Toolbox Talk: Crane & Rigging Safety

Never stand under a load. Inspect rigging, know the weight and use signals and tag lines.

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First Day Training · Toolbox TalkTime: 5 to 10 minutes

Crane & Rigging Safety

Date
Job site / location
Talk leader

Why it matters

A falling load or a rigging failure can kill instantly. Most crane deaths involve struck-by, electrocution or collapse.

Talking points

  • Stay out from under loads: never stand or walk under a suspended load or in the swing radius.
  • Know the weight: find out the load's weight and the rigging's rating before lifting. Don't guess.
  • Inspect rigging: check slings, shackles and hooks before each use. Remove frayed, cut, kinked or damaged gear.
  • Use tag lines: guide loads with tag lines, not your hands, and keep clear of pinch points.
  • One signal person: use a qualified signal person with clear signals, and anyone may give a stop signal.
  • Power lines: keep cranes and loads at least 20 feet from lines up to 350 kilovolts, unless work is done under special procedures.

Ask the crew

  1. What is the weight of today's lifts, and how do we know?
  2. Where is the exclusion zone, and who will keep people out of it?
  3. Who is the signal person, and what signals do we use?

Before we start work today: Inspect the slings and hooks, and set up the exclusion zone before the first lift.

Who attended

Source: OSHA 1926 Subpart CC: Cranes and derricks in construction. General safety information only, not legal advice; follow your employer’s program, the manufacturer’s instructions and current regulations. Keep signed sheets with your safety records. FirstDayTraining.com · Todd Allyn Media Inc.

Learn more: Rigging Basics · Sling Inspection · Cranes & Power Lines

Standards & references

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