Our crane operators here at Thornton’s Crane Service play a crucial role on all of our job sites, working closely with project or site managers, but they carry the significant responsibility of operating and maintaining their machine safely.
Here are some of the key tasks a crane operator typically handles:
Safety
Safety is the most critical aspect of a crane operator’s job. Protecting themselves, coworkers, pedestrians, and surrounding property is paramount. Operators should attend all required training, stay informed about industry and machine updates, and understand how to operate in various weather conditions, such as rain or low visibility. Maintaining a clear field of view and being briefed on job-specific risks by the site manager before starting a new task is essential. Our professional crane operators hold NCCCO National Commission for Crain Operators certifications and are also trained through the Crane Institute of America.
Maintenance
While crane operators usually don’t handle major repairs or part replacements, they must understand the workings of their machine to identify when something isn’t right. Basic maintenance, such as inspecting parts and staying updated on service alerts or routine appointments, is essential. Operators may also need to determine if specialized equipment, like an extended mast, is necessary for specific tasks.
Operation
Operating the crane involves controlling its speed, movement, direction, and position. Operators must be adept at lifting and lowering loads on different types of terrain. This also includes following all signals and instructions from coworkers, clients, employers, or site managers to ensure the job is done correctly and safely.
Communication
Effective crane operation relies heavily on teamwork and communication. Operators must coordinate with other equipment operators, management, and contractors to create and follow a plan of action, making adjustments as needed to ensure smooth operations.
These responsibilities are not exhaustive, as each worksite, and project may have specific objectives, safety guidelines, or requirements that our crane operator’s here at Thornton’s Crane Service must adhere to.
