RIGGING AND CRANE SAFETY
1. Purpose:
The purpose of this Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) is to establish guidelines for rigging
and crane safety to ensure the safety of personnel and prevent accidents or injuries during
lifting and rigging operations.
2. Scope:
This SOP applies to all personnel involved in rigging and crane operations on-site.
3. Responsibilities:
- The Site Supervisor is responsible for identifying rigging and crane requirements for lifting
operations, ensuring that proper equipment is available, and overseeing safety during
rigging and lifting operations.
- The Safety Officer is responsible for conducting regular inspections of rigging equipment,
providing training on rigging and crane safety procedures, and enforcing safety protocols
during lifting operations.
- Personnel involved in rigging and crane operations are responsible for following the
procedures outlined in this SOP, using the appropriate equipment, and communicating
effectively during lifting operations.
4. Rigging and Crane Safety Procedures:
- Before starting any lifting operation, personnel must conduct a pre-use inspection of all
rigging equipment, including slings, shackles, and hooks, to ensure that they are in good
working condition and free from defects.
- Personnel must select the appropriate rigging equipment based on the weight and size of
the load, as well as the lifting requirements.
- Personnel must ensure that the load is properly rigged and balanced before lifting, and
that all rigging equipment is properly secured.
- Personnel must communicate effectively during lifting operations, using hand signals or
radio communication to coordinate movements and ensure the safety of all personnel
involved.
5. Crane Safety Procedures:
- Before using a crane for lifting operations, personnel must conduct a pre-use inspection of
the crane to ensure that it is in good working condition and free from defects.
- The crane operator must be trained and certified to operate the specific type of crane
being used for the lifting operation.
- The crane operator must follow all manufacturer's instructions and safety guidelines while
operating the crane, including maintaining a safe distance from power lines and obstacles,
and using proper hand signals to communicate with riggers.
- The crane operator must not exceed the maximum load capacity of the crane and must
always follow proper lifting and lowering procedures.
6. Emergency Procedures:
- In case of an emergency during a lifting operation, personnel must stop the operation
immediately and ensure the safety of all personnel involved.
- The Site Supervisor must initiate rescue procedures and contact emergency services if
necessary.
- Personnel must be trained on emergency procedures and must practice these procedures
regularly to ensure a timely and effective response.
