Port cranes rated to lift 40-80 metric tons move millions of containers each day. Maritime work is hazardous, and it’s estimated that the risk of fatal accidents is around 1 in 1000 for port crane operators. Outside the cranes at ports, other workers are moving around the docks, ships, and trucks doing their jobs while the cranes are in motion, also putting them at risk.
Companies can minimize risks and mitigate accidents by following safety protocols. Crane operators, owners, inspectors, and maintenance technicians share this responsibility.
In this brief guide, we’ll cover the top three areas of focus that will help improve overall safety regarding port cranes. This information saves lives and improves productivity.
1. Adequate Training
Port crane operators are more effective and efficient when their training goes beyond the functions of running the crane.
They should have a basic understanding of the crane’s mechanics and the roles of the people working below. This will help the operator understand what is likely to happen in unexpected events. It increases their ability to react correctly and potentially avoid disasters.
Crane operators also need to know the rules and limitations of OSHA’s Marine Terminal Material Handling Equipment regulations.
It’s helpful to have as many people as possible understand the regulations, so they will notice when something is wrong at marine terminals or with port crane equipment.
2. Port Crane Zone Awareness
Safety awareness must extend to everything and everyone in the immediate area of the port cranes and the marine terminal. The operator should have good habits of checking the surroundings before moving into action.
Workers on the docks and at the marine terminal should be aware of the cranes in motion at all times and be on the lookout for dangers. They should know emergency stop signals and also see where the signaler is.
3. Equipment Failure Prevention
Many port crane incidents, such as the collapse of ship-to-shore cranes in India, were likely avoidable. However, the actual cost of these incidents is often people’s lives, which is of utmost importance.
The downtime cost of mechanical problems and equipment failure affects the port crane team, the businesses involved, and consumers. In addition, it contributes to current global supply chain problems.
Additionally, it’s easier (and less costly) to manage preventative measures than to deal with a breakdown or malfunction. Inspections extend the life of your equipment and create a safer work environment.
Put Inspections to Work for You
Follow the above guide for effective port crane use, and be sure that your inspections are happening at the correct intervals. Consistent and thorough inspections are necessary for safe and effective port crane equipment. OSHA requires this for a good reason.
Whatever your inspections reveal, Kor-Pak Corporation is here to help with everything you need for your port crane or other industrial, marine terminal equipment. Contact us for a quote on parts or services today.