What You Should Know About Crane and Hoist Accidents

Every year in the construction industry, crane accidents happen. A crane is a massive piece of machinery that is utilized to hoist equally heavy materials, which is what makes them so dangerous. An accident related to a crane can result in serious injuries or even death. Employers are responsible for ensuring workers using these machines are licensed and properly trained. Operators of cranes are tasked with load capacity, crane assembly, crane maintenance, and inspections required for safe use.

Causes of Crane Accidents

There are many different factors that can lead to a crane accident in the workplace. Some of them include:

• Hoisting a load that is too large or improperly loaded
• Failing to provide proper maintenance
• Running into a crane with a swinging load
• Mechanical failure of the crane for various reasons
• Loads that drop and fall onto the ground or a person
• Accidents involving assembly and disassembly
• Improper or inadequate operating and worker training

Who Is Responsible When a Crane Accident Occurs?

In many cases, an accident with a crane occurs due to a mistake made by a crane operator who is doing their best to be safe and efficient. Operator error is the most common cause of an accident. However, if the operator is at fault for the accident, liability moves to the company that employs that operator as well as those who trained the person who caused the accident.

If the accident happens because of improper warning signs or worker carelessness, the construction site may be held liable for the accident. Whoever owns and controls the crane may also carry some liability. Many construction companies subcontract some aspects of a job so the sub-companies may also carry some responsibility.

Preventing Hoist Accidents

There are numerous ways to prevent or reduce the incidence of accidents with cranes, including:

• Making sure loads are rigged properly
• Ensuring all employees are trained in crane safety
• Having a written maintenance schedule including inspections
• Making sure cranes can handle all loads
• Introducing planning, worker coordination, and communication

When Do You Need a Lawyer?

If you have been injured due to a construction injury and would like to file a claim, your best option is to consult a personal injury attorney at Barovick Law who can explain your rights. Don’t wait too long as you may have a limited time to defend yourself or bring a claim forward. For those who have a claim against them, a civil defense attorney can assist you.