Cranes are an essential part of many construction projects, but they can also pose significant risks if not operated and maintained correctly. That’s why it’s crucial for every construction worker to be well-versed in crane safety practices. With a bit of safety knowledge now, you can help prevent crane accidents the next time you work on a construction site.
QUICK TIPS TO HELP PREVENT CRANE ACCIDENTS
Crane accidents on construction sites can have catastrophic consequences, leading to severe injuries and even fatalities. The most effective way to prevent severe injuries or deaths in crane accidents is to stop accidents from happening in the first place. By making sure everyone on a construction site knows basic crane and job site safety, the risk of a crane accident can be significantly reduced.
Four safety tips that every construction worker should know to prevent crane accidents are:
- Regular inspections: Regularly inspecting the crane equipment is a must. This includes checking the mechanical parts, the load-bearing capacity, and any wear and tear. Any faults should be immediately reported and rectified.
- Proper training: Operators should be adequately trained and certified to handle the crane machinery. They should understand the equipment’s capacity limits, know how to respond to potential issues, and be aware of the safety procedures.
- Clear communication: Good communication is key while operating heavy machinery like cranes. Workers should use standard signals or radios to communicate clearly with each other, especially during lifting and moving loads.
- Safety equipment: Always use the necessary safety equipment. This includes hard hats, safety glasses, and high-visibility clothing. Also, ensure that the crane itself has all the required safety features.
- Weather check: In some instances, it will be necessary to check the weather before starting crane operations for the day. During high winds and inclement weather, operating a crane can become too unpredictable to be safe, so that part of the construction job will need to be postponed.
What to Do After a Crane Accident
If you are a construction worker and unfortunately get injured in a crane accident, the first thing to do is seek immediate medical attention. Ensuring your health and safety should be your top priority. Once you are medically stable, report the incident to your employer. If you have workers’ compensation coverage, you may be entitled to benefits. However, not all construction workers are covered by workers’ compensation. In such cases, it’s advisable to consult with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible to understand your options for pursuing compensation.
Legal Counsel After a Crane Accident
Keith Silverstein & Associates is a New York City law firm that focuses on providing legal counsel for injured construction workers, including those involved in crane accidents. Our dedicated, experienced, and aggressive legal team is always ready to support survivors of crane accidents and the family members of construction workers who lost their lives in crane accidents. With our long history of securing significant settlements and verdicts for clients, you can be confident in trusting your claim to our team.
Don’t miss your chance to seek compensation after a crane accident in NYC. Call (646) 813-3922 to request a free initial case consultation.
