Proforma Safety Blog

New OSHA Rule for Cranes and Derricks Issued

Posted by proforma on August 4, 2010  |  No Comments

The final rule for cranes and derricks in construction that’s taken years to develop will go into effect November 8, 2010. The new rule will cover the leading causes of death attributed to electrocution, struck-by hazards, boom collapse and overturning.

One of the most significant changes is that operators will now be required to be qualified and certified (1926.1427). Other personnel, including riggers and signal persons, will also have to be qualified.

Employers will be required to certify their crane operators within the next four years.

Sea Swells Cause Swinging Crane Ball Incidents

Posted by proforma on February 8, 2010  |  No Comments

Two incidents reported in January involved sea swell action on offshore platforms. In one instance, as the crane operator lowered a crane block to the deck, a large swell hit the vessel. The swinging block collided with an empty product reel, an AC unit and the walkway of another crane. 

The second incident also involved a swinging crane ball; this time colliding with the frame of the personnel lifting device.

Details available on the National Offshore Petroleum Safety Authority (NOPSA) web site.

Install Grating Over Crane Cab Window

Posted by proforma on April 17, 2009  |  No Comments

The American Petroleum Institute (API) recommends that crane cabs with a window overhead have a grating or other protection installed over the window to prevent debris from falling on the operator. If an object were to be dropped over the crane cab, safety glass would not provide sufficient protection for the operator.

The National Offshore Petroleum Safety Authority (NOPSA) has issued this safety alert citing the API specification 2C section 12.2.

Construction Worker at Refinery Killed by Falling Crane Ball

Posted by proforma on April 1, 2009  |  No Comments

On March 8, 2009, a contract employee died of head injuries sustained the previous day after being struck by a falling crane ball at a Port Arthur refinery construction site.

The contractor, McKinney Drilling, was installing drill shaft foundations, for which a 50-ton crane was being used. At some point, the crane ball fell, striking the employee on the head and left side of his body.

Pending investigation by OSHA and the company, workers should be reminded to remain aware at all times where they are in relation to equipment working around them. They should never become so comfortable with their surroundings or the work in progress that they drop their guard and expose themselves to danger.