MEETING OSHA COMPLIANCE STANDARDS FOR CRANES & DERRICK SAFETY
There are a wide variety of OSHA standards related to successfully and safely setting up cranes and derricks for construction projects. One of the most primary safety concerns is that such equipment will tip over, especially in instances where construction crews are operating on uneven grounds. Other concerns, meanwhile, relate to assembly and disassembly, inspections, fall protection, work area control, and much more.
When it concerns the layout of the terrain in particular, the U.S. Department of Labor notes that it is essential not to assemble or utilize a crane when ground conditions are unsafe. It’s important to ensure the ground is firm and/or drained, and for construction crews to rely on supporting materials.
CRANE AND DERRICK SAFETY WITH TIMBER MATS
In addition to timber mats (one of the most helpful solutions), other support mechanisms can include cribbing, blocking, and marsh buggies. Ground draining, however, is typically not possible, nor is warranted when crews are working in environmentally sensitive areas such as wetlands and marshes.
Construction site safety is essential, not only for the safety of employees (which is most important, of course), but also to ensure that projects are carried out efficiently and without any unneeded costs.
To learn about all the OSHA responsibilities related to setting up cranes and derricks, visit OSHA.gov. To see how the utilization of timber mats can help during your next construction project, contact Viking Mat Company today.