Lifting without knowing the rules? That’s how you lift your way into trouble
Mobile cranes are awesome — they can move mountains (or at least HVAC units).
But with great lifting power comes great responsibility
Whether you’re a site manager, contractor, or just crane-curious, here’s your crash course in the safety regs that matter most before that boom goes up.
Rule #1: The Operator Must Be Certified
This isn’t a video game. You can’t just hop in and “figure it out.”
OSHA requires crane operators to be trained, certified, and evaluated
Certifications must match crane type (mobile, tower, crawler, etc.)
Recertification is required every 5 years (at minimum)
No license = no lifting. Period.
Rule #2: Daily Inspections Are Non-Negotiable
Before every shift, cranes must be inspected. Not maybe. Not “later.” Not “if it looks fine.”
Hydraulic leaks? Bad.
Frayed cables? Nope.
Misaligned outriggers? Shut it down.
Document the inspection — your safety record and your insurance both depend on it.
Rule #3: Know Your Load Limits
Every crane has a load chart. It’s not a suggestion — it’s law (and physics).
Never exceed rated capacity
Factor in the boom angle & radius
Don’t forget about the rigging gear weight!
Overloading = toppling = lawsuits + a very bad day
Rule #4: Secure Your Work Zone
No one — we repeat, no one — should be under or near the lift path.
Set up barriers around the lift zone
Use spotters to maintain safe clearance
Keep all ground crew in visible, high-vis gear
“I didn’t see them there” is not a valid excuse.
Rule #5: Stay Away from Power Lines
This one’s so important, we’re putting it in all caps:
ALWAYS STAY AT LEAST 10 FEET FROM LIVE POWER LINES.
If you can’t move the lines — de-energize them
Use a signal person when working near overhead wires
Consider non-conductive rigging equipment
Crane + power = very bad combination.
Rule #6: Respect the Weather
Wind is not your friend when there’s a 2-ton steel beam in the air.
No lifting if winds exceed 20–25 mph
Rain = slippery surfaces = outriggers may shift
Extreme cold? Check your hydraulic systems
Rule #7: Communication Is Everything
No screaming from the ground. No guessing what that hand wave meant.
Use OSHA-compliant hand signals
Assign ONE designated signal person
Use radios for long-distance or noisy sites
Conduct a pre-lift safety meeting
No signal = no lift.
Bonus Rule: Follow Local Permit & Zoning Laws
Some cities require permits for crane setup, road closures, or high-lift operations.
Check with local authorities before lifting
Plan for traffic redirection if needed
Keep documentation on-site
Surprise inspections aren’t fun — be prepared.
The "Trident Crane Service" Promise: We Handle This For You
When you rent a crane from us, you're not left guessing. We provide:
Certified operators
Daily inspection logs
Proper rigging gear
Safety planning & coordination
Compliance with OSHA, ANSI, and local regs
We lift — safely, smartly, and by the book
Final Word: Safe Lifting = Smart Lifting
Cranes can do amazing things — but only when used with care and respect.
Whether you’re managing a full-scale build or a single rooftop install, knowing the rules keeps your site moving and your people safe.
Not sure where to start?
Call Us +1 773 424 2944
Visit our website: www.tridentcrane.com
