Training Tool for our Customers

1. Working With and
Around Our
Equipment
CANADIAN CRANE RENTALS
LTD.

2. The following is a basic overview of the hazards associated
with working with and around our equipment.
Canadian Crane Rentals strongly advises that their customers
train their workers in Hoisting and Rigging practices.
Canadian Crane Rentals along with the IHSA offer 2 day
Hosting and Rigging Basic Training Programs.
THINK SAFETY FIRST, PROVIDE YOUR WORKERS
WITH JOB SPECIFIC TRAINING IT COULD SAVE
THEIRS OR SOMEONE ELSE’S LIFE.

3. WHY SAFETY SHOULD BE
IMPORTANT TO YOU
• Accidents disable and kill
• Accidents cost
• Accidents can be avoided

4. Crane operation carries with it a greater
potential for disaster than nearly any
other activity on a construction project.
Crane accidents are often the most costly
construction accidents when measured
either in lives or in dollars. All personnel
involved in crane operations must
understand their jobs, their
responsibilities, and their part in the
overall safety of each lift.

5. OUR MISSION STATEMENT:
Canadian Crane Rentals is dedicated to providing their customers with top quality
equipment, safe, experienced, licensed hoisting engineers and the latest technology
equipment. We do this through our continuous safety training
programs, apprenticeship programs, annual inspections and preventative maintenance
programs

6. Training is crucial to improvement in worksite health and safety
Knowing how to safely use worksite equipment and materials is one of the most
important factors in accident prevention
THINK IT CAN’T HAPPEN TO YOU,
THINK AGAIN

7. 4 Killed Houston Refinery

8. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kUVnbJ2Rf5I
Four killed, dozen injured NYC

9. Operator only 22yrs old died due to
overloading and inexperience, BC

10. 2 Workers Killed, 5 Injured Miami
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TzBSgLV3G5A

11. In 2010, over 100 died from traumatic
injuries, and more than 57,000 workers
in Ontario suffered from injuries or
serious illnesses as a result of
dangerous hazards. They all lost time
at work. Some never completely
recovered or returned to their jobs or
families again.

12. In 2010 alone:
• 51 workers per day suffered from overexertion injuries while
lifting, pushing or pulling
• 43 workers per day suffered injuries like bruises, fractures or
concussions when struck by equipment
• 40 workers per day slipped, tripped or fell, resulting in injuries
ranging from minor sprains multiple fractures to paralysis
• 12 workers per day were exposed to harmful substances caused
conditions like skin disorders or respiratory illnesses
• 10 workers per day had a hand, arm leg or their entire body
crushed by or caught in equipment
• 1 worker per day suffered burns or smoke inhalation from fire or
explosions
These are just a few examples of some of the ways Ontario workers
get injured or become ill each day.

13. ON AVERAGE, ONE WORKER IN
ONTARIO DIES EVERY DAY FROM
EITHER A WORKPLACE INJURY
OR ILLNESS.

14. • Too often we read of crane and rigging accidents that cause death and
extensive property damage.
• The number of injuries involving cranes in the USA are estimated at 900
to 1,100 per year.
• In 2006, there were 72 crane-related fatal occupational injuries in the
USA.
• 2008 35 states had 97 crane incidents involving 57 deaths and 127
injuries
• Labours, Electrician & Welders were among the more likely to be killed
in crane-related incidents. Crane operators accounted for only 3
fatalities.

15. SUMMARY OF CONSTRUCTION
CRANE-RELATED DEATHS &
INJURIES, JANUARY TO DECEMBER
2008
*Involves incidents involving 88 mobile cranes, 7
tower cranes, 1 gantry crane and 1 crawler crane
DEATHS INJURIES
CONSTRUCTION
WORKERS
54 100
BYSTANDERS 4 15
RESUCE WORKERS -- 11
TOTAL 58 126

16. Causes of Crane-Related Deaths in
Construction, 1992-2006
0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180
Overhead power line electrocutions
Struck by crane load
Crane Collapses
Struck by crane boom/jibs
Falls
Struck by crane or crane parts
Caught in/between
Other causes
Total: 632 Deaths

17. SUMMARY OF ABOVE GRAPH:
• Overhead power lines electrocutions 157 deaths
• Struck by crane loads 132 deaths
• Crane collapses 89 deaths
• Struck by crane boom/jib 78 deaths
• Falls 56 deaths
• Struck by cranes or crane parts 47 deaths
• Caught in/between 30 deaths
• Other causes 43 deaths
TOTAL DEATHS: 632 BETWEEN 1992-2006

