Why Fall Protection Matters in Crane Operations

Working around overhead cranes often means working at heights—on runways, platforms, or elevated areas where a misstep can lead to a serious fall. According to OHS statistics, falls are one of the leading causes of workplace injuries and fatalities across Canada. For crane owners and operators, having a robust fall protection plan isn’t optional—it’s a legal and moral responsibility.

Understanding OHS Requirements

Under Alberta’s Occupational Health and Safety Code (Part 9: Fall Protection), employers are required to protect workers who are:

• At a height of 3 metres (10 feet) or more.

• Working in areas where a fall could cause serious injury, even if less than 3 metres.

• Exposed to hazards like open holes, unguarded edges, or climbing structures.

Key requirements include:

1. Hazard Assessment: Identify when and where fall hazards exist.

2. Fall Protection Plan: Written documentation outlining how risks will be controlled.

3. Hierarchy of Controls: Start with guardrails and barriers; if that’s not possible, use travel restraint or fall arrest systems.

4. Training & Competency: Workers must be trained and competent in using fall protection equipment.

5. Equipment Inspections: Harnesses, lanyards, and lifelines must be inspected before use and removed from service if damaged.

Practical Tips for Crane Worksites

1. Develop a Site-Specific Fall Protection Plan
   Don’t rely on generic policies. Each crane site has unique hazards. Document the risks, rescue procedures, and responsibilities clearly.

2. Train Your Team
   Even the best gear is useless if workers don’t know how to use it properly. Hands-on training ensures techs and operators are competent and confident.

3. Use the Right Equipment

   • Travel Restraint Systems keep workers from reaching fall hazards.

   • Fall Arrest Systems (harness + lanyard + anchor point) protect when working near edges or elevated platforms.

   • Anchorage Points must meet CSA standards (typically capable of supporting 22.2 kN / 5,000 lbs).

4. Regularly Inspect & Maintain Equipment
   Harness stitching, D-rings, snap hooks, and lanyards degrade over time. Keep an inspection log and remove any questionable gear immediately.

5. Plan for Rescue
   A fall arrest system is only effective if there’s a safe, quick way to retrieve a worker after a fall. Every plan should include rescue procedures.

Common Fall Hazards in Crane Operations

• Walking on overhead crane bridges without guardrails.

• Climbing ladders without fall arrest systems.

• Working on elevated platforms during crane maintenance.

• Accessing runways and monorails.

By identifying these risks early, you can eliminate or reduce them with proper controls.

OCS’s Commitment to Safety

At Overhead Crane Solutions, we don’t just service cranes—we help clients create safer worksites. Our technicians are fully trained in fall protection procedures, and we support clients with:

• Equipment inspections and compliance documentation.

• Customized fall protection plans.

• Operator and worker training programs.

✅ Takeaway: Fall protection isn’t just about compliance—it’s about keeping every worker safe so they can go home at the end of the day. A strong plan, the right equipment, and ongoing training save lives.