According to OSHA, more than 250,000 crane operators and a large number of other workers, as well as the general public, are at risk of suffering an injury from one of more than 125,000 cranes currently in operation. Unfortunately, crane accidents typically result in serious injuries or even death. Whether you’re working from a dockyard crane or you’re working from a crane to repair a power line, you can suddenly become a victim of a serious accident through no fault of your own.

Providence, RI workers comp attorney Deborah G. Kohl  believes that the information from the federal agency should serve as an important reminder to employers and employees about how dangerous cranes can be. OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) in February 2013 announced an investigation into the collapse of a construction crane in Saratoga Springs, N.Y., according to a report in the Wall Street Journal. Fortunately, no one was injured when the crane toppled over at a hotel construction site, but there may have been violations of workplace safety regulations. OSHA’s investigation is looking into any possible infractions. Crane accidents often occur when safety rules are not followed to the letter. When injuries result due to negligence in Rhode Island or Massachusetts, experienced workplace accident lawyer Deborah Kohl is ready to help victims pursue the compensation they need.

OSHA Tips on Crane Safety

Recognizing how dangerous cranes can be, OSHA has provided extensive guidelines on crane operation and maintenance. OSHA has also published some important safety tips for crane operation. Some of these tips include the following:

• Allow only authorized and trained personnel to operate cranes.
• All crane parts and crane controls must be inspected by a designated and qualified person before the crane is used for any purpose.
• When operating, cranes must be level, and they must be located on a surface that is solid and stable.
• Pins should not be removed or unlocked during either assembly or disassembly until you have made sure that all sections are stable, secure and blocked.
• Before operating a crane, survey the area to determine if there are overhead electrical power lines.  There must be a distance of no less than 10 feet from the electrical power lines and the crane in order to ensure safety.
• The load chart capacity of the crane should never be exceeded. The correct load charge must be chosen and utilized given the current setup and configuration of the crane as well as the lift path.
• Before delivering the load, it should be raised slightly by a few inches, and it should be verified that the crane will hold.
• Loads should never be moved over the heads of workers.

These are just a few of the key tips that OSHA provides to protect those who are using cranes or who work in the environment where cranes are located. Following these tips is very important to protect workers and the public.

If you have been injured in an accident, contact an experienced workers compensation lawyer. Call 508-677-4900. The Law Offices of Deborah G. Kohl  serves clients in Providence, R.I., as well as Foxborough and Fall River, Mass.