18. It is imperative that all workers who
prepare, use, and work with or around hoisting
and rigging equipment are well trained in both
safety and operating procedures.
MOST CRANE AND RIGGING
ACCIDENTS CAN BE PREVENTED BY
FIELD PERSONNEL FOLLOWING
BASIC HOISTING AND RIGGING
PRACTICES

19. TYPES OF CRANES WE OFFER OUR
CUSTOMERS
HYDRAULIC TRUCK
CRANES
BOOM TRUCKS

20. The crane operator is generally responsible for the
safety of the operation as soon as the load is lifted
clear of the ground. Whenever there is reasonable
cause to believe that the lift may be dangerous or
unsafe, the operator must refuse to proceed until
the concern has been reported to the
supervisor, any hazard has been corrected, and
safe conditions have been confirmed.

21. Main Causes of Worker
Deaths, by Frequency
• Electrocutions
• Struck by crane
load
• Crane collapse
• Struck by falling
boom/jib

22. Why Workers Died
25%
10%
13%
52%
1992-2006
Operating Crane
Other
Worker on foot touching crane
Worker on foot touching/ guiding
load cables
NUMBER OF DEATHS: 157
Overhead Power Line Electrocutions

23. Why Workers Died
14%
32%
7%
15%
32%
1992-2006
Flagging/ directing/ guiding
Loading/ unloading
Operating Crane
Other crane-related work
Worker not involved with crane
Number of deaths: 132
Struck By Crane Loads

24. Why Worker Died
12%
9%
14%
15%
50%
1992-2006
Overloading
Crane load/ boom shifted
Crane cables/ rigging/ stabilizers
broke
Uneven/ unstable or icy surface
Other/ unknown causes
Crane Collapses
Number of Collapses: 81
Number of Deaths: 89

25. Why Workers Died
56%
22%
13%
9%
1992-2006
Dismantling boom
Other
Boom/ boom cable broke
Lengthening boom
Number of Deaths: 64
Struck by Falling Booms/Jibs

26. HOISTING AND RIGGING
HAZARDS

27. HUMAN ERROR IS THE MOST
COMMON CAUSE OF CRANE
ACCIDENTS
It is imperative that all workers who prepare, use, and
work with or around hoisting and rigging equipment
are well trained in both safety and operating
procedures.

28. Top Hoisting and Rigging Hazards & Causes of
Accident
• Load Weight unknown
• Exceeding capacity of equipment
• Defective equipment
• Weather- high winds
• Visibility
• Powerlines #1 cause of fatalities
• Improperly rigged load
• Uncontrolled motion
• Overloading landing area
• Load not blocked when landed
• Pinch Points
• Poor Planning
• Lack of training and instruction

29. The single most important precautions in rigging and hoisting is
to determine load weight before attempting any lift
DETERMINING LOAD WEIGHTS
This information can be obtained through
• Shipping papers
• Design plans
• Catalogue data
• Manufacture’s specifications
When the above information is not available contractors will need to calculate the load
weight.
Good references for helping you determine load weights are the following:
• Hoisting and Rigging Safety Manual
• Rigger’s Pocket Guide
Both are available through the IHSA or our office

30. EXAMPLE: CALCULATING WEIGHT
SOLID STEEL CYLINDER
5 FT
Volume = π r² x h
= 3.14 x r x r x length
Weight
= 3.14 x r x r x L x unit weight (found
in the hoisting and rigging manual & rigger’s pocket
guide)
= 3.14 x 2.5’ x 2.5’ x 15’ x 490 (weight
of steel)
= 144, 243.75lbs

31. EXAMPLE: CALCULATING WEIGHT
6” dia
Wall thickness
3/8”
Circumference
= d
= 3.14 x .5 ft. = 1.57ft
Area
= Circumference x length
= 1.57 x 21
= 32.97
Weight
= area x wall thickness x unit weight
= 32.97 x 3/8” x 40lbs (weight of steel plate/ sq”)
= 494.55 lbs

32. LOAD RATING CHARTS
Operator's are trained to NEVER exceed their cranes manufacturer’s load ratings. The
stipulations noted in these charts must always be observed.
Ratings noted in these charts are based on a number of conditions such as
hydraulic, mechanical, structural, and/ or stability.
All our cranes are equipped with safe load indicators which are designed to alert our
operators if the lift is exceeding the safe operating range of the crane. Our operators will
refuse to conduct a lift that exceed their rated charts.

