Tower Cranes-Risk Assessment

Purpose:
To ensure the safety of personnel and equipment during the operation, erection, jumping, repair, maintenance, and dismantling of tower cranes by identifying and mitigating potential hazards.

Key Elements:

1. Potential Hazards Considered:
   • Falls from height
   • Falling materials
   • Lifting operations
   • Electricity hazards
   • Manual handling
   • COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health)
   • Adverse weather
   • Slips/trips
2. Persons at Risk:
   • Employees
   • Subcontractors
   • Visitors
3. Mandatory Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) Requirements:
   • Safety induction
   • Tool box talks
   • Proper PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)
   • Work permit
   • Proper tools and equipment
   • Proper supervision
   • Barricades and warning signs
4. PPE Requirements:
   • Safety helmets
   • Safety boots
   • Gloves
   • Overalls
   • Full body safety harness
5. Risk Levels and Control Measures:
   • Untrained Erectors/Technicians: Use competent erectors and technicians.
   • Discarded/Deformed Parts: Use proper crane parts and accessories, and inspect them thoroughly.
   • Failure of Lifting Equipment: Use certified equipment and inspect it before use; do not exceed SWL.
   • Fall of Person: Use safety harnesses and ensure proper anchoring points and access.
   • Fall of Materials/Tools: Secure tools and accessories, and barricade the area below.
   • Collapse of Mast Section/Counter Weight: Ensure proper placement and securing of mast sections and counterweights.
   • Collapse of Crane: Follow manufacturer instructions for base and ballast, conduct regular inspections, and avoid adverse weather.
   • Electricity: Perform electrical jobs as per standards, use well-insulated joints, and maintain safe distances from power lines.
   • Adverse Weather: Check forecasts and avoid operations during adverse conditions.
   • Collision with Structures/Other Cranes: Maintain safe distances and use communication systems to coordinate with other cranes.
   • Inadequate Mobile Crane: Use appropriate mobile cranes and follow proper setup procedures.

Ongoing Process:
Risk assessment is a continuous process that must be communicated to workers before starting the job. It is regularly reviewed to adapt to new activities and potential risks, ensuring a safe working environment.