The Deadly Setup: What a Dallas Crane Tragedy Teaches Us About Construction Safety

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 Crane mishap kills one on Dallas School project



My Geotechnical firm investigated the crane collapse.
They reviewed the soil conditions under the crane and found that the soil had sufficient strength and compaction.

However, for your projects, perform a bearing capacity check by a geotechnical engineer for any crane or concrete pump truck outrigger that will be used on the project.


Shifting Center of Gravity

The geotechnical investigation determined that the crane was overloaded. 

The center of gravity is vital in operating a crane. When operating a crane, a crane operator should always ensure that the center of gravity is maintained within the crane’s body to avoid crane overturn.


Meet with your crane operator and review a lifting plan before work commences.

Consider all the aspects of the lift;

1)     Weight

2)    Center of gravity

3)    Lifting points on the load

4)    The path that the load will travel during the lift.

5)    Review the capabilities of the crane, review the load tables, or the instrument of loading.

6)    Consider the wind

7)    Communication during the whole process of the lift. 

   8)     Are the outrigger pads a sufficient size?  






Shettig Construction Management provides Professional Construction Management services from the inception of your project through completion. www.shettig.com

mshettig@gmail.com


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