Safety or warning devices are some of the most essential crane components. They ensure safe, efficient and effective operations. Crane safety equipment also prevents injuries and provides a more conducive working environment.
When hiring a crane, your equipment must have the latest safety features. We’ve listed different crane safety devices and their functions to help you understand whether your crane is safe and compliant.
What Is a Crane Safety Device?
A crane safety device is a mechanism or equipment installed in or on a crane to prevent accidents and ensure safe work. These tools monitor crane performance and warn or alert operators of obstructions and hazards.
13 Crane Safety Devices and Their Uses
Understanding the functions of different crane warning devices is vital for a safe work environment. Here’s a list of safety equipment you should know.
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Overload Limiter
An overload limiter monitors a crane’s load and prevents overload accidents. It uses sensors to detect the load and stops or cuts power to the hoist if the weight exceeds the maximum capacity.
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LED Lights
LED lights illuminate the crane exterior and provide optimal visibility in low-light conditions or at night. These lights are installed in critical crane areas, such as the cab, boom, and hook, to ensure operators have clear views of their surroundings.
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Load Weight Display
The load weight display measures the weight carried by the crane in real-time. It receives signals from the load cell and converts them into readable and graphical weight measurements displayed on the operator’s screen.
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Outriggers
Outriggers and stabiliser systems stabilise or keep cranes secure on the ground during lifts. They extend outward to create a broader base for keeping cranes steady and preventing overturns and tip-overs.
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Alarm System
The alarm system signals or alerts operators of abnormal conditions and safety hazards. It emits sound and light to warn operators and other personnel of hazards like overloading or unsafe conditions.
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Position Limit Switch
The position limit switch limits a cane’s range of motion in various directions to prevent it from exceeding safety zones. It is typically installed on a crane rail to detect unsafe movement. If a crane surpasses the safe predetermined limit, the switch triggers and cuts off the power supply to prevent hazards.
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Cab Safety Features
The operator’s cab or control centre has various safety features to protect them during operations. These include anti-slip flooring and safety harnesses. Modern cabs also have cameras and sensors to provide operators with more visibility.
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Anti-Collision System
The anti-collision system uses sensors and software to detect surrounding structures and equipment. If a crane is too close to surrounding objects, the sensors trigger the control system’s anti-collision system. Operators receive the alert and can adjust the crane’s position to prevent collisions and hazards.
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Anti Two Block System (ATB)
The anti-two-block system prevents the load block from colliding with the boom tip. A collision between these components can send shockwaves through the crane, causing hazards like collapsed loads and damaged hoist lines. It can also cause severe operator and worker injuries.
The anti-two-blocking system uses sensors to detect when the load block and boom tip exceed safe proximity and alerts the control centre with an audio and visual alarm. The operator, in turn, can quickly stop the hosting mechanism and cautiously lower the load to a safe distance to prevent collision with the boom tip or head.
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Photoelectric Sensors
Photoelectric sensors are among the most important safety devices on cranes. They detect objects and people around cranes and trigger devices like anti-collision and anti-two-block systems to prevent collisions and accidents.
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Cross Limiter Switch
The cross-limit switch prevents cranes from exceeding the predetermined safe range during travelling. Usually installed on the hoist, it detects when a crane exceeds the set safety limit and cuts off the power supply to halt movement.
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Wind Indicator
Wind indicators or anemometers measure wind speed and direction. They help crane operators and site managers understand how the wind will impact load stability.
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Emergency Stop Controls
Emergency stop controls halt crane operation when triggered. They are located in the cab and ground control unit and can be used to shut down crane operations immediately to prevent hazards.
Hire a Crane for Your Next Project
Now that you understand the different safety devices, you can confidently hire a crane for your next project. If you need reliable crane rental services, we can help.
St George Cranes is a leading crane hire company providing safe and reputable services. Our cranes have advanced safety mechanisms to ensure safe and efficient operations.
Contact us online today to speak to one of our qualified professionals.
