Crane Exclusion Zone

A crane exclusion zone is used to ensure the safety of everyone working on-site. It is a defined area where people are not allowed to go when particular work is being done to avoid the risk of being injured by the crