When I started working with my Uncle Bob last summer, I assumed that construction would be an easy, fun way to make a few extra bucks. However, I quickly discovered that construction work was serious business, filled with risks, difficulty, and rewards. After almost being creamed by a few backhoe booms, I learned how to stay out of the way. However, staying safe around heavy machinery isn't always easy to do. My blog talks about how to use machinery properly and what you need to do to stay safe so that you can return home to your family each and every day.
Staying Safe Around Heavy Machinery
Operated Versus Non-Operated Crane Rentals
Ashley Hayes
Fixed cranes and mobile cranes use a series of wire ropes, chains, and a hoist to lift and lower heavy materials. If an ongoing project will temporarily require the use of a crane, explore operated and non-operated crane rental options.
Rental Requirements
A company that rents out heavy construction equipment will feature a series of mobile cranes. Fixed cranes are used on permanent sites that will require that materials are moved along the same path each day. Mobile crane models are smaller than fixed models and can be used to traverse the property and lift and lower varying weight loads and material sizes. Rental requirements may include insurance, a deposit, and the transport of rentals to and from a job site.
Operated Crane Rentals
A crane rigger is the person who oversees a crane's operation. This person will be responsible for setting up a crane, moving it to the area where it will be used, and lifting and lowering each load. Some companies offer operated rentals. Each piece of equipment that is secured through this type of company will include a crane rigging operator's assistance.
If you and your employees have never used a crane before, choosing an operated crane rental will eliminate needing to hire an outside rigger. A daily rental rate will include the use of the equipment and the fee for the operator's services. You may be responsible for clearing the property where a crane operator will be using the rental and for preparing the materials that will be moved via a crane.
Non-Operated Crane Rentals
A non-operated crane rental will require that a rigger is supplied by you. Operating a crane is a highly skilled process. A rental business owner may mandate that only trained operators are allowed to use a mobile rental. If you have a rigger who is employed by you, they can be assigned to operate the machinery that you rent. Otherwise, you should plan on hiring an outside source who has the skills necessary to use a mobile crane.
During the time that a mobile crane is in your possession, you will be responsible for its upkeep. This includes placing a crane rental in a secure area each night. If you do not have a large, covered structure that can be used for storage purposes, you may need to rent a mobile crane and return the equipment at the end of each day.
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