OSHA focuses on crane safety

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) will launch a programme aimed at reducing serious injuries and fatalities associated with the operation of cranes in Northwest USA.

The programme will be for crane users in construction, general industry and maritime operations for employers under federal OSHA jurisdiction in Idaho, Alaska, Washington and Oregon states.

Dean Ikeda, regional administrator for OSHA's Region X, which is based in Seattle said, "We know that most of these injuries and fatalities are preventable with adequate training and proper attention to safety controls.

“Our goal is to highlight the safety concerns and help employers and employees take steps to reduce the incidents related to crane operations. We want to improve safety for those working with or in the zone of danger where a crane is in use."

According to a statement, the OSHA compliance officers will conduct inspections at ports, construction sites and other locations where cranes are in use. The aim of these inspections is to help improve compliance and prevent injuries and deaths for those working on cranes, a company spokesperson added.

Alongside routine inspections, training and on-site consultation will be provided by OSHA.