Crane Accidents: A Study of Causes and Trends to Create a Safer Work Environment, 1983-2013 presents an analysis of crane accidents and industry-specific analyses. It examines commercial construction, residential construction, agriculture, logging/arborist, marine, mining, highway/road and bridge, industrial/manufacturing, land-based oilfield and offshore oilfield industries.
“Every lift and accident is unique, and our goal was to evaluate a broad cross-section of accidents throughout the United States in order to provide constructive information to the crane industry on factors causative of crane accidents,” said Jim Wiethorn, P.E., from Haag and author of the study.
Haag Engineering Co. has been actively involved in the crane and rigging industry with the development and growth of the Haag Crane Group, based in Sugar Land, Texas, USA. Initially implemented by Wiethorn in 1987, the group has expanded to address all aspects of the crane and rigging industry. They have completed review of more than 750 crane- and rigging-related accidents since 1987.
This study evolved out of Wiethorn’s life-long association with and love of cranes. He grew up in the construction industry and studied crane design while attending engineering school.
“This study is designed to provide valuable insight and ultimately increased safety for everyone involved with crane lifts by analyzing the causes of accidents,” he said.
It provides valuable data for owners, users, manufacturers, standards committees; analysis of crane accident types and trends, plus industry specific analyses; identifies problematic areas to reduce future risks and prevent catastrophic events; and evaluates the current state of crane lift training and effects in the industry (ASME B30 standards). Download the study at http://haageducation.com/books-tools/crane-accidents-causes-trends/66/.
Wiethorn will present findings from the study at the World Crane & Transport Summit November 12 & 13 at the Biltmore Hotel, Miami, Florida, USA.
Author: D. Ann Shiffler
Source: KHL Group
