Safety Standards to Prevent Construction Crane Accidents
In today’s world cranes are a vital component of urban development and are a common site on New York City streets.
However, when cranes are used in densely populated urban settings, such as the 5 boroughs of New York City, the risk of injury and or death to the public and construction workers alike can be especially high. Recent events in New York City have highlighted just how dangerously, and sometimes deadly crane accidents can be.
By law a crane can only be operated by qualified and trained personnel. Crane companies, construction companies, landowners and developers may all be held responsible for injuries that result from improper crane operation or from a faulty crane. There are laws as well as safety guidelines that must be followed by these companies.
Crane companies, construction companies, landowners and developers are responsible for ensuring that crane safety requirements are closely followed, including but not limited to:
Designating a competent person to inspect the crane and all crane controls before the crane is used on the job;
Ensuring that the crane is level, and on a firm and stable surface;
Never exceed the load chart capacity while making lifts;
Fully testing the load capacity, balance and brake system before delivering the load;
Ensuring that loads are not moved over the heads of workers; and
Preventing anyone from walking or working under a suspended load.
These are only a few of the rules, regulations and safety guidelines that ensure the safety of everyone when an overhead crane is in use. It’s important to everyone’s safety that all of the laws and safety guidelines are followed on every job.
If you or a loved one have suffered injury or damage from a crane accident, contact a New York crane accident lawyer at the Law Offices of Michael S. Lamonsoff for a free consultation. We are experts at New York crane regulations, as well as the litigation of crane accident cases. We will be able to give you immediate help.