When training to become a skilled crane operator it is important to be ready for all aspects of operation. Training needs to not only give you the skills to operate a crane but also the awareness of how to do it safely and efficiently so that you can protect yourself and those around you whilst also meeting the high demand of a 
busy environment. There are numerous types of crane, all of which will require a different set of skills and disciplines. This 10 part guide will provide you with information about how to prepare and control a crane safely.
When operating a crane you will be faced with numerous safety, operational and maintenance challenges on a day to day basis. The key to operating an overhead crane properly is safety and certainty of control at every stage. The first thing to do before operating any heavy lifting machinery is to check the condition and operability of it before attempting to use it.
- Conduct a safety check of the controls within the crane first. Be sure that the controls are in good condition and are labelled correctly. Being unsure which controls you need when a load is in the air is a dangerous situation which must be avoided at all times. Be sure you are able to operate the crane properly before attempting to lift a load.
- Check the external safety of the crane. Before using be sure that there are no loose or damaged parts of the crane. If a tyre is underinflated or any fastenings are loose then the crane could sway or break under the load to be lifted. Make sure everything is secure before lifting anything and check that the crane moves smoothly when operated.
- Examine the hooks and fastenings on the crane. If the fastenings are bent, stretched or deformed in any way then they could potentially break when lifting, causing potentially fatal accidents. The fastenings should move smoothly and there should be no twists or snags in the system.
- Check the wire rope for tears or snags. It is essential that the wire rope remains strong and sturdy and does not catch on any moving parts during lifting or operation. A damaged wire rope should never be used in the lifting of objects.
- Check that the pathway for the crane is clear. If you are operating a mobile crane then be sure to clear the pathway and look for any bumps or inclines on the route. When operating a stationary JIB crane then you need to be sure that the pathway of the arm and load are unobstructed at all stages of movement.
Once you have established that the crane is in fit working order and have secured all of the safety devices it is time to prepare to lift a load. Lifting a load requires another selection of safety checks because it is essential to have the load securely attached before attempting to lift it.
- Make sure you always wear the correct safety gear. When working with heavy loads it is essential to protect yourself from any loss of control. Be sure you are wearing all of the required equipment before you begin attaching the load.
- Ensure that you have the correct hitch in place to secure your load. Having too weak a hitch for the load could cause it to break or catch leaving you in a very dangerous position.
- Lift the load to attach it. This will enable you to ensure it is level and properly attached before attempting to lift it with the crane. Make sure you follow all of the safety procedures for your lifting device when doing so.
- Make sure the load is balanced and then attach the fastening devices. Be sure that all elements are tightened properly and that the load is completely secure.
- Finally you will be ready to lift the load. Make one final check and then lift the load straight upwards. Avoid the load swinging by making only small adjustments at a time and be sure that you are always in control of the load. When moving a load always be aware of obstacles and listen intently for any noises which could suggest a problem with the machinery.