instance that frequently happens is when a materials shop is placed in the center of a courtyard or other open space on the property.

If you have multiple cranes, this implies that while one is loading, the other cannot reach the materials and must wait, wasting time in the process.

In addition to raising the chance of collisions, this configuration often makes site operations challenging and ineffective.

Optimizing the location of the materials store within the overall lifting plan will guarantee seamless operations, resulting in longer hook times and lower crane rental expenses.

For a great experience, provide open, unobstructed access to these locations.

You also should ensure the site has well-built walkways and access roads so the cranes can navigate it. These paths should be clear of obstructions and large enough to fit both cranes.

As a rule of thumb, have a specific location for storing the materials. Ensure that both cranes can easily access this area. This area should be placed strategically to reduce the distance that cranes must go to pick up items.

Ensure the crane has enough power.

You will need three-phase power if you install lift shafts—most tall structures do. The power should be installed as soon as possible to use the tower crane’s primary power during construction.

You should ensure that you have enough power before you bring on the crane because doing so is far less expensive than using a generator, even with the additional rental fees, fuel tank, and fuel.

You can cut the costs throughout a building project with a few easy adjustments, including one-time hire fees and continuous operating costs.

Work with the right team.

Finally, you should ensure that you have the right team. This calls for you to ensure that everyone, from the crane operator to the riggers, is experienced and knows what they are doing.

Many people will argue that you will end up spending more money than you need when hiring expert riggers, but this isn’t the case.

When you hire experts, as much as they will be a little expensive to hire at first, they will save you a lot of money in the long run.

When you hire inexperienced contractors, as much as they will be cheap, they might cost you too much money. This is because they will do substandard work, and you will have to redo it, which will likely be too expensive.

There is also the risk of the crane breaking down or even getting damaged due to being handled by inexperienced technicians.

As much as you want to spend less on your project, take time and find experienced professionals. Thankfully, most crane service DC providers have their team that they work with; hence, you don’t need to worry about finding the right team to work with.

Why you Should Hire a Crane for Construction

In constructions, particularly those entailing the handling of hefty loads and the meticulous positioning of materials, a single apparatus often rises above all others—the crane.

Whether your project entails the construction of towering skyscrapers, cozy residential abodes, or any structure in between, the merits of opting for crane rentals are manifold and can significantly impact the achievement of your project’s objectives.

In this article, we’ll delve into ten compelling rationales supporting the idea of leasing a crane for your construction requirements.

Lifting heavy loads with ease

Imagine the construction of a new skyscraper, where steel beams weighing several tons each need to be precisely positioned at great heights. Or picture the construction of a bridge, where massive concrete segments need to be lifted into place with pinpoint accuracy. These are the types of challenges where cranes truly shine.

Cranes are engineered with the power and precision to tackle these monumental tasks. These machines are furnished with sturdy winches, cables, and hooks, enabling them to effortlessly raise and convey burdens that would be unfeasible, if not entirely insurmountable, for human laborers to manage by hand.

The load-bearing capability of cranes spans a broad spectrum, ranging from more compact mobile cranes, apt for moderately hefty loads, to towering tower cranes, capable of hoisting exceptionally weighty materials to heights extending hundreds of feet into the atmosphere.

Precision

Cranes are engineered with the power and precision to tackle these monumental tasks. They are equipped with robust winches, cables, and hooks that can effortlessly hoist and transport loads that would be impractical, if not impossible, for human workers to handle manually.

The lifting capacity of cranes varies widely, from smaller mobile cranes suitable for moderately heavy loads to towering tower cranes capable of lifting extremely heavy materials hundreds of feet into the air.

What sets cranes apart is their mechanical advantage. They utilize principles of physics to make lifting heavy loads seem almost effortless. Many cranes’ hydraulic systems and counterweights effectively balance and stabilize the load, ensuring it remains steady and controlled throughout the lifting process.

Safety

In the construction industry, safety is paramount regarding the welfare of workers, property, and the public in general.

Most construction sites are inadvertently hazardous spaces due to heights, the nature of materials being used, machinery, and the operations involved. When you hire a crane, you reduce the likelihood of accidents because these machines come with safety features and are operated by professionals.

