While the risk of accident or injury can be minimised by following general health and safety rules, this risk can never be completely eliminated when working with cranes or other materials handling equipment. Safety equipment can help to ensure that the risk is kept to a minimum or that serious injuries can be avoided in the event of an accident. Everyone should be familiar with them by now, but repeating them and stressing their importance should not be in vain.
The subject of this post is closely related to our previous post on the steps to be followed and the the safety rules to be respected he said.
Continuous monitoring is important
Before going through the most important and well-known protective equipment, it is important to note that the tools and structures used in lifting operations, protective equipment and aids must comply with the requirements of the relevant European, national or international standards and the specifications issued by the manufacturer.
As with the use of cranes and other lifting equipment, it is essential to preliminary examination of an operator, as well as the regular maintenance, it is also necessary to ensure that personal protective equipment is free from injury and capable of performing its safety function to the full before using it.
If it is damaged, or if it is damaged during use, it must be replaced with a flawless one.
The most common protective equipment
During dredging or other cargo handling the following protective equipment is recommended:
- headgear
Perhaps the most widely used personal protective equipment is the safety helmet, which protects the head against falling or bouncing materials. The precise fit is adjustable with a ratchet. It is advisable to choose a well-ventilated, lightweight piece.
- eye protection
Eye protection is also recommended when using cranes and hoists, and is most easily achieved with lightweight safety goggles. When working outdoors, it is advisable to wear a tinted lens or photochromatics, i.e. use glasses that darken in the light.
- gloves
Protection against cuts, punctures, bumps and bruises, most people would say - quite rightly - when asked about the importance of safety gloves. And at Eco Cranes, we would add: wind and water protection, heat retention, precise, slip-proof grip and feel.
- appropriate protective clothing
Clothing that is well-ventilated, doesn't get in the way of anything, yet is durable and comfortable is essential for safe and comfortable working conditions. From the wide range on offer, we recommend brightly coloured garments, possibly with reflective inserts.
- warning inscriptions, signs, protective covers
The display of clearly visible warning signs is compulsory both on machinery and within its range. Transfer or maintenance of new equipment during our staff they are always placed in accordance with the rules in force.
Of course, the list can be extended, but we recommend that you always check that the product you are considering meets the relevant standards.
Sales staff in specialised shops or customer services to help you choose the most suitable product.