33. DEFECTIVE EQUIPMENT
Defective equipment can be extremely dangerous. Malfunctions or defects on
equipment that go uncorrected for long periods of time can create enormous hazards..
Routine maintenance is essentially important for the safety of everyone working with
and around heavy equipment. Canadian Crane has a rigorous routine maintenance
program to help ensure our equipment runs effectively and efficiently on all our
contractors job sites. All our operators are required to complete daily crane logs that
are available on-site for contractors to review. We have deficiency lists that operators
complete weekly and every crane is serviced bi-weekly. We also hire professional
engineers annual to certify all our cranes to ensure its structural integrity.

34. WEATHER
High wind speeds affect both the crane and the load, reducing the rated
capacity of the crane. Never make a full capacity lift if it’s windy.
All crane manufactures specify in the load chart that chart ratings must be
reduced under windy conditions, they also recommend a shut-down wind
velocity. Typically safe in-service winds are anything under 30mph for mobile
cranes, if the wind exceeds that it is advisable to stop operations. Although a
great deal of discretion should be used on lifts under moderate wind conditions
of 20mph
It is advisable to avoid handling loads that present large wind-catching
surfaces. The results could be loss of control of the load and crane even though
the weight of the load is within the normal capacity of the crane.
Use the table on the next page to understand details concerning maximum
permissible wind velocities.

35. Beauford Scale Designation MPHs K/H Inland
0 Calm 0-0.2 1 No wine, smoke rises vertically
1 Light Air 0.3-1.5 1 Wind direction shown by smoke but not by wine vanes
2 Light Breeze 1.6-3.3 6-11 Wind felt on face; leaves rustle, ordinary vanes moved
by wind
3 Gentle Breeze 3.4-5.4 12-19 Leave and small twigs in motion. Wind extends a light
flag
4 Moderate Breeze 5.5-7.9 20-28 Raises dust and loose paper, small branches are moved
5 Fresh Breeze 8-10.7 29-38 Small tress in leaf begin to sway. Crested wavelets form
on inland waters
6 Strong Breeze 10.8-13.8 39-49 Large branches in motion, telegraph wire whistle,
umbrellas used with difficulty
7 Moderate Gale 13.9-17.1 50-61 Whole trees in motion, inconvenient to walk against
wind
8 Fresh Gale 17.2-20.7 62-72 Breaks twigs off trees
9 Strong Gale 13.9-17.1 75-88 Slight structural damage to buildings. Chimney pots
and shingles removed.
10 Whole Gale 24.5-28.4 89-108 Trees uprooted, considerable structural damage to
buildings
11 Storm 28.5-32.6 103-117 Rarely experienced inland, accompanied by widespread
damage
12 Hurricane 32.7-36.9 118-133 Devastation occurs
WIND FACTORS

36. OTHER WEATHER FACTORS:
LIGHTENING: Pay attention to the daily forecast so you know what to expect
during the day. Also pay attention to early signs of thunderstorms: high winds, dark
clouds, rain, thunder or lightning. In the case of a lightening storm, the crane operator
will immediately stop work and lower their boom. The rule of thumb is to wait 30
minutes after the last audible thunder or visible flash of lightening to commence
outdoor work activities.
FACT
• 85% of the lightning strike victims are children and young men (10 to 35) engaged
in work & recreation.
• 70% of strikes happen between June & August
• 25% of lightning victims die
VISIBILITY: When the visibility of the riggers or hoist crew is impaired by
snow, fog, rain, darkness, or dust strict supervision must be exercised and if
necessary, the lift should be suspended.
COLD WEATHER: Be very careful to avoid impact (shock) loading

37. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=slEWQQ6TGr4
“BIG BLUE” the tallest crane in the world (almost 600 feet) fell at
the sports stadium under construction in Milwaukee of the baseball
stadium Miller Park at about 5:15 P.M. The 450 ton load coupled
with 30 mile an hour winds caused the gigantic tower crane’s
integrity to be compromised.
This accident is considered one of the largest crane accidents in
history considering the loss of life, injury and cost of damage.