Save time

Time is money, and this applies to the construction industry as well. Since every moment counts, you cannot afford always to have delays.

Hiring a crane can save you time because it effortlessly expedites load placement, material handling, and workflow streamlining. As you can imagine, this will considerably reduce project timelines, resulting in significant cost savings.

Ultimately, when you rent a crane, you’re not just procuring a piece of machinery but investing in your construction project’s effectiveness and financial sustainability.

Reach new heights

Are you building a skyscraper or a simple multi-story building? Whatever the case, a crane will be useful when getting construction materials to higher levels.

With a crane, your workers will be safer and work more efficiently, all while saving time. In the long run, you will also save money because you are less likely to have injured workers who require medical attention or delays in achieving construction goals.

Versatility

The remarkable adaptability of cranes within the construction sphere stands out as one of their most compelling attributes. These exceptional machines come in various sizes and configurations, each meticulously designed to cater to specific project prerequisites. This brings us to the sixth compelling rationale for enlisting the services of cranes in construction: their versatility.

This adaptability ensures that a suitable crane type exists for your construction endeavor, irrespective of its scale, location, or intricacy. It signifies the ability to cherry-pick the precise tool for the task, thereby optimizing efficiency, safety, and productivity.

Whether you’re engaged in constructing a modest residential dwelling, a soaring skyscraper, or anything in between, cranes present a custom-tailored solution to your construction needs. Their flexibility underscores their indispensable role within the industry.

Save money

In construction, the importance of cost-effectiveness cannot be overstated. It extends beyond immediate expenditures to encompass long-term savings and advantages.

Although procuring a crane may appear as an initial cost, it frequently emerges as a more economical choice than alternative approaches. The swiftness and efficiency of crane operations can lead to diminished labor expenses and shorter project durations, yielding cost savings that outweigh the initial investment.

Less site congestion

Consider the space required to store weighty construction materials and machinery at the site. Cranes aid in alleviating site congestion by promptly relocating materials to their designated spots, thereby liberating valuable space for other essential tasks and operations.

Enhance project versatility

Having a crane readily available expands the spectrum of projects you can undertake. This tool allows you to engage in more expansive and ambitious undertakings that might have been attainable with this invaluable equipment.

Elevate project excellence

Last but certainly not least, cranes can markedly enhance the caliber of your construction endeavor. Their exactitude, celerity, and proficiency in handling substantial loads contribute to a more streamlined and effective construction process, culminating in a superior end product.

Conclusion

When you embark on a construction venture, particularly one entailing intricate lifting requisites, opting for crane hire is not just a choice—it’s a prudent decision. The benefits, spanning from heightened safety and efficiency to the augmentation of project quality, are unmistakable.

Therefore, the next time you plan a construction project, think about the potential and precision a crane can bring to your site. The success of your project may pivot on it.

When hiring the crane, ensure that you do it from reputable crane rental services VA that stock high-quality and well-maintained machines.

7 Tricks to Reduce Crane Accidents On Your Site

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Cranes are extremely powerful pieces of machinery that allow for the lifting of big items on construction sites. However, cranes are also potential risks because their weight can cause harm if mishandled.

Of all the reported crane accidents, more than half resulted from workers being injured by objects or equipment, and more than 20% included the crane operator.

These figures emphasize the need for crane safety during all stages of operation, including crane hire, transport, setup, rigging, and lifting.

Would you like to reduce crane accidents on your site? There are several things you can do. They include:

Work with the right crane.

Choosing the right crane is the first step toward ensuring safe crane operation. Cranes can be movable or fixed, with fixed cranes used in industrial environments or complex or tall construction projects.

There are many types of cranes, so be sure you get the proper one for the job.

Carry deck crane: These highly mobile cranes have a simple setup and rotation but struggle to handle tough terrain.

Crawler cranes are ideal for places with soft terrain since they employ tracks rather than rubber wheels.

Rough-terrain cranes: While they cannot drive on public highways, they can tackle steep grades and challenging terrain on the project site.

