OSHA has launched a new emphasis program to focus on crane safety in the Alaska, Idaho, Oregon and Washington. The program will focus on reducing injuries associated with crane operation in construction, general industry and maritime operations.
The northwestern region has been subject to multiple investigations following 13 crane related incidents in the past five years. The most common crane hazards include: tip-overs, becoming stuck by a crane, becoming trapped in between a crane and other equipment, electrocutions and falls from equipment, OSHA says.
"We know that most of these injuries and fatalities are preventable with adequate training and proper attention to safety controls," said Dean Ikeda, regional administrator for OSHA's Region X, which is based in Seattle. "Our goal is to highlight the safety concerns and help employers and employees take steps to reduce the incidents related to crane operations. We want to improve safety for those working with or in the zone of danger where a crane is in use."
OSHA plans to improve compliance and prevent further injuries and deaths for those working on cranes with more inspections at ports and construction sites and by conducting outreach, training, on-site consultation and more.