38. POWER LINES
Nearly 30% of the approximately 350 electrical-related fatalities that occur each year
in the USA involve crane and overhead power lines. It is the largest single cause of
fatalities associated with cranes.
Here’s what contractors need to know:
 Look up!!! Pre-Job Plan, take care of the problem prior to the crane’s arrival to
prevent delays and prevent accidents. (Shut power off, more power lines, insulate or
rubberize lines)
 KEEP YOUR DISTANCE
 Use signallers (if there’s a possibility of a crane encroaching within the minimum
permitted distance assign a signalman)
 Use warning devices
 Avoid using tag lines (Unless it is necessary to prevent the load from spinning into
the min distance to a powerline)
 Develop a written plan and communicate it with everyone working on-site

39. POWER LINES
KEEP YOUR DISTANCE
Normal phase-to-phase voltage rating Minimum Distance
750 or more volts, but no more than 150,000 volts 3 metres
Over 150,000 volts, but no more than 250,000 volts 4.5 metres
More than 250, 000 volts 6 metres
Beware: The winds can blow power lines, hoist lines, or your load.
This can cause them to cross the minimum distance

40. WHAT IF YOU HIT A POWER LINE
 Stay on the equipment- Don’t touch the equipment and the ground at the same time.
Touching anything in contact with the ground can be fatal
 Keep others away- No one else should touch the equipment or its load
 Break contact- If possible while remaining inside the machine- the operator should
try to break contact by moving the equipment clear of the wires.
 Call the local utility- Get someone to call the local utility for help
 Report the contact- Report every incident of electrical contact to the local electrical
utility they’ll check for damage that could cause the line to fail later
 Inspect the crane- The crane must undergo a complete inspection for possible
damage caused by electrical contact.
BAIL-OUT PROCEDURE
If you have to leave the machine, jump clear. NEVER be in contact with the ground a
machine at the same time. The ground is hazardous so the worker should jump with
their feet together, maintain balance and shuffle slowly across the affected area. DO
NOT take large steps because it is possible for one foot to be in a higher voltage
area, the difference can kill.

41. RIGGING
As mentioned earlier, all too often we read of crane and rigging accidents that cause
death and extensive property damage. Most crane and rigging accidents can be
prevented by filed personnel following basic safe hoisting and rigging practices.
Many types of cranes, hoists, and rigging devices are used for lifting and moving
materials around projects. The mission of our safety program is to maintain a safe and
healthy environment for Canadian Crane Rentals employees, Contractors, Subcontracts
and visitors. Therefore it cannot be overemphasized that only qualified and competent
individuals shall be designated to operate these devices.
The rigger must be trained, experienced and competent. They must know how to
• Establish weights
• Judge distances, heights and clearances
• Select tackle and hardware suitable to the load
• Rig the load safely
• Be knowledgeable with hand signals

42. RIGGING CONT’D
GENERAL RIGGING SAFETY:
Only select rigging equipment that is in good condition. All rigging equipment shall be inspected annually; defective equipment
is to be removed from service and destroyed to prevent inadvertent reuse. The load capacity limits shall be stamped or affixed to
all rigging components.
The following types of slings shall be rejected or destroyed:
Nylon Slings with
• Abnormal wear
• Torn stitching
• Broken or cut fibers
• Discoloration or deterioration
Wire-rope slings with
• Kinking, crushing, bird-caging, or other distortions
• Evidence of heat damage
• Cracks, deformation, or worn end attachments
• Six randomly broken wires in a single rope lay
• Three broken wires in one strand of rope
• Hooks opened more than 15% at the throat
• Hooks twisted sideways more than 10deg. From the plane of the unbent hook
Alloy steel chain slings with
• Cracked, bent, or elongated links or components
• Cracked hooks
Do not use shackles, eye bolts, turnbuckles, or other components that are damaged or deformed.

43. RIGGING CONT’D
When rigging a load the rigger must:
• Determine the weight of the load DO NOT GUESS
• Determine the proper size for slings and components
• Do not use manila rope for rigging
• Make sure that shackle pins and shouldered eye bolts are installed in accordance with the
manufacturer’s recommendations
• Make sure that ordinary (shoulderless) eye bolts are threaded in at least 1.5 times the bolt
diameter
• Use safety hoist rings (swivel eyes) as a preferred substitute for eye bolts wherever
possible.
• Pad sharp edges to protect slings. Remember that machinery foundations or angle-iron
edges may not feel sharp to the touch but could cut into rigging when under several tons of
load. Wood, tire rubber, or other pliable materials may be suitable for padding
• Do not use slings, eye bolts, shackles, or hooks that have been cut, welded, or brazed
• Install wire-rope clips with the base only on the live end and the U-bolt only on the dead
end. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the spacing for each specific wire
size.
• Determine the center of gravity and balance the load before moving it.
• Initially lift the load only a few inches to test the rigging and balance.

