ALL SEASONS UNIFORMS | EXPERT COLUMN
However, amidst their utility lies a sobering reality: the inherent risks they pose to personnel. Recent findings from the Konecranes
SAFETY STANDARDS O
ELEVATING
Nick Warrick, sales manager at All Seasons Uniforms, discusses the critical role played by protective gear in overhead crane operations.
verhead crane operations are a linchpin in industrial settings, serving as the backbone of efficient material handling.
Training Institute underscore this reality, revealing that 249 industrial overhead crane incidents have occurred over the last decade. These incidents have resulted in 133 fatalities, with 37% of these victims crushed by loads. This data highlights the inherent risks associated with overhead crane operations and underscores the urgent need for enhanced safety protocols. Protective gear or personal protective equipment (PPE) emerges as a pivotal element in this equation, offering a shield against the daily hazards workers face, ensuring the safety of overhead crane operators and surrounding personnel.
This equipment is designed to mitigate risks and provide a defence against common hazards encountered in crane operations. Here are the essential types of protective gear tailored for these operators: Hard hats, safety glasses or goggles, hearing protection, high-visibility clothing, steel-toed boots, gloves, fall protection gear. Here are key guidelines for optimising the selection and use of protective gear in crane operations: Conduct a hazard assessment: Before selecting PPE, conduct a thorough hazard assessment of the crane operation area. Identify potential risks such as falling objects, electrical hazards, noise, and exposure to harmful substances. This assessment will guide the choice of appropriate protective gear tailored to specific hazards. Choose the right PPE for the job: Ensure that the gear meets or exceeds safety
Nick Warrick. Helmets should have the appropriate impact rating.
standards set by regulatory bodies. For instance, helmets should have the appropriate impact rating, and safety glasses should offer adequate protection against UV rays or chemical splashes. Ensure proper fit and comfort: PPE must fit properly to offer maximum protection. Ill-fitting gear can compromise safety and hinder the operator’s ability to perform tasks efficiently. You should also consider the comfort and ergonomics of the protective gear, as operators will wear it for extended periods. Provide training on PPE usage: It is crucial to train crane operators and other personnel on the correct use, maintenance, and limitations of their protective gear. This training should cover how to wear the equipment properly, when to use it, and how to recognize when it needs replacement. Regularly inspect and maintain PPE: Regular inspection and maintenance of PPE are essential to ensure its effectiveness. Set up a schedule for checking the condition of protective gear and replace any item that shows signs of wear and tear or damage. Keeping PPE in
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