Overhead Crane Operator Certification Safety Manual

By Harriett Crosby


The responsibilities that come with operating a crane are so great that any one intent on acquiring an Overhead Crane Operator Certification has to willing to accept them fully. An overview of the requirements is given below for one to follow. However, since every manufacturer has their own operations manual, one must be careful and read them for safety.

There are minimum levels one must pass so as to qualify to operate a crane. These include having a corrected vision similar to that required to have a driving license in any state. The effective use of all four limbs is required for this job and the individual has to be of adequate height so as to see whatever is happening on the area of operation. The coordination between eyes, hands and feet must be excellent at all time. One must be able to understand hands signals and read labels and warnings around, all these factors have to be assessed every three year

Adequate training and testing is required before a person operates a crane. Once the person passes the tests they must proficiently prove the ability to run the hoisting machine safely in all conditions. Only after this will the permit be issued and should be carried at all times.

The training includes capacities of cranes and what they can attach. One should know the purpose of each control and to what limit they operate. Daily checks training is a must for the machine's operation and one should understand the sequence of starting up like electrical, hydraulic and pneumatic. All start up and shut down including emergency procedures must be understood. A person should learn all basic signals like hands, radio and even telephone signals where necessary.

The required protective equipment should be like the gospel to every crane operator. One has to be on a head gear when on duty since this kind of machine lifts above 5 feet. Quality harness and lanyard must be worn so as to arrest any fall in case one happens to the one who is going to operate. Every safety measure must be taken for maximum safety.

The supervisor must perform a visual test for every hoisting machine operator before the start of every shift; any defect has to be reported for action. This applies to the crane, any seen defect in the operation need to be reported immediately like the rounds left on the hoisting drum. In case of a power failure, the controllers must be left in the off position.

Every this hoisting machine operator must ensure that any load attached to the crane is landed before they leave it unattended. And the controllers must be in the off position before leaving even for a short duration. Before switching off the main switch, always have the controllers in the off position and be safe all the time.

Always respond to all signals from the one directing from the ground. This can only be ignored in emergency stop signals from other employees around. Never carry any load over a person at any time. Overhead Crane Operator Certification requires the operator to be able to do inspections at his level on a regular basis to avoid accidents or faults. Preventive maintenance should be done regularly for the safety of the operator and those below and give the machine a longer life.




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