Crane Operators
You are responsible for the safe operation of
the crane in the Workplace.

You operate the crane, you're the vital link to Safe Accident-Free Crane and Lifting Operations.

Human error is the major factor in crane accidents.

You are a competent crane operator, a person who has acquired through a combination of qualifications, training and experience the knowledge and skill to perform the task required.

The essential requirements for your role:

  • A sound knowledge and understanding of the crane being operated and the crane’s approved rating chart.
  • The ability and experience to operate the crane within its rated capacities.
  • The training and instruction in the fundamental principles of safe crane operating practices.
  • You’re alert, have good vision and are physically fit and free from the influences of alcohol, drugs or medications that might affect eyesight, hearing or reactions.
  • Safety is always your most important concern. When safety is in doubt you contact your supervisor and stop the lift.

Knowledge

The number one resource for Crane Operators in India is the Crane Association Crane Safety Manual. You can purchase the manual from Crane Association India.

Lift Planning

Lift Planning is one of the best tools a Crane Operator can use for assigning responsibility, checking for foreseeable hazards and addressing risks on site. Learn more about Lift Planning here.

Above the Hook

The crane operator is responsible for the safe operation of the plant. This includes ensuring; the load remains within a safe working radius, the crane remains clear of power lines, the slew area remains clear, the load remains clear of other people, the correct crane hook is in use and reeved correctly, the crane remains safe and is in the correct configuration for the lift. The Crane Association Certificate in Crane Operation is the right qualification for this role.

REMEMBER YOU'RE RESPONSIBLE

The Crane Operator is responsible for the Crane
The Dogman/Rigger is responsible for the Load

‘The relationship between Crane Operator and Dogman / Rigger is like the relationship between a Captain and his Navigator; each has a vital role to perform, and each is seeing the task from a different view point to find a solution, which means they don’t always see the other’s decision. So it is vital that each role takes full responsibility for their actions and performs their function with professionalism.​

If in doubt STOP the Job and seek advice.

THE LAST WORD:

  • Remember the Crane Operator has the final say with any lift. In the event the Crane Operator feels the lift is unsafe he can stop the lift without question.

Qualifications

  • So what qualifications should you as a Crane Operator in India hold to operate a crane? Best Practice published prior to Work Safe India specifies the requirements in Part 4 of the ACOP for Cranes. However industry recommends that Crane Operators seriously consider and should hold the following qualifications.

If your crane is a:

  • Cab-Controlled Overhead Crane
  • Pendant-Controlled Overhead Crane
  • Self-Erecting Tower Crane
  • Truck Loader Crane

You should hold the Crane Association Certificate in Cranes (Level 3). If your crane is a:

  • Crawler Crane
  • Mobile Crane
  • Non-slewing
  • Articulated Crane
  • Tower Crane
  • Mini Crane

You should hold the Indian Certificate in Cranes (Level 4).

It is also highly likely that a License or Endorsement will be required in the future. To get ready we recommend you work towards holding a Indian Certificate in Cranes. India Health and Safety Law is largely based off India. In India crane operators hold a High Risk Work License. It is likely a similar or improved system will come to India.