Well-maintained controllers lead to better operator control
Crane operators have a firmer hand on safety when crane controllers incorporate the design and operational features outlined in this section. Some of these features inhibit the unintentional activation of equipment and stop equipment from operating when pressure on the controls is released. They also keep lifting equipment from automatically restarting after a power disruption.
In all, these required features increase operators’ control over the cranes they are responsible for running. Our technicians can inspect your controllers for proper operation and determine whether replacement parts are needed.
The following excerpt is taken directly from OSHA 1910.179 Overhead and gantry cranes regulations.*
Controllers
1910.179(g)(3)
(i) Cranes not equipped with spring-return controllers or momentary contact pushbuttons shall be provided with a device which will disconnect all motors from the line on failure of power and will not permit any motor to be restarted until the controller handle is brought to the "off" position, or a reset switch or button is operated.
(ii) Lever operated controllers shall be provided with a notch or latch which in the "off" position prevents the handle from being inadvertently moved to the "on" position. An "off" detent or spring return arrangement is acceptable.
(iii) The controller operating handle shall be located within convenient reach of the operator.
(iv) As far as practical, the movement of each controller handle shall be in the same general directions as the resultant movements of the load.
(v) The control for the bridge and trolley travel shall be so located that the operator can readily face the direction of travel.
(vi) For floor-operated cranes, the controller or controllers if rope operated, shall automatically return to the "off" position when released by the operator.
(vii) Pushbuttons in pendant stations shall return to the "off" position when pressure is released by the crane operator.
(viii) Automatic cranes shall be so designed that all motions shall fail-safe if any malfunction of operation occurs.
(ix) Remote-operated cranes shall function so that if the control signal for any crane motion becomes ineffective the crane motion shall stop.
Did you know that replacing pendant controls with radio controls provides free movement for the operator, allows them to choose the safest place to operate the crane and gives them better visibility of the load? Radio controls can also save the operator time by eliminating the need to walk from a pendant to the load to rig countless times in a shift. Contact us to make the switch to radio controls.
*The foregoing OSHA regulations are not intended to be a comprehensive overview of all applicable regulations pertaining to the designated topic. State laws may mandate different safety and maintenance standards. Accordingly, please consult applicable state laws as well as original equipment manufacturer specifications for further guidance. The statements and descriptions contained herein constitute the opinion/recommendation of the seller and are not intended to create any express warranties.
