Info Graphic: Cameras on Cranes Increases Communication between Operator and Rigger or Banksman

Although many aspects of the crane and rigging industry have improved a great deal over the last few decades, there are still major problems which need to be addressed. One of these issues is the communication between riggers and crane operators. The rigger, or signal person, is responsible for getting the correct messages to the crane operator to let him know that all is clear below. When a crane operator is performing a blind lift, this is often the only way that he has of knowing that the load is properly secured and that there are no obstructions in the way or issues with the lift. Until lately, this was mostly done with hand signals or voice signals. Unfortunately, inconsistent signals and miscommunication has lead to many tragic accidents. HoistCam is working to fix this issue with their cameras on cranes.

Tragedy Strikes When Communication is Flawed

During the Summer of 2009, a commercial roofer who was just 48 years old was killed when a load of roofing material fell from a tower crane, according to a government report. Although the rigger had secured the pallet to the crane properly, the load was not secured to the pallet. If the crane operator could have laid eyes on the load himself, it is very possible that he could have seen the mistake and caught it, thus saving the roofer’s life. The crane operator could have communicated back to the rigger to check and make sure that the load was secured to the pallet. Unfortunately, at that time, there was no way for the crane operator to see the blind lift. Sadly, this is just one of many such stories. In another incident report from a government site, a rigger was killed when he walked into an area where the crane operator could not see him. In both of these accidents, blind lifts were extremely dangerous and communication between the rigger and the crane operator was flawed.

Improved Communication to Prevent Tragedies

Thanks to HoistCam, this is no longer the case. With cameras on cranes, the crane operator can look into a monitor that sits in the cab of the crane with him and see the load. These cameras allow the crane operator to have eyes on any part of the job site, thus letting him see the load for himself before he makes the lift. He can communicate back to the rigger if anything looks like it needs to be rechecked, and even watch as the rigger checks the load. If such a device had been available back in 2009, it is very possible that the life of the roofer could have been saved.

With cameras on cranes, the crane operator is finally given the ability to see the load, from the pick up point to the drop off area. He can tell if any obstacles are in the path of the load, and whether or not everyone is ut of that path. He can also watch as the rigger secures the load, to make sure that nothing is missed. Cameras on cranes make it easier for the crane operator to see hand signals from the rigger below, and adds a visual confirmation to those signals. Radio communication is also an added security. Finally, the crane operator can view the load, the hook, the rigging, and the entire job site to help ensure that the entire lift will be a safe one, all thanks to HoistCam’s cameras on cranes.