All-terrain cranes have the advantage of being able to travel to job locations on their own and tackle harsh terrain once there.

There are dozens of crane types, ranging from small to gigantic cranes. It’s up to you to take your time and select the appropriate crane for your site.

Inspect your crane every day.

The crane operator should use a daily inspection checklist to ensure the crane is safe before operation. These inspections include pre-start, engine start-up, and safety system inspections.

Before starting the crane, the operator should inspect the tires, oil levels, seat belts, air reservoir, and battery, among other things.

Before starting the engine for the day, the operator should also check the pressure gauge, fuel level, turn signals, horn, suspension, and brain system.

They also should undertake safety system checks to avoid catastrophic incidents. They should check the anti-two block, the rated capacity limitation, and the outriggers.

Operators should also execute a series of hydraulic system checks to ensure the crane can lift properly.

Ensure the crane is stable before starting work.

Outriggers or other stabilizing features are necessary on mobile cranes to prevent the crane from tipping over during operation. Keep the following in mind when stabilizing the crane:

To establish how far outriggers should be extended, consult the manufacturer’s instructions.

Under outriggers, place outrigger pads or crane pads.

Don’t use outriggers over voids, depressions, or unstable ground.

Many crane mishaps and tip-overs are caused by poor outrigger setup, so make sure you’ve done a thorough safety review of the outrigger location.

If you have any doubts, don’t proceed with the project. Call it off until you are comfortable.

Correctly rig the load.

Load rigging protects objects from falling and potentially injuring those on the job site. Consider the following factors when rigging a load:

Hitching: Slings can be attached to a load in various ways. Always consider the object being hoisted as well as the object’s weight distribution. You can use basket hitching and choker hitching are two popular hitch configurations. Always use the correct one.

Sling angle: When a non-vertical angle is utilized, additional forces are applied to the slings, lowering their overall weight capability. Use slings that are adequately certified for weight at a specific angle.

A thorough grasp of force, weight distribution, and rigging techniques is required to enable a safe, stable lift of even the most irregular and heavy loads.

Pay attention to the load limits.

Despite the fact that many modern cranes feature load moment indicators and rated capacity limiters, crane operators should still be able to read load charts to prepare for a safe lift. Keep the following in mind while reading load charts to establish the safety of a lift:

On rubber vs. outriggers: A crane can carry a lot more weight when it’s on outriggers rather than just tires.

Rotation: A crane can retain greater weight if the boom remains above the front of the crane during the lift. You should note that the capacity is substantially reduced if the boom must swing; thus, check the correct column.

The greater the load radius, the less weight the crane can lift. Load charts rarely cover every potential radius; therefore, always refer to the next highest radius to stay within safe limits.

Load charts are the most important tool for safely planning a lift and avoiding crane failure or tip-over.

Plan your movements

Before crane movement, design and clear a path of any obstructions. Hazards that cannot be moved, such as electrical lines or other permanent elements, should be avoided, and the operator should always maintain a safe distance.

You should keep your crane at least 10 feet away from power lines.

To be safe, have a signal person to lead the crane during travel, alerting the crane operator to potential hazards and informing other site staff of the crane’s progress.

Work with the right people.

Crane operation requires qualified workers for setup, rigging, signaling, and operation. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has standards requiring crane operators to be trained, certified, and properly evaluated.

Follow the regulations and ensure that only a qualified person operates your crane.

It’s tempting to hire the first person that you come across that says that they can operate a crane. Don’t do this. You should note that a crane contractor should be experienced and know what they are doing.

It’s also tempting to hire a cheap contractor to save some money. Again, don’t do this, as the cheap contractor will most likely be inexperienced and will lead you to more problems.

The best way to do it is to hire the professional that comes with the crane that you hire from crane rental services VA.

How to Rig a Crane’s Load Effectively

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When it comes to rigging safety, hiring the right crane from crane rentals, choosing the right sling, and placing it correctly are critical.

You need to rig your load properly to reduce accidents and ensure that you do a proper lift. To help you out, here are tips you should consider to make this possible:

Understand the weight you are lifting.

The weight of the load is the first item to consider before trying a lift. You should see the weight labels attached to all pieces of equipment. If there is no such label visible, contact the manufacturer.