44. RIGGING CONT’D
SLING CONFIGURATIONS:
The single vertical hitch can be used to support a load by a single vertical part or leg of the
sling. The total weight of the load is carried by a single leg; the angle of the lift is 90° and
the weight of the load can equal the maximum safe working load of the sling and fittings.
The end fittings of the sling can vary, but thimbles should be used in the eyes. This sling
configuration must not be used for lifting loose or lengthy material, or anything that will be
difficult to balance. It should only be used on items equipped with lifting eyebolts or
shackles. The single vertical hitch provides absolutely no control over the load because it
permits rotation.

45. RIGGING CONT’D
Two, three or four single hitches can be used together to form a bridle hitch for hoisting
an object that has the necessary lifting lugs or attachments. A bridle hitch can be used with
a wide assortment of end fittings. It provides excellent load stability when the load is
distributed equally among the legs, the hook is directly over the center of gravity of the
load, and the load is raised lever. To distribute the load equally, it may be necessary to
adjust the leg lengths with turnbuckles. The sling angles must be carefully determined to
ensure that the individual legs are not overloaded.

46. RIGGING CONT’D
Unless the load is flexible, it cannot be assumed that a three- or four- leg hitch will safely lift a
load equal to the safe load on one leg multiplied by the number of legs. Each leg may not be
carrying its share of the load; with slings having more than two legs and a rigid load, two of
the legs may be taking most of the load while the others are only balancing it.

47. RIGGING CONT’D
SINGLE BASKET HITCH
A single basket hitch can be used to support a load by attaching one end of a sling to a
hook, wrapping the sling around the load, and securing the other end to the hook. It
cannot be used on a load that is difficult to balance because the load can tilt and slip out
of the sling. Loads having inherent stabilizing characteristics will be automatically
equalized with each leg supporting half the load. Ensure that the load does not turn or
slide along the rope during a lift, because both the load and rope will be damaged.

48. RIGGING CONT’D
DOUBLE BASKET HITCH
A double basket hitch consists of two single basket hitches passed under the load in
such a way that it is properly balanced. The legs of the hitches must be far enough apart
to provide balance but not so far apart that excessive angles develop or the legs tend to
be pulled in toward the center. On smooth surfaces, both sides of the hitches should be
snubbed against a step or change of contour to prevent the rope from slipping as the load
is applied. The angle between the load and the sling should be approximately 60° or
greater to avoid slippage.

49. RIGGING CONT’D
DOUBLE-WRAP BASKET HITCH
A double–wrap basket hitch is a basket hitch that is wrapped completely around the
load, rather than just supporting as does the ordinary basket hitch. Like the double
basket hitch, it can be used in pairs. The double-wrap basket hitch is excellent for
handling loose material, pipe, rod or smooth cylindrical loads because the rope or
chain is in full 360° contact with the load and tends to draw it together.

50. RIGGING CONT’D
SINGLE CHOKER HITCH
A single choker hitch forms a noose in the rope that tightens as the load is lifted. Because
it does not provide full 360° contact with the load, it should not be used to lift loose
bundles form which material can fall or loads that are difficult to balance. The single
chocker can also be doubled up (not to be confused with the double chocker hitch) as
shown, to provide twice the capacity or to turn a load.

51. RIGGING CONT’D
DOUBLE CHOKER HITCH
A double choker hitch consists of two single chokers attached to the load and spread
to provide load stability. Like the single choker, they do not grip the load
completely, but because the load is less likely to tip, they are better suited for handling
bundles, pipes, rods, etc.

52. RIGGING CONT’D
DOUBLE-WRAP CHOKER HITCH
A double-wrap choker hitch is one in which the rope or chain is wrapped
completely around the load before being hooked into the vertical part of the sling.
The hitch is in full contact with the load and tends to draw it tightly together. It can
be used either singly on short, easily balanced loads, or in pairs on longer loads.

