Tool Box Talk
Crane & Hoist Safety
There are certain safety rules that must be followed
by everyone who works with or near lifting
equipment.
Nearby workers: First let’s talk about the safety
precautions for workers in the operating areas of
cranes or hoists but not directly involved with
their operation or use. Safety on the worksite as a
whole also requires alertness and caution of other
workers while a crane or hoist is in operation.
These workers must:
• Stay alert and pay attention to warning signals
from overhead hoisting equipment.
• Never stand or walk under a load, whether it’s
moving or stationary.
• Always warn others of moving and approaching
overhead loads.
• Never attempt to distract signal persons or
operators of the overhead equipment while they
are performing their jobs.
The operating team now let’s discuss the safety
rules for operators, signal persons, and hookup
crews.
They must:
• Check to see that the lifting tools & tackles,
equipment has been inspected and appropriately
colour coded .
• Test the warning signal or device to make sure it
is working properly.
• Never operate a crane that is unsafe.
• Check the brakes and all controls before starting
work.
• Never permit an unauthorized person inside the
crane operators cabin or to give the signals.
• Always be sure that the operator and signal
persons are in direct and clear view, or in
communication by radio.
• Never carry a load over other workers.
• Always use warning signals before and during
“N O O N E G E T S H U R T”
December 15,
15, 2007
moves.
• Lower any load that appears to be slung
improperly and adjust it.
• Always lock the main control in the off position
when oiling, adjusting, or repairing the equipment—
or have someone guard the control.
• Plan ahead, know the load, and never overload
the equipment.
• Make sure the weight does not exceed the safe
load limit assigned by the manufacturer.
• Choose the right type of sling for the job.
• Thoroughly inspect the sling before and after
use.
• Use correct lifting techniques and correct signals.
• Make sure that the person hooking on the load is
in complete agreement with the operator as to the
signals and where the load is to go.
• Take care that wind or weather will not affect the
safe operation of your crane or hoist.
• Properly clean, inspect, and store your sling in a
clean, dry, airy place off the ground when not in
use.
The work of riggers and hookup crews is extremely
important, because much of the safe operation of
cranes and hoists depends upon their knowledge and
skill.
All members of the crew must know their job
responsibilities and the project requirements and
procedures. Correct placement of the sling or
choker, or of the chain, contributes to safe lift, travel,
and positioning of the load. The placement controls
the balance and how the system will handle on the
hook throughout the operation.
Overall Safety , Safe operation of crane and hoisting
equipment requires efficient teamwork and a
thorough knowledge of the skills involved.
 Tool Box Talk
Safety Notes
December 15,
15, 2007

NEAR MISS INCIDENT

10 December 2007
A forklift operator misjudged the speed and distance to travel and struck a delivery
vehicle with the forks.

When newly trained operators are using equipment, supervisors should –

▪ Ensure the task is relative to the operator’s skill levels

▪ Not assign tasks in congested areas
▪ Discuss the hazards in the area that a new operator may not be familiar with

During the STARRT meeting, all equipment operators should be reminded of

driving requirements in the relevant work area.

FINGER INJURIES
During recent months, over half of the injuries have involved hand and fingers.
Take the time to consider the risks you are exposing your hands to, it is you who
controls your hands.

▪ Wear gloves appropriate to the task

▪ Watch out for pinch points
▪ Re-assess the hazards during the task

“N O O N E G E T S H U R T”