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Writer's pictureCarmen Zajicek

The Basics of Crane Lifting and Rigging

The only way to become an expert at something is to thoroughly understand, learn, and practice its basics. For example, when we talk about crane safety, there’s nothing an operator or crane manager can do if they cannot gauge the rigging and lifting fundamentals.

Crane operations are complex and extensive. Several operational, mechanical, and safety-related considerations require your attention. As a crane project manager, you don’t just have to hire quality crane equipment but also improve its safety and efficiency. Crane Warning Systems Atlanta brings to you a wide range of crane safety products in the US.

We have built a strong reputation in the US and helped thousands of commercial and industrial level businesses improve their crane equipment’s safety. Our product range includes everything from ATB warning systems to wireless crane wind speed indicators.


Why is This Guide a Must-Read for Crane Operators and Owners?


Cranes are one of the most expensive and highly reliable machines that help in safely rigging, lifting, and managing material. But what do you need to know before supervising a rigging project?


A crane with blue sky background

We’ve established that you need crane operators and cranes, but what’s next? How can these resources be used to their maximum potential? Intrigued? Continue reading and learn all about the rigging and lifting basics today!


Fundamental #1: Safe and Security of Rigging Equipment


The first thing to ensure before conducting a lifting project is crane safety. Your equipment needs to be to-notch in terms of safety, control, balance, and strength. While there are several ways to achieve this objective, installing crane safety devices is the fastest and most effective.

Crane safety products like Anti-Two Blocking warning indicators, load indicators, and wind speed indicators are the best for optimizing on-site crane safety.

Crane installed on a building for repairs

Fundamental #2: Hiring Qualified Personnel


You crane operators, spotters, and riggers are an asset. They are the individuals who allow your business to leverage complex machines like cranes for better output and profits. Therefore, it’s extremely important to recruit the best talent.

Take your time, assess candidates, check their training and education background, run experience checks, and conduct an on-site practical assessment if need be. All of these pre-hiring practices are valuable and highly effective for improving the quality of your rigging projects.

Some of the key qualities you must look for in credible candidates are:

  • Their knowledge of the latest crane equipment

  • Communication skills

  • Crane maintenance and technical know-how

  • Experience

  • If you’re looking for an entry-level candidate, you should ensure that they’re trained

  • Reflexes, manual strength, dexterity, and perfect eyesight

Fundamental #3: Rigging Configurations


Rigging has different types of configurations. Each has its own application and objective. Basket hitching, choker hitching, and vertical hitching configurations are common at construction and material handling ports. Once you have determined a rigging method, you need to assess the type, size, and weight of the material.

 A crane lifting a container at a port

In this process, you should read the entire crane manual and learn about:

  • Rated capacity limits

  • Load and weight limits

  • Lifting variations

  • Exceeding switch limits

  • Hoisting configurations

  • Sling configurations

  • Rotation and radius limits

  • Wind speed limits, etc.

Fundamental #4: Proper Communication


Crane operations require all the operators, riggers, spotters, signalers, and managers to be on the same page. There can be no hitches in their communication; otherwise, operators may experience lifting issues and control loss. Crane operations’ safety depends on how well your spotters and signalers help operators during an operation.

Follow the tips mentioned below to improve visibility and safety surveillance around crane equipment:

Train the team about safety best-practices

Invest in crane safety products

Clearly mention the maximum load and weight limits

When working on high-rise buildings, optimize safety for tall tower cranes and their height limits

  • Ensure fuel efficiency and backups to combat sudden mechanical failures

  • Don’t let other employees or pedestrians cross the safety limit during crane operations

  • Disconnect all other procedures when a crane is operational

  • Assign clear tasks to each rigger to minimize overlapping and confusion during a shift

  • Assign stopping task to an experienced rigger to minimize injuries and fatalities in case of a breakdown or lifting problem

Fundamental #5: Preventing Crane Accidents


Most crane accidents occur during load lifting procedures. While all types of cranes pose a high risk for operators and riggers, you can take steps to maintain a safe work environment. Here are some key things that can prevent crane accidents:

  • Properly labeled loads

  • Restricting the worksite and access

  • Building safe walkways around the equipment for on-ground personnel

  • Continuous crane employee training and regular maintenance

  • Timely repairs in case of a part failure or malfunction

How Can Crane Warning Systems Atlanta Help You Increase Crane Safety and Rigging Efficiency?


Crane Warning Systems Atlanta is a well-known crane safety products distributor in the US. We have been offering the most comprehensive range of crane safety instrumentation since 2001.

Cranes with sunset in the background

Our range of products includes but isn’t limited to:

  • Anti-Two Blocking warning devices

  • Load limit indicators

  • Load moment indicators

  • Rated capacity indicators

  • Wind speed warning systems for cranes

  • Displays and sensors, and more!

We are a proud distributor of RaycoWylie crane safety devices. The World-renowned crane safety products manufacturer was formerly known as Wylie and later changed to RaycoWylie. The company created its first-ever crane load indicator back in 1933. And today, you can buy their amazing and tech-advanced products at Crane Warning Systems Atlanta.

Access free troubleshooting guides, product manuals, crane alarm and wiring diagrams on our website or contact us now!

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