The following hazards must be considered when operating a gantry crane:

• Overhead power lines
• Load instability
• Load weight and capacity limitations
• Pinch points and crush zones
• Collisions with other equipment or objects
• Slip, trip, and fall hazards
• Weather conditions

Risk Assessment:

A risk assessment must be conducted prior to the use of a gantry crane. The assessment should identify the potential hazards and their associated risks, and determine appropriate control measures to mitigate these risks.

Controls Measures:

The following control measures must be implemented during the operation of a gantry crane:

1. Pre-Operation Inspection:

Before the crane is used, it must be inspected to ensure that it is in good working order. The inspection should include the following:

• Checking the condition of the wire ropes, sheaves, and drums
• Checking the brakes and safety devices
• Checking the hydraulic and pneumatic systems
• Ensuring the correct operation of the limit switches and load indicators
• Checking the condition of the hook and safety latch
• Checking the condition of the slings and lifting attachments

2. Planning the Lift:

The lift must be planned to ensure that the crane’s weight capacity is not exceeded, and that the load is stable and secure. The following must be considered:

• The weight of the load
• The location of the load and the lifting points
• The angle of the slings and lifting attachments
• The distance between the load and any obstacles or hazards

3. Lifting the Load:

The following procedures must be followed when lifting the load:

• The operator must be in full control of the crane at all times
• The riggers must ensure that the load is stable and secure
• The load must be lifted slowly and smoothly, with no sudden movements
• The operator must stop the lift if any problems occur, such as equipment malfunction or instability of the load

4. Lowering the Load:

The following procedures must be followed when lowering the load:

• The operator must be in full control of the crane at all times
• The riggers must guide the load to ensure that it does not swing or strike any obstacles
• The load must be lowered slowly and smoothly, with no sudden movements
• The operator must stop the lowering process if any problems occur, such as equipment malfunction or instability of the load

5. Post-Operation Inspection:

After the crane is used, it must be inspected to ensure that it is still in good working order. The inspection should include the following:

• Checking for any damage to the crane or its components
• Checking for any damage to the load or lifting attachments
• Checking that all tools and equipment have been removed from the crane

Training and Competency:

All personnel involved in the operation of a gantry crane must be properly trained and competent to carry out their duties. This includes the crane operator, riggers, and other support personnel.

Emergency Procedures:

Emergency procedures must be in place in the event of an incident or accident involving a gantry crane. Personnel must be trained in these procedures and they must be readily accessible at all times.