As the most commonly used lifting equipment on construction sites, tower cranes are used to lift materials and raw materials such as steel bars, wooden planks, and scaffolding pipes for construction. They are essential equipment for construction. Because they are connected section by section to form an iron tower, they are also called “tower cranes.”

During the construction of tower cranes, safety is a matter that needs special attention. Among them, the following ten dangerous operations are the source of frequent accidents and must be strictly prohibited:

1.Overloading

Exceeding the rated load capacity of the tower crane during lifting operations is extremely hazardous. For example, if a tower crane is rated to lift 10 tons but is made to lift 15 tons of materials, it can cause severe damage to the crane’s structure. The excessive load may lead to the crane losing its balance, structural components fracturing, or even a catastrophic overturn.

2.Inclined Lifting

Inclined lifting involves hoisting an object at an angle rather than vertically. This can cause the load to shift and become unstable, increasing the risk of the load falling or the crane tipping over. The forces acting on the crane during inclined lifting are not distributed evenly, which can damage the crane’s components and lead to mechanical failures. Additionally, inclined lifting can make it difficult for the operator to control the load, further increasing the likelihood of an accident.

3.People on Lifted Objects

Having people stand on objects being lifted by tower cranes is a major hazard. If the load shifts or the crane malfunctions, those on the lifted object are at high risk of serious injury or death. There is no guarantee of stability when people are on a lifted object, and even a minor movement of the crane can cause them to fall. Moreover, this practice is often in violation of safety regulations and can lead to legal consequences for the construction company.

4.Unclear Command Signals

When command signals for tower cranes are unclear or chaotic, it can lead to confusion and miscommunication between the operator and the signaler. This can result in the crane being operated incorrectly, potentially causing the load to be placed in the wrong location or at an incorrect height. In some cases, unclear signals can even lead to the crane colliding with other structures on the construction site. To avoid these risks, it is essential to establish clear communication protocols and ensure that all personnel involved in crane operations understand and follow them.

5.Lifting Buried Components

Lifting buried objects is dangerous because the weight and location of the buried object may be unknown. This can cause the crane to be overloaded or the load to become unstable during lifting. Additionally, buried objects may be attached to other structures or underground utilities, which can cause damage or disruption when they are lifted. For these reasons, it is important to avoid lifting buried components and to conduct proper site investigations before attempting any lifting operations.

6.Strong Winds above Level Six

Strong winds above level six can have a significant impact on tower cranes. The wind can cause the crane to sway and become unstable, increasing the risk of tipping over. High winds can also affect the operator’s ability to control the crane and may cause the load to swing uncontrollably. In some cases, strong winds can even cause the crane to collapse if it is not properly secured. Construction sites should have wind speed monitors and procedures in place to determine when it is safe to operate the crane in windy conditions.

7.Malfunctioning Installation Devices

Malfunctioning safety devices can lead to serious accidents as they are designed to protect the crane and its operators. For example, if the limit switch fails, the crane may overextend or lift a load that is too heavy, potentially causing structural damage or collapse. Similarly, if the braking system malfunctions, the crane may be unable to stop or slow down, increasing the risk of a collision or runaway. Regular maintenance and inspection of safety devices are crucial to ensure their proper functioning and prevent accidents.

8.Poor Visibility

When visibility is poor for operating tower cranes, it can be difficult for the operator to see the load and its surroundings clearly. This can lead to misjudgments in positioning the load and increase the risk of collisions with other objects or structures. Poor visibility can also make it challenging to detect potential hazards on the construction site, such as workers or obstacles. In some cases, operators may have to rely on secondary sources of information, such as radio communication or camera systems, which may not be as reliable as direct visual observation.

9.Loose or Overfilled Bulk Materials

Handling bulk materials that are not properly secured or overfilled can be risky. Loose materials can shift during lifting, causing the load to become unbalanced and increasing the likelihood of it falling. Overfilled containers can spill or rupture, creating a hazard for workers below and potentially damaging the crane. Additionally, improper handling of bulk materials can lead to waste and inefficiency on the construction site.

10.Lifting without Edge Protection

Having proper edge protection when lifting objects is essential to prevent the load from slipping or falling off. Without edge protection, there is a greater risk of the load becoming dislodged and causing an accident. This is particularly important when lifting irregularly shaped or heavy objects. Edge protection can include straps, nets, or other restraining devices that help to secure the load and ensure its safe transportation.

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