After a crane operator suffered serious injuries earlier this year while attempting to stow the crane’s lattice extension, the Mine Safety and Health Administration has issued a serious accident alert for crane operators.

MSHA said the lattice extension was not mechanically secured or blocked in the February 27, 2017, accident and the lattice extension fell on the miner standing beneath it, causing serious injury.

The federal agency recommended best practices include:

• Securely rig a load prior to lifting or moving.
• Confirm that the load will not exceed the allowable capacity of the rigging.
• Prior to attempting a lift, know the weight of the load (including the load block and rigging) and make sure it is less than the crane’s lifting capacity for the required reach. Refer to applicable load charts.
• Perform a thorough pre-operational inspection of the crane and rigging components.
• Observe and follow all warning labels and signs on equipment.
• Stay clear of a crane’s overhead boom and do not work beneath a suspended load.
• Always be aware of your location in relation to machine parts that can move.