Sunday, June 22, 2014

Man Baskets in Rigging, Demolition, and Dismantling

Suspended personnel platforms, commonly known as man baskets, crane baskets, crane cages, or construction baskets, are important equipment in the rigging and demolition industry.  R. Baker & Son frequently uses man baskets suspended from crane load lines to hoist rigging and demolition personnel to access elevated, hard-to-reach areas.  It is often the only means available for steel and concrete structures.  OSHA strictly prohibits use of crane-mounted man baskets when no other safe alternative, such as ladders, scaffolding, aerial lift, etc., is possible. 

Rigging crews and crane operators must observe strict rules and safety regulations when employing a man bucket.  The crane must be placed on firm, stable ground and riggers must perform a proof test each time a basket is installed.  The basket must be hoisted with 125% of the rated load, held for five minutes, and inspected for safety. 

Trial lifts are required at each setup location immediately before workers enter the basket.  Riggers must load the basket with the anticipated working weight and run it through the work path to ensure that all systems are working safely and properly and there are interferences. Man basket occupants must wear a body belt or harness with a lanyard to prevent falls and should stand only on the floor of the basket. Tools, materials, and equipment must be properly distributed and secured before rigging.

Contact Information:

R. Baker & Son - All Industrial Services
1 Globe Court
Red Bank, NJ 07701
Phone: 732-222-3553
Web: http://rbaker.com/news.php