If you run a business with overhead lifting needs, you may have some heavy equipment like cranes. These tools may not seem too complicated to operate but there are a lot of factors one should consider before using them. It’s in the best interest of the business owner, supervisor and employees, to make sure overhead crane operator training is provided to everyone using the equipment. Here are some reasons to consider this type of program.
Safety
When you lift heavy items in the air, bad things can happen if someone does not know what he or she is doing. Most lifting accidents happen because someone made a mistake and did not know the right procedure. Proper education is essential for the following reasons:
* The more your people know about operating cranes, the safer they will be.
* Fewer mistakes translate into less downtime.
* Less downtime translates into greater efficiency and higher profits.
* Accident frequency can be lowered.
* Some accidents can be prevented.
* Knowledge – studying different types of accidents can help you learn from the mistakes of others. For example, one should never take his or eyes off the load, because you never know what could happen.
Crane Operator Training Subjects
* Components and their functions -one should be familiar with all the parts and components, to understand proper operation.
* How to perform a proper inspection – by doing a thorough inspection each day, simple problems can be spotted before they turn into major issues.
* Minimum requirements and qualifications to operate cranes
* Safety rules and regulations
* Learn about the different types of cranes
* Preventing load swing – once a heavy load swings in one direction major problems can develop.
* How to properly lift and locate materials
* Hand signals
* How to safely and properly hook up loads – unless the load is secured right, it is not safe.
Who Should Take Crane Operator Training?
Anyone in your organization who is or may be operating cranes, should have the right kind of training and this includes:
* New hires
* Crane operators
* Seasonal employees
* Supervisors
Qualifications
Some crane operator training courses may have different qualifications, but here are some you may expect to see:
* Age – 18 years old
* Physical requirements – must be able to us equipment with no limitations. You may need a medical certificate.
* Drug testing
* Understand code of ethics
* Written exam
* Practical exam – actually using the equipment
