How to prevent electric shock during crane lifting operations
Category: Industry News
Release time:2020-02-13
With the advancement of industry, the crane sector has rapidly expanded, finding widespread application in indoor settings, open-air environments, factories, power plants, warehouses, ports, and countless other industries. Precisely because of this broad reach, crane operation safety becomes especially critical—particularly when it comes to preventing electric shocks. Although cranes are equipped with built-in safety mechanisms designed to protect against electrical hazards, improper handling by crane operators can still pose significant risks. So, what precautions should be taken to avoid electric shocks?
1. Safety Distance: When operating, the crane— including the boom, lifting attachments, wire ropes, and lifted loads—must maintain a minimum distance from power lines as specified in relevant construction electrical codes. Specifically: for voltages below 1 kV, the minimum clearance is 1.5 meters; for voltages between 1 kV and 35 kV, it’s 3 meters; and for voltages exceeding 60 kV, the minimum distance is calculated using the formula [0.01 × (V - 50) + 3] meters.
2. What to do in case of electric shock involving a running crane: During lifting operations, if a power line happens to snap or the crane boom accidentally comes into contact with a high-voltage wire, the crane itself will remain at equipotential—meaning there’s no voltage difference across the vehicle. As a result, current won’t flow through the operator’s body, preventing injury. First and foremost, the operator should calmly overcome any fear. Meanwhile, all personnel on-site must immediately cordon off the hazardous area and clearly warn anyone outside the vehicle not to touch the crane’s structure under any circumstances. Next, if the operator can safely move the crane boom away from the energized source—such as by driving the crane out of the danger zone—they’ll effectively eliminate the risk. However, if disconnecting the power proves impossible and the operator cannot step away from the electrical hazard, they should avoid jumping down from the cab impulsively. Instead, the operator should calmly and methodically shut off all control levers, then carefully leap from the vehicle with both feet together (ensuring that their body no longer touches the vehicle afterward). After landing, the operator must continue moving forward with feet still tightly together or hop on one foot to quickly exit the danger zone—never taking wide steps, as this could create a path for electricity to flow through the body. By maintaining constant equipotential throughout this process, the risk of electric shock is completely avoided. Typically, operators should jump at least 20 meters away from the crane to ensure safety.
Keywords: How to prevent electric shock during crane lifting operations
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