53. RIGGING CONT’D
Sling Angles The rated capacity of a sling depends on its size, its configuration, and
the angles formed by the legs of the slings with the horizontal. A sling with two legs
that is used to lift a 1000-pound object will have a 500-pound load in each leg when
the sling angle is 90°. The load in each leg will increase as the angle is decreased, and
at 30° the load will be 1000 pounds in each leg.
Sling angles should be greater than 45°.
Those approaching 30°should be
considered extremely hazardous and
avoided at all costs.
http://kickinteractive.com/dc/units/6_0/slingangles.html

54. CENTRE OF GRAVITY
• The point at which the load will balance
• Whole weight of the load is considered concentrated at this balance point
• When suspended from a point, the load tends to move so that the center of gravel
is directly below the point of support
• Make sure the center of gravity is located directly below the hoisting hook
When the centre of gravity is closer to one sling attachment point than the other, the
sling legs must be of unequal length, which means that their angles and loads will
also be unequal.
When a lifted load tilts and rigging is not corrected, the tension will sharply increase
on one sling leg and decrease on the other. If any load tilts more than 5 after it is
lifted clear of the ground it should be landed and rigged over again.

55. RIGGING CONT’D
ATTACHING THE LOAD
• When attaching the load, you must first determine which hitch to use. A hitch is the way
the sling is configured to connect the load to the hook.
• The basket hitch is the most commonly used type of hitch. To make a basket hitch, put the
sling around the load and then put both ends of the sling over the hook.
• To create a choker hitch, wrap the sling around the load and place one end of the sling
through the other. Then tighten it down and secure the load.
• If a regular choker hitch won’t keep the load tight enough, use a “double wrap” choker
hitch. Wrap the sling around the load twice, then loop the end through the opposite end
shackle and attach it to the hook.
• Vertical hitches are used on loads equipped with lifting attachments, such as eyebolts. With
this hitch, the hoist hook is first connected to the sling and the sling is then attached
directly to a lifting attachment on the load.
• Like slings, choosing which hitch to use is affected by the weight, size and shape of the
load.
• You should always use some type of sling no matter what type of job you are doing. Never
wrap the hoist rope itself around a load because the rope, hook or load could be damaged.

56. RIGGING CONT’D
SLING ANGLES
• When two slings are needed to balance the load, you need to pay particularly close
attention to the sling angles (the angles between the slings and the load itself).
• A sling angle of 90 degrees is ideal because it puts the least stress on the load. As the sling
angle decreases the force exerted on the sling increases.
• For example, if you are using two slings to lift a load that weighs 2,000 pounds at sling
angles of 90 degrees, each sling would have to support half of the weight (1,000).
• Your supervisor can give you a chart that lists the “sling angle factor” for various sling
angles. By multiplying the sling angle factor by half of the weight, you can determine what
the weight capacity of each sling must be if you are using two slings.
• If the sling angles are 60 degrees, the sling angle factor increases to 1.155. Multiply this by
half the load’s weight of 1,000 pounds and you then know that each sling must be rated for
1,115 pounds at this angle.
• Sling angles of less than 45 degrees should be avoided altogether because they put an
unsafe amount of stress on the slings.

57. RIGGING CONT’D
LIFTING & MOVING THE LOAD
• Keep in mind that cranes are only intended to lift loads straight up and down. If you lift a load
diagonally, you could cause structural damage to the crane.
• Make sure the crane is directly over the load before you lift. Verify that the load is rigged above its
center of gravity.
• Make sure the weight of the load plus all of the equipment that you are using does not exceed the
crane’s weight capacity. Check the load chart or other documentation that will tell you the crane’s
limits.
• As you lift, pay attention to the angle of the load. It should not exceed 10 degrees from horizontal.
• The next step is to move the load. Moving the load is often easier if you use “taglines”. Taglines
are ropes that can be used to control and position a load.
• Put tension on the tagline to prevent the load from spinning while the crane is in motion.
• Direct the load to its designation. Maneuver the load into tight places.
• Be sure to ask the crane operator to use very slow speeds when traveling with a load. This will help
you safely guide it to its destination and help the operator to see where he is going.
• Make sure the crane operator stops periodically so that you can check to see that everything is still
secure. Watch out for sudden starts and stops that could unbalance the load.
• To prevent injury, be careful not to direct a load over people or allow anyone to walk under it.

