Personnel Safety & Operating Environment
Pedestrian clearance, spotter duties, communication with riggers, warning devices, riding hooks, suspended loads, cab safety, parking, duty cycle, and environmental considerations.
- Describe pedestrian clearance and warning device requirements
- Explain spotter duties and rigger communication protocols
- Identify prohibited practices including riding hooks and suspended load storage
- Apply proper cab safety and parking procedures
- Understand duty cycle ratings and environmental considerations
Lesson 1
Pedestrian Clearance, Warning Devices & Aisle Safety
Bridge Travel Warnings
The bridge travel warning method is to sound the crane horn or audible warning device before and during bridge travel when personnel may be in the path. The operator must alert all personnel in the area before moving the crane. Many facilities also use flashing lights and painted floor markings to define crane travel zones.
The reason to use warning lights and sirens on a traveling bridge is to alert pedestrians that the bridge is moving overhead so they can clear the path. In noisy industrial environments, visual warnings (flashing lights) supplement audible warnings because personnel may not hear a horn over ambient noise.
Aisle and Obstruction Clearance
The requirement for aisle and obstruction clearance is that the crane operator must ensure adequate clearance between the load and all fixed objects, building columns, stored materials, and personnel walkways. Loads must never be carried over areas where personnel regularly walk unless the area is barricaded or a spotter is positioned to keep people clear.
Trolley Travel Over Personnel
Trolley travel is allowed over personnel only when the load path has been cleared and no one is directly below, or when an empty hook is being repositioned. A loaded crane should never travel over personnel unless specifically permitted by site procedures with appropriate safeguards.
Sound the horn before every bridge movement. Use warning lights and sirens in noisy environments. Maintain adequate clearance between loads and fixed objects or personnel. Never carry loads over unprotected personnel.