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OSHA Occupational Safety and Health Administration
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Process: Rigging

 

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Hazard: Traumatic/Acute Injury

Case History

Two riggers were helping a portable crane operator unload steel. One of the riggers paused to talk with a supervisor. Unfortunately, the rigger was standing inside the swing radius created by the movement of the counterweight. Shortly after the conversation ended, the crane swung around and fatally crushed the rigger.

four graphics - portable crane operator unload steel

Source: OSHA Video: Examining Fatal Shipyard Accidents

Analysis and Preventive Measures

Several unsafe factors contributed to this worker's death. First, there was no barricade to prevent workers nearby from crossing into the swing radius of the crane (1915.115(d)). Also, the crane operator and the riggers did not keep in visual contact throughout the entire process. Another contributing factor was the lack of audible (able to be heard) signals or horns on the crane which could have alerted nearby workers that the crane was in motion.

Barricade around swing radius
Keep visual contact with helpers at all times
Install audible signals on cranes

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