Safety is the backbone of any successful crane and rigging job. In this post, Rossco Crane and Rigging shares five essential safety practices that ensure smooth and accident-free lifts, including proper load calculations, site inspections, and certified operator training.
By Rossco Crane and Rigging
When it comes to crane and rigging operations, safety isn’t optional—it’s everything. Heavy lifting equipment moves massive loads that can pose serious risks if not handled properly. At Rossco Crane and Rigging, we believe that the foundation of any successful job is a commitment to safety at every stage of the process.
In this blog, we’ll cover five critical safety practices we follow to ensure the protection of our crew, clients, and worksite.
1. Comprehensive Pre-Lift Planning
Before a single rig is secured or a crane is moved, we conduct a thorough pre-lift plan. This includes evaluating the load, understanding the terrain, identifying any overhead obstructions, and determining the best type of crane for the job. We also establish load weight calculations, lifting points, and communication signals.
A well-documented lift plan minimizes guesswork on-site and ensures that every member of the crew understands their role in the operation.
2. Certified and Trained Operators
Crane operation requires specialized knowledge and precision. All Rossco operators and riggers are certified professionals with extensive field experience. We stay updated with the latest OSHA guidelines and NCCCO certifications to ensure every lift is in compliance with federal safety standards.
Ongoing training ensures our team is not only qualified—but confident—in handling every aspect of rigging and lifting.
3. Daily Equipment Inspections
Every piece of equipment undergoes a detailed inspection before and after each use. This includes checking cables, slings, hooks, load indicators, hydraulic systems, and more.
Identifying wear and tear early helps us avoid equipment failure and ensures our cranes are always in top working condition. Preventative maintenance is not a formality—it’s a safety measure that keeps everyone protected.
4. Clear Communication and Signal Protocols
On a loud, busy jobsite, clear communication is critical. Our team uses standardized hand signals and radio communication protocols to maintain coordination during lifts.
One miscommunication can cause a critical error—so we make sure every crew member is trained in universal crane signals and follows a strict chain of command when executing a lift.
5. Securing the Load Properly
Even a perfectly chosen crane can fail a job if the rigging isn’t right. Our team carefully selects the right slings, shackles, and spreader bars based on load weight, shape, and center of gravity. Loads are always balanced, and taglines are used to prevent uncontrolled swinging.
Every lift is treated like a high-risk operation, no matter how “routine” it may seem.
Why Safety Matters to Rossco
We’ve built our reputation on trust, reliability, and performance—but none of that is possible without safety. Every successful lift begins with a safety-first mindset, and we bring that commitment to every project we take on.
Whether it’s a complex industrial hoist or a straightforward equipment relocation, Rossco Crane and Rigging is here to get the job done—safely and efficiently.