Precast Inc. - September/October 2008 - (Page 52) after operating a crane for some time. Here are some examples: • “The hoist has a brake, so I can work safely under the load.” • “There is enough rope in the hoist, so I am going to pull that box from the other side of the bay.” • “Let the other employees worry when I am moving a load.” • “The crane has a safety factor, so I can lift a few extra pounds.” • “If I need to stop quickly, I can always push the reverse button.” • “I have enough clearance to move the load.” These attitudes and misconceptions can lead to accidents if they are not corrected. 3. Semiannual or annual inspections according to usage and crane condition performed by an outside contractor OSHA requires some inspections to be visual and others to be certified, but it is recommended that all inspections be done in writing and signed and dated by the person(s) performing the inspections. Maintenance Cranes, like any other piece of equipment, need the required maintenance not only for safety reasons but also plant efficiency. In the precast industry, overhead cranes are one of the most important pieces of equipment. If they stop for mechanical breakdowns, production will suffer. Crane maintenance procedures should be established following the manufacturer’s guidelines, and they can be performed by qualified in-plant personnel or by outside contractors. One of the most important points to consider while operating a crane is to maintain control of the load and the equipment at all times. This means paying attention to your surroundings and avoiding any sudden movements that could create shock loads and/or dynamic loads in the hoisting equipment. Shock loads are generated when the load is moved or raised and lowered at fast speeds and suddenly stopped. This force adds to the weight of the load and could result in equipment damage or failure. Controlling dynamic loads becomes more important Inspections OSHA and ANSI regulations require that cranes be inspected on a regular basis according to their use. These inspections are classified as “frequent” and “periodic.” Frequent inspections are conducted at daily to monthly intervals, while periodic inspections take place at one- to 12-month intervals. A good compliance inspection program will include: 1. Daily inspections performed by the operator under OSHA 1910 (j) (1) and (j) (2) 2. Monthly inspections performed by a qualified person following OSHA 1910.179 (j) (2) and (j) (3) BOOTH 701 THE PRECAST SHOW 52 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2008 | PRECAST INC. http://www.preciseforms.com
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