How Crane Riggers Improve Site Safety
Most people underestimate the need for riggers. However, these professionals are essential in ensuring safety at your construction site. This extract discusses how crane riggers improve safety on your construction site.
Familiarity with High-Risk Work
In Australia, riggers have a high-risk work licence. Simply put, they are familiar with the safety protocols needed to ensure that the site is risk-free. For instance;
- They examine the site for weak soils, overhead risks, and inadequate turning space for the trucks and plant equipment.
- They initiate traffic management plans to prevent plant equipment and trucks from colliding at the site.
- Riggers mark the site, erect barricades, and install safety signage to ensure everyone knows the prevailing risks.
- Riggers make sure that the cranes deployed are suitable for the site operations. For instance, they ensure that they meet the weight and height limits.
Crane Inspection
Crane riggers inspect the cranes before they commence operations at your site. Typically, these inspections aim to identify mechanical problems that could affect the crane's functionality. For instance, hydraulic issues could affect the crane's lift mechanism, while worn-out brakes could prevent the crane from braking instantly. Usually, crane inspections occur before every shift. The riggers write inspection records to help track the crane's repair and maintenance schedule. For example, if they identify a frayed cable wire during the morning shift, they regularly examine the wire to track the wear and determine when best to replace it. These thorough assessments guarantee that the crane is in excellent condition.
Assisting Operators
The crane riggers assist the operators as the crane hoists and lowers the loads. Ideally, they map out the crane's operating angle and the best locations to place and pick up the loads. The professionals also prepare the loads for the operator. Ideally, they ensure that they are within the crane's limits. Once the crane begins to move, the riggers keep in touch with the operator. They flag off the crane as it lifts loads and warn the operator of any risks at the site. For example, they could alert the operator of high wind speeds or incoming vehicles.
Ensuring Site Discipline
Most workers at the site do not comprehend how cranes work. Therefore, they will likely engage in risky behaviours that could endanger their lives at the site. For instance, they could cross the crane's blind spots or attempt to hoist themselves using the crane's hook. The rigger informs them about the crane safety measures to prevent accidents during crane operations.
Reach out to a rigging company for more information.