58. RIGGING CONT’D
LOWERING/LANDING THE LOAD
• Never leave a suspended load unattended. Always have the crane operator land the
load when it gets to a stopping point or its final destination.
• Make sure to help the crane operator to lower the load slowly. Direct the operator
to stop a few inches from the landing point to verify that the load is secure and that
nothing is in its path.
• Then have the load lowered the rest of the way.
• After the load has been landed, remove the slings from the hook and return them to
the proper storage place.
• If the slings are left on the hook, they could snag on other objects when the crane is
moved.
• Make sure that the operator raises the hook high enough that no one will hit his or
her head.

59. TAG LINE
OHSA
179 (1) If a worker may be endangered by the rotation or uncontrolled
motion of a load being hoisted by a crane or similar hoisting device, one or
more guide ropes or tag lines shall be used to prevent the rotation or
uncontrolled motion
(2) No guide rope or tag line shall be removed from a load referred to in
subsection (1) until the load is landed and there is no danger of it tipping,
collapsing or rolling.

60. 50% of all mobile crane accidents are the result of
mistakes made when the crane was being set up
Contractors that require cranes are as responsible for its
safe operation as the operator
Working areas need to be prepared for the crane. If
the working area is unsafe the operations of the crane
will be unsafe no matter how skilled or experienced
the operator is.

61. OUTRIGGERS
As mentioned earlier, stats show that 50% of crane accidents occur
because the mobile crane or outriggers are not set-up properly.
Specific hazards that can cause or contribute to failure or collapse
include:
• Failure to extend the outriggers fully
• Not extending all outriggers
• Failure to get completely “off rubber”
• Not accounting for poor ground conditions
• Failure to level crane
What can you as a contractor do to prevent outrigger failure?
• Be sure you know or can calculate the weight of each load properly.
• Check ground conditions and blocking materials frequently to make
sure crane remains on firm stable ground
• Provide a level spot for the crane to set up
• Allow crane proper clearance to fully extend all outriggers

62. DANGER AREAS
SWING RADIUS–PINCH POINT CLEARANCE
When the crane is in operation, maintain a minimum clearance of 30
inches (76 centimeters) between the swing radius of the crane
superstructure or counterweights and any stationary object. When
this clearance cannot be maintained, isolate pinch point hazards with
barricades or safeguards. Where possible, flag or barricade the
swing radius.

63. NEVER walk or work under a
suspended load
NEVER load the crane beyond
the specifications of the load rating
chart.
Total load always includes the lifted item
and the rigging, crane hook, block and
load line may also be considered part of
the load.

64. THINGS TO THINK ABOUT WHEN PREPARING THE SITE FOR
A CRANE:
• Can the machine get onto the site?
• What path will the crane have to take?
• Is there room for the crane to maneuver in it’s designated area?
• Will an area be designated and roped off?
• Has the crane’s position been identified for every lift?
• Are operating areas, graded, compacted, and levelled?
• Will clearance and visibility be problems where other cranes, hoists, or
equipment will be operating?
• Will crane operating areas be away from public traffic and access?
• Have operators been warned and have provisions been made to keep
cranes from working within a boom’s length of powerlines without
a) Shutting off power
b) Having powerlines insulated or
c) Providing signallers to warn the operator when
approaching limits

65. Signallers must be competent and capable of directing the crane and
load to ensure safe, efficient operation. Knowledge of the hand
signals for hoisting is a must, as it is for our operators.
Signalling is an important part of crane operation, but is often not
treated with the respect it deserves. Signallers must be used
whenever
• The operator cannot see the load
• The operator cannot see the load’s landing area
• The operator cannot see the path of travel of the load or the crane
• The operator is far enough away from the load to make the
judgement of distance difficult
• The crane is working within a boom’s length of the approach
limits to powerlines or electrical equipment.
SIGNALLING

66. The slinger/ signaller is responsible for the attaching and
detaching of loads to and from the crane load lifting
attachment and ensuring that the correct accessories are used
for that operation in accordance with the planning of the
operation.
SIGNALLING
2- way radios can be of value
for almost all signalling
operations
The Signaller must stay clear of
the intended path of travel and
shall be in full view of the
operator

67. TANDEM LIFTS
Lifts involving two of more cranes are complex operations requiring considerable
skill and planning. As a result, multiple crane lifts (tandem lifts) must be planned
and carried out under the supervision of a competent person.
The competent person, must develop and communicate a detailed lift plan which
contains, but is not limited to, the following:
 Crane positioning
 Rigging
 Lift Sequence
 Movement of the load (the longest radius of each crane for the complete operation must
be measured exactly)
 Load weight and distribution
 Boom lengths and angles
 Environmental consideration
 Rated capacity of each crane for the whole operation (no crane should be loaded to more
than 75% of its net capacity)
Canadian Crane Rentals will use a critical lift plans for every tandem lift to help ensure safe
working procedures regarding the lift are communicated to everyone on-site.

