Safety Measures for Hoisting and Lifting Operations

I. Principles for Developing Safety Measures in Crane Operations

To ensure that the — Viaduct Mainline Bridge Project is executed strictly in accordance with the approved construction organization design, the hoisting and lifting process is effectively controlled, and all operations conform to relevant operational regulations, this document outlines safety measures with a focus on maintaining a robust safety framework throughout the lifting operations.

II. Hoisting and Lifting Operation Sites and Tasks

1. Unloading steel reinforcement bars and machinery upon arrival at the site.
2. Lifting reinforcement cages for bored piles at each pier location.
3. Installing and dismantling formwork for pier columns and box girders at each pier.
4. Hoisting components for preloading on full-scale scaffolding.
5. Hoisting various small tools and tensioning equipment for beam construction.

III. Organization for Safety in Hoisting and Lifting Operations

1. Formation of a Hoisting Safety Management Team:
   • The team is responsible for implementing safety measures, reviewing construction plans, and ensuring safety on-site. Any issues potentially affecting safety during operations must be addressed promptly.
2. Key Personnel:
   • The safety management team includes production leaders, safety officers, dedicated signalers, and specialized safety supervisors. Before commencing operations, the safety supervisor will verify the implementation of safety measures, assess crane performance, environmental conditions, and personnel readiness to ensure operational safety.

IV. Management Measures for Hoisting and Lifting Operations

1. Systematic Management:
   • On-Site Leadership: During every hoisting operation, either the team leader or deputy team leader of the safety management group must oversee the process.
   • Pre-Job Training: Conduct safety education sessions for all personnel involved in lifting operations to enhance awareness and instill a strong focus on safety.
   • Daily Briefings: Site supervisors must conduct daily briefings on safety precautions and perform safety inspections before operations begin.
   • Pre-Operation Meetings: Before major hoisting tasks such as lifting reinforcement cages or large components, the safety management group must convene a meeting with the operational crew to define tasks, methods, safety precautions, and emergency response plans.
2. Equipment Management:
   • Equipment Selection:
     • Choose lifting equipment that suits the dimensions, weight, and installation requirements of components.
     • Consider the quantity of lifting tasks, workspace constraints, and construction progress needs.
     • Ensure site conditions allow for safe crane positioning.
     • Verify the crane’s technical specifications, including load capacity, operational radius, and lifting height.
   • Equipment Inspection:
     • Prior to arrival, check the annual inspection status of lifting equipment and ensure it is in optimal condition.
     • Inspect the functionality of safety devices such as:
       • Buffers: To mitigate impact when the crane reaches its endpoint.
       • Limiters: Includes travel limiters, hook height limiters, boom rotation angle limiters, load limiters, and moment limiters.
       • Braking Systems: Ensure these can support, stop, or lower loads effectively.
       • Amplitude Indicators: Display boom position and permissible load weight for various radii.
3. Safety Training and Certification:
   • Operators, including crane drivers and riggers, must possess valid occupational certificates and complete annual evaluations.
   • Regular training sessions on hoisting techniques and operational safety must be provided for site commanders, operators, and auxiliary staff.
4. Supervision and Inspection:
   • Routine Checks:
     • Ensure adherence to safety protocols outlined in the construction safety measures.
     • Conduct daily checks of safety compliance during sub-section and sub-item engineering phases.
     • Safety engineers and mechanical supervisors should monitor crane operations, safety devices, and personnel compliance closely.
     • Operators must self-check adherence to operational rules and proper use of protective equipment.
   • Specialized Inspections:
     • Safety and technical departments must perform periodic checks (e.g., bi-weekly, monthly) on cranes and personnel. Identify issues, implement safety measures, and rectify deficiencies promptly. Stop work if necessary.

V. Comprehensive Safety Measures for Hoisting Operations

1. General Safety Provisions:
   • Define critical technical points and safety measures before operations.
   • Ensure crane operators have valid licenses and special operation permits. Personnel must pass medical checks and undergo safety education and technical briefings.
   • Inspect all lifting equipment, slings, shackles, clamps, anchors, and other tools before use. Damaged or defective equipment must be repaired or replaced immediately. Conduct trial runs of cranes to confirm smooth operation before commencing.
2. Fall Prevention Measures:
   • Personnel must wear helmets, safety belts, non-slip shoes, and tool pouches.
   • Establish clearly marked hoisting zones with designated guards. Unauthorized personnel are prohibited from entering.
   • Workers must not stand on or place tools on transported or hoisted components.
   • Provide temporary safety barriers or equivalent measures at working heights.
   • Secure ladders and temporary work platforms firmly. Ensure proper incline for ladders (60-70 degrees) and tie down scaffolding planks to prevent displacement.
3. Preventing Falling Objects:
   • Secure materials during transport using ropes or lifting cages. Avoid piling loose materials on components during hoisting.
   • Ensure stable and balanced hoisting with proper load distribution. Avoid sudden movements or prolonged suspension of heavy loads.
   • Perform lifting in stable weather conditions. During adverse weather, adopt necessary precautions or suspend operations.
4. Preventing Crane Tipping:
   • Operate cranes on level and stable ground. Avoid positioning on slopes or uneven surfaces.
   • Maintain vertical alignment of slings during lifts. Do not exceed the crane’s load capacity or operational radius.
   • Avoid simultaneous actions (e.g., lifting and swinging) when the crane is near full load capacity.
   • Maintain a safe distance of at least 5 meters between cranes when using multiple units.
   • During dual-crane operations, allocate loads reasonably, ensuring no crane exceeds 80% of its safe load capacity.
5. Structural Stability During Lifting:
   • Follow prescribed lifting sequences and processes. Avoid altering them without proper calculations and technical measures.
   • Securely fix components before disconnecting lifting tools. If adjustments are necessary, reattach lifting devices.
   • Use stabilizing ropes or braces for tall or narrow components until they form a stable structural unit.

By adhering to these comprehensive safety measures, the risk of accidents can be minimized, ensuring a secure and efficient lifting operation. Detailed instructions for each specific task and periodic revisions of safety measures will further enhance the effectiveness of the safety management system.