Working Safely Spotters for overhead electrical lines must have completed an endorsed spotter training course by a registered training provider and be competent in the design
envelopes for the equipment/plant being used. Their familiarity with the actual lift plan for operation including any travelling or crawling with the load is crucial.
IF DISASTER STRIKES If contact with a power line or live electrical asset is made, the following steps outline what a crane operator should do:
1.
If safe to do so, remove the contact to the electrical source (i.e. boom down /reverse direction) if the controls are still active.
2.
Stay in the cabin (unless the crane is on fire). The electricity will pass around the driver into the ground. Call the relevant emergency number and follow instructions.
3.
If you are in imminent danger and do need to exit the crane cabin, jump well clear of the cabin and land feet together.
4.
Either shuffle without separating your feet or jump (feet together) clear until you are 10 metres away from the crane as the ground can be charged within a 10-metre radius of the crane.
5. 6.
Do not assist anyone injured near the load or power lines as they may still be in contact with high voltage and because electricity jumps from object to object, you don’t have to touch someone or something ‘live’ to get electrocuted. Call the emergency number if you have not done so already.
Construction is a high-risk activity and lives are at risk, so safety ‘best practice’ is imperative. If you need more information, don’t hesitate to contact The Crane Industry Council of Australia (CICA) at www.cica.com.au. LIFTING MATTERS
DECEMBER 2018
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