OSHA Shipboard Pedestal Crane Safety Checklist

Is a pre-inspection of all cargo handling gear components performed?

Are the crane control levers in good working condition?

Is the work area (swing radius) guarded or secured to prevent personnel from entering?

Are personnel under the load during operations?

Are there any obstructions or workers in the swing radius?

Is the load rigged with the appropriate lifting gear?

Does the weight of the load exceed the SWL?

Is visibility good during operations?

Are safety meetings held?

Do crane operators and all workers involved understand the tasks and their roles?

Are calculations performed and understood by all, especially regarding SWL?

Is there sufficient room for lift and swing?

Are operations isolated from high-traffic areas?

Are weather conditions safe for crane operations?

Is sufficient time allowed to complete the task?

Have any other hazards unique to the operation been identified?

Are power lines in the lift vicinity?

Are personnel under the load during crane operations?

Are crane operators competent to operate the crane by training or experience?

Are crane operators fit to proceed, (not taking medication that may negatively affect reaction time and decision-making abilities, not fatigued, no impaired eyesight or hearing, etc.)?

Are workers wearing hard hats, personal flotation devices, and other required personal protective equipment (PPE)?

Are crane operators and supporting workers trained and authorized on the equipment/task?

Are operators familiar with control functions?

Are controls appropriately positioned before starting operations?

Are workers wearing high-visibility vests?

Is a designated signal person in place and trained on hand signals?

Are hand signals understood by everyone on site?

Have all distractions (cell phones, cameras, other electronics) been eliminated during crane operations?

Before leaving a crane unattended, is the load lowered to the deck (without leaving the load suspended) unless the storage or maximum hoisting position of the suspended device provides an equivalent level of safety?

Is the boom lowered or secured from movement before leaving the crane unattended ?

Is the power supply turned off before leaving the crane unattended?

Is the crane secured from accidental travel before leaving it unattended?

Is safe egress (exit) provided for the operator before leaving the crane unattended?