How to Minimize Human Error for Crane Safety

Do you know what lies behind those dangerous accidents that happen in industries that are related to crane operations? No, it is not the size or the weight of the equipment or the load that is the prime culprit. Neither is it about any problems in the workings of the machines that are to be blamed. It is mainly the human factor that overrides all others. Yes, it is the people who are in charge of the machines that are instrumental in causing these extremely damaging and life-threatening accidents.

How does human factor cause most of the crane accidents?

A crane is a machine. It is a very efficient machine with the ability and strength to go on performing the job for years without a hitch. However, crane accidents are run by human operators. It is these people who are responsible for the smooth and efficient functioning of the crane.

If the crane operator and other workers who work together on a crane are not physically or mentally fit for the job, it could cause many problems. Unless these people are physically, mentally and emotionally capable of managing the task, it could cause obstructions in the performance of the crane leading to accidents. Slight misjudgments, overconfidence in one’s own capabilities as well as the ability of the crane, misconception about efficiency being the same as haste or impatience, etc. can cause serious errors of judgment leading to untoward incidences.

What is the solution for avoiding human errors?

One of the best ways is to educate every person involved in the crane limit switch about crane safety and security of the crane as well as their own life. They should be imparted with a sound knowledge about the importance of taking precautionary steps before and during any crane operation. Testing and checking various parts and functions of the crane should be made mandatory to ensure they perform at their best.

Crane operators or other workers should never be allowed to consume alcoholic drinks before starting their work. They should always wear proper clothes, uniforms and other safety accessories such as helmets, etc. that are necessary for their work. The crane operators and workers should be prohibited from speaking about any other topic, particularly and emotionally stirring one, before or while performing the crane task. In case of any emotional disturbance or problems in their personal lives, they should not be allowed to perform the job.

Which crane safety systems are used nowadays?

Besides appointing knowledgeable and well-trained workers on the job, there are many crane safety devices such as the load cells, load limiter, crane scales, etc. which are commonly used to assist the crane workers get accurate feedback about the crane operation. This helps them avoid overloading the crane with excessive load and thus maintain safety.