Cranes and hoists operate on the principle of balance, and any wrong move can result in a catastrophic accident. Side pulling is a common mistake made by crane operators that can lead to dangerous consequences.
Side pulling a crane means pulling a load at an angle rather than straight up and down. It might seem like an innocent mistake, but it can put significant stress on the crane's components and cause it to tip over. Side pulling also puts the load being lifted at risk of falling or swinging uncontrollably, causing serious damage or harm to people in the surrounding areas.
The dangers of side pulling are not just limited to the crane and the load. It can also cause damage to the structure on which the crane is placed, resulting in costly repairs and/or delayed project timelines. It can also lead to additional expenses for replacing damaged components of the crane.
To avoid the dangers of side pulling, it is essential to follow the manufacturer's recommended operating procedures and ensure that the crane is operated by a skilled and trained operator. Crane operators must always check the load.