Crane Operations — General

Talking points

1. Only a certified, qualified operator may operate a crane. Certification is type-specific and capacity-specific, and must be renewed every five years.
2. Before each shift, the operator must perform a visual inspection and functional test. A competent person must perform a more thorough monthly inspection.
3. Maintain at least 20 feet of clearance from power lines up to 350kV. For lines over 350kV, greater distances apply per the voltage table.
4. A designated signal person is required whenever the operator cannot see the load or the landing zone. Use standard hand signals per OSHA requirements.
5. Know the crane's load chart — never exceed the rated capacity for the current configuration, radius, and boom length.

Ask the crew

What would you do if an operator asked you to guide a load near a power line?

Standards this talk is built on

• 29 CFR 1926.1400-1441

A toolbox talk is a short safety briefing. It supports the training a standard requires; it does not replace it.

Sign-in sheet

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