OSHA 10-Hour Construction ReviewFocus Four HazardsHard
A crane is being used to hoist a heavy steel beam on a construction site. During the lift, the crane operator notices that the load is swinging uncontrollably due to wind. What is the MOST immediate action the crane operator should take to ensure safety?
- AAttempt to quickly lower the load to the ground.
- BIncrease the crane's speed to counteract the swing.
- CSecure the load with taglines and slowly bring it under control.
- DContinue the lift, hoping the swing will stabilize.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Secure the load with taglines and slowly bring it under control.
When a load is swinging, the most immediate and safest action is to use taglines to stabilize it and then slowly bring it under control. Rapid movements like quickly lowering or increasing speed can worsen the swing and increase the risk of an accident.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Quickly lowering the load can exacerbate the swing and make it more dangerous, potentially causing the load to strike something or someone.
- B. Increasing crane speed will likely worsen the uncontrolled swing rather than stabilize it.
- D. Continuing the lift with an uncontrolled swinging load is extremely hazardous and could lead to a catastrophic accident.
Crane Load Control (Swinging)
The procedure for safely managing and stabilizing an uncontrolled swinging load during crane operations.
- Swinging loads are a 'struck-by' hazard.
- Taglines are essential for guiding and controlling loads.
- Slow, deliberate movements are crucial to regain control.
Memory trick: When the load 'SWINGS', use the 'STRINGS'!