Tips for Every New Crane Operator

After extensive studying and hands-on training, you’re now officially a crane operator. Congratulations! You’re entering a promising new career.

Here’s why.

Research shows that jobs for material moving machine operators, such as the operators of cranes, will grow by 6% between 2016 and 2026.

Of course, even after training, operating a crane can be intimidating. If you’re a new crane operator, here are some tips to prepare you for your brand-new career.

Let’s get started!

Your Crane Operator Environment

When it comes to operating a crane, safety is your number-one priority. Always.

Therefore, for starters, make sure that your job site can support your crane and future loads before you get set up.

Also, be cognizant of any overhead hazards present in the area where you’re working. Specifically, make sure that power lines and nearby buildings are not in the way within your operating zone.

Along the same lines, continually survey your surroundings to see if your job site’s conditions have changed. Even a slight change may require you to change how you operate your crane. These changes may have to do with personnel at the site or even weather conditions.

Also, just as with cars on the road, avoid using your cell phone while you’re operating a crane. It’s a dangerous distraction that has no place in your crane’s cab.

Your Crane Planning

Before you turn your crane’s key, take time to review your equipment’s load chart. This chart essentially specifies how your crane’s lift capacity differs based on factors such as a certain angle and distance. By planning, you ascertain that you have enough capacity to complete your job.

Also, be flexible. Your plans could change from time to time. In fact, they probably will.

For instance, in some situations, you’ll have to stop and evaluate your lifting situation. If the situation calls for it, you’ll need to develop a safer lifting plan before proceeding with your job.

Your Crane Equipment

One of the biggest mistakes you can make as a crane operator is to overload your crane. Overloading your crane may lead to serious problems, particularly if your machine’s line is strained. In the end, the line may break.

Also, make sure that you’re using the proper cribbing and pads. Otherwise, an outrigger may sink or fail while you’re trying to make a lift.

Finally, before you embark on a job, don’t overlook the basics of crane maintenance. For instance, check your machine’s fluid levels, including the oil and gas levels, to make sure that you are not low.

Also, regularly inspect your crane equipment. You just may end up spotting hydraulic, structural, electrical or mechanical issues that could spell significant problems down the road if not resolved right away.

How We Can Help

We offer high-quality services that every crane operator will need at some point, ranging from crane modernizations/upgrades to overhead crane inspections.

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