Cranes and hoisting apparatus such as chain falls, winches, and marine
railways,
and their accompanying rigging gear, are used to move and lift materials and
equipment during shipbreaking operations. Moving heavy loads in
congested areas increases risk of injury.
Rigging methods and equipment
are used to attach heavy loads
to lifting devices (cranes, derricks, or chain falls). Rigging equipment may include ropes, chains, or synthetic webbing
slings, which connect the loads to lifting machinery by means of hooks or
shackles. Inadequate rigging methods or components may result in the load
detaching and injuring workers.
Serious injuries may result from:
- Equipment failure.
- Improper use of equipment.
- Getting caught between.
- Getting struck by loads or rigging gear.
The following topics are included in this section:
Note: Confined space entry is one of the leading
hazards associated with barge cleaning. Review the
Shipbreaking: Confined/Enclosed
Spaces and Other Dangerous Atmospheres
chapter for information on how to protect workers from this hazard. |

Figure 1: Portal Crane
(a type of locomotive crane).

Figure 2: Mobile crane used without its outriggers (for stability) and without its swing radius
guarded.

Figure 3: Locomotive crane on side of pier. |