When lifting building materials, consider the number and weight of the units being carried. You should determine the sling to use during the lift based on the weight of the load.

As a rule of thumb, remember that you are better off using slings and other equipment stronger than the weight you want to lift. Never use a sling weaker than the sling, as you will damage it.

Properly secure the load.

You should never raise a weight into the air unless it is completely secure. Ensure that your load has been properly designed in addition to the proper lifting equipment.

Check the hook’s safety catches before attaching the load. The hook should be positioned directly above the load’s center of gravity.

It is also a good idea to evaluate the load’s security by lifting it a little distance from the ground into the air before the final lift.

Don’t proceed with the lifting if you notice an issue with the load, regardless of how minor it is.

Use the right sling

Check to see if your sling is up to the task. This entails picking a sling that is appropriate for the load. Fabric slings made of nylon and polyester are easy to use, but safety should not be compromised for convenience.

Remember that knots and cuts greatly weaken fabric slings and are more susceptible to heat and friction than their metallic equivalents. Wire or chain slings are frequently the best for heavy or abrasive loads.

Hitch the load correctly.

Before you do the lifting, take the time to ensure that your sling is properly attached to the load. Never hitch to components prone to coming free during the lift, such as guard rails.

Always attach the sling to the most secure section of the load to reduce the possibility of separation or yielding during transportation.

Maintain clear lines of communication.

When a load is rigged correctly, the risk of injury during the lift is reduced. Those operating at ground level are responsible for keeping themselves and their colleagues safe. Given this, excellent communication is critical.

You should have a designated signaller present to communicate with the crane operator and their colleagues on the ground.

Before the signaller provides the go-ahead to the crane operator, each member of the rigging team should be clear of pinch points and potential load sway. Obviously, you should never go underneath a moving weight.

Before you lift the weight, make it clear that you are doing it so that everyone is aware of it and can stay away from harm.

Be cautious of touchdowns.

Many people will be cautious of load lifts, but this isn’t the only time you should be cautious. You also should be cautious of touchdowns.

Ensure that your surroundings can accept the load before the operator begins lowering. If you need to steer the weight, use a tagline; if you’re walking with it, keep it near the ground.

Always clear the area around your feet of any items that might get in the way. You also should maintain your balance and avoid becoming stuck between the load and a stationary object.

Ensure that you are working with properly trained personnel

Proper personnel training is critical for load security. Ensure that all staff participating in the load securement process are appropriately trained on the load securing equipment, techniques, and procedures.

Regular training sessions help ensure everyone is updated on the newest load securement best practices.

Consider the environmental factors.

You need to consider several environmental factors when doing the crane lifting. These factors to pay attention to include:

Wind: Wind is a major environmental component that can impact crane operations. Wind gusts can affect the stability of the crane and the cargo being hoisted.

It is critical to follow the wind speed restrictions given by the manufacturer for the crane model and the cargo being hoisted. If the wind exceeds the safe limitations, postpone until conditions improve.

Extreme temperatures: Extreme temperatures or humidity levels can harm Crane components and lifting equipment.

Thermal expansion occurs at high temperatures, whereas low temperatures result in brittle materials and limited flexibility. Temperature and humidity levels affect the load’s stability and the crane’s performance. Consult the crane manufacturer’s recommendations for operating temperature ranges.

Ground conditions: Crane stability depends on the state of the ground or working surface. Ascertain that the ground is sturdy, stable, and capable of supporting the crane’s weight and the load being lifted.

You should note that accidents might occur if the crane tips or sinks due to soft or uneven terrain. Consider employing crane mats or outrigger pads to spread the load and boost stability.

Parting shot

These are some of the measures you must take to ensure you rig your crane’s load effectively. As a rule of thumb, ensure you use a high-quality crane from a reputable crane services VA provider. Work with crane companies that provide you with an experienced crane rigging team to have an even easier time.

This way, you save time and effort in looking for a crane operator and ensure that the team will do a great job with little supervision.

