Even without gantry cranes, warehouses can be hazardous workplaces. For this reason, you must understand common warehouse gantry crane dangers to be able to prevent injuries, damage to property, and in extreme cases, death. Gantry cranes play an integral part in helping move heavy objects in a warehouse. Regardless of the type of gantry crane you are using, regularly assessing their performance can go a long way in improving the warehouse working environment to keep your workers safe and improve productivity levels.
By ensuring the safe operation of gantry cranes in your warehouse, not only do you reduce the risk or injury, but you also minimize work disruptions and equipment downtime. Here are four essential guidelines to help you ensure the safe use of warehouse gantry cranes:
1. Ensure Gantry Crane Operators Have The Right Training
Perhaps the most effective way to ensure the safe operation of all equipment in a warehouse, including the gantry crane, is to make sure that all staff members are trained to do what they do and are up to date with safe practices. Up-to-date training will ensure that there is greater adherence to safety procedures since your staff will be aware of the consequences of cutting corners. Through training and refresher courses, you can make sure that individuals operating gantry cranes know what they are doing and can avoid any hazardous working practices while ensuring maximum production.
2. Implement Safe Lifting Techniques
Gantry cranes are used in warehouses to facilitate the transport of heavy products. However, they pose a danger to both workers and property, including being struck by falling objects. To remain safe while using gantry cranes in your warehouse, you must implement safe lifting techniques. For instance, when lifting goods using a gantry crane, make sure you confirm that the route is clear of obstacles. Also, check to ensure that there is enough room for the crane to move and for the load.
3. Promote Awareness
Having a sense of open communication is a warehouse that can help ensure the safe operation of gantry cranes and all machinery. Communication can be achieved by promoting awareness. For example, when using a gantry crane to move items, the operator can alert the others with a simple “coming through” alert to notify other workers of their whereabouts. Communication will allow everyone in the warehouse to know what’s around them and to tell others where they are to avoid workplace accidents.
4. Schedule Regular Gantry Crane Maintenance And Repair
Understandably, people become complacent over time when dealing with durable machines such as gantry cranes. So, make sure that you regularly inspect your gantry crane for any potential issues. Regular inspection and servicing give you the time you need to see what might need correcting. Gantry crane maintenance appointments are the best time to see if your gantry crane needs are changing. Because if they are, then you must update your safety procedures for your new gantry crane.
Never compromise on safety when operating gantry cranes in warehouses.