68. CRITICAL LIFT PLANS
Without sufficient planning and supervision, crane accidents can happen. If something goes wrong
on a construction site involving a crane, the consequences are likely to be disastrous. As mentioned
above, accidents involving cranes often result in severe damage to property with risk of injury or
loss of life.
Good planning protects cranes and the people working around them. Before making a critical lift, a
lift plan should be prepared by the site supervisor, rigger, and crane operator and communicated to
everyone onsite.
The plan should be documented in writing and include the following information:
• Description of the lift
• Crane position and configuration
• Lift height
• Boom length and angle
• Size of weight of the load
• Percent of crane’s rated capacity
• Personnel involved
• Rigging plan
• Communication method
• Ground Communication
• Environmental conditions
• Inspection procedures
• Procedures for hoisting personnel
WE HAVE GENERIC CRITICAL LIFT PLANS IN EVERY CRANE

69. ELEVATED WORK PLATFORM (MANBASKET WORK)
Hoisting a personnel in a manbasket should be used when there is no
safer, practical conventional means of access to an elevated work area.
Contractors using manbasket must know the following:
• The crane cannot be used to hoist material while the manbasket is being used to
support a worker.
• Every worker using the basket must wear a full body harness with shock
absorber and be trained in Fall Arrest
• Means of communication must be determined between the workers and operator
(hand signals or radios are ideal)
• Emergency rescue plan drawn up and communicated in writing to all workers
involved in the hoisting operation.
• Before beginning any hoisting operation under this section, the constructor shall
notify by telephone an inspector in the office of the MOL nearest the project.
• A critical lift plan must be used when using a suspended manbasket (we supply
the lift plan)
***Canadian Crane Rentals calls in every manbasket job to the MOL prior to being
dispatched out.
For more information on elevated work platforms see section 153 of the OHSA
Construction Regs.

70. IN ORDER TO DISPATCH THE RIGHT CRANE FOR YOUR JOB, BE
PREPARED TO ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS:
 Tell us what the object is we’re lifting (dimensions are a great help!)
 Tell us the weight of the object (this is extremely important)
 Description of the job, what are we doing?
 Be prepared to tell us the distances (how far, how high, how close can we sit, etc.)
 Are there hydro wires on site?
 Special rigging required (chokers, spreader bars, belts?)
 Is a manbasket required (we don’t bring one unless a customer request it)
 Job location and job/rental date and time
 Site Supervisors Name and # (this helps us notify the site if we have an unexpected
issue arise)

71. Canadian Crane Rentals is dedicated to providing their customers with top quality, safe,
licensed Hoisting Engineers and the latest, leading edge technology equipment. We do this
through our continuous job specific safety training programs, subcontractor safety programs,
safety talks, safety groups, recognition award programs, apprenticeship programs, annual
inspections and preventative maintenance programs. We offer our customers 3 generations
of knowledge, experience and skills.
We have worked hard throughout the years to develop a great working rapport with our
customers & have built a strong reputation for being reliable, knowledgeable & safe.
We are also dedicated to helping keep the employees of our customers safe. Most crane and
rigging accidents can be prevented by field personnel following basic hoisting and rigging
practices.
We thank you for taking the time to review our safety program for working with and around
our equipment.

72. Each month we email our customers safety talks specific to working with our
equipment. Please let us know if you wish to be added to our monthly safety
talks email list.
We also offer our customers safety policies for hoisting and rigging and working
with and around cranes. Please let us know if we can assist you with any other
safety policies or procedures specific to working with and around our equipment.

73. THANK YOU!

74. BIBLIOGRAPHY:
1. Hoisting and Rigging Safety Manual: CSAO
2. Safety Manual For Operating and Maintenance Personnel: Association of Equipment
Manufacturers.
3. Hoisting Engineer Training Materials: Durham College
4. Hoisting and Rigging Basic Safety Training Program: CSAO
5. Construction Health and Safety Manual: CSAO
6. Crane Accidents: www.craneaccidents.com/
7. WSIB: Prevent-It.ca
8. U.S. Bureau of Labour Statistics: www.bls.gov/