5 Questions to Ask When Hiring a Crane

Are you preparing to begin a commercial building project? The massive lifting will very certainly need the use of a crane. If purchasing a crane is not an option, renting a crane for your project may be a more cost-effective solution.

You should call a reliable crane rentals firm to discuss your requirements, but you may need clarification on what to expect or how to prepare.

Ask yourself these eight crucial questions before making the call to ensure you make the greatest use of your time. Armed with important information, the crane rental firm can advise you on which crane will best suit your project.

What do you want to lift?

When considering renting a crane, the most critical question to answer is: What is the weight of the cargo or loads you need to lift? After all, it is why you are thinking about utilizing a crane.

It is critical to understand the weights of your heaviest objects. This is because it will decide the size of the crane you need to do the lifting. Before you head to rental stores, ensure that you know the value of the load to a reasonable level of accuracy for both safety and efficiency.

The fabricators’ or manufacturers’ drawings are usually the best sources to find the value for the weight of your load. They nearly always have a value assigned to “shipping weight” or “empty weight.”

If weight determination from drawings is not practicable, consider weighing the load to know its weight before you rent a crane. For peace of mind that you are doing the right thing, ensure that the weighing is done by an expert who knows what they are doing.

What type of crane is best for the project?

There are various types of lifts that you can undertake. The pick-and-place method is the most basic, in which the crane is attached to the cargo, lifts it, and then swings and lowers it into position. If this is the route you want, you must consider how to attach the crane to the load(s).

Who will be in charge of designing the rigging? If you require assistance with rigging design, get engineers to help you create rigging systems that will do the job.

If you are lifting a hefty load, you will need two cranes to raise the load or to rotate a weight from horizontal to vertical, a process known as “lift-and-tail.” If this is the way you want to go, you should know that they are more complicated and require more planning.

If you are building a tall structure, a tower crane may be your best option. If renting the crane for the first time, get crane rental experts to assist you in determining the optimal tower crane size and type for your job.

A crane is frequently required to lift and transport a weight, a process known as “pick-and-carry.” Rough terrain cranes can pick up lighter loads while moving on their tires, whereas crawler cranes can transport higher loads.

Another critical factor to consider is the height required to lift the weight. This measurement will heavily influence the length of the boom and whether or not jibs are necessary.

If the load is tall and/or you are lifting it to a substantial height, you must evaluate the available headroom for the rigging and the load bloc of the crane.

How long will you need the crane?

Before renting a crane, you must determine how long you need it. The longer you use the crane, the more it costs. One major worry is the cost of deploying the crane. All-terrain cranes are designed to be driven on highways and are more cost-effective to transport than crawler cranes.

Larger all-terrain cranes typically require one or two truckloads of counterweights. On the other hand, crawler cranes may require anywhere from a dozen to several dozen truckloads to get there.

As a result, for a large crawler crane to be cost-effective, you must use it on the job site for an extended period.

Remember to assemble and dismantle all of these components at your project site. Transporting a huge crawler crane for a single lift is rarely cost-effective.

Where will you place the crane on the site?

The location is critical in determining the size of the crane required. The crane’s location will determine the radius of your pick(s) with respect to the appropriate pick and place points. The crane should be placed so the pick radius is as small as possible.

The presence of impediments that may restrict the crane’s movement complicates the selection of a suitable location for the crane.

You also want to avoid placing the crane near a slope that could be unstable or adjacent to a foundation that the crane’s ground weight could overload.

Ensure that the site you place the machine is safe and stable. Most rental companies will rent the crane based on the hours you use it, so ensure that you always properly prepare the site before renting it. As a rule of thumb, eliminate any distractions before you begin the lifting.

How will you get the crane to the site?

Now that you’ve decided on the type and size of crane you’ll use and where you’ll put it, it’s time to think about how you’ll get it there. It is preferable to make the site easily accessible.

When doing it for the first time, it’s wise to work with a crane rental services VA provider who will work with you to find the most cost-effective over-the-road route while keeping weight and height constraints in mind.

In most cases, you won’t find such a service provider on the first try. You may have to visit various companies before you find the right one. For peace of mind, the best approach is to begin your research at least three months before the date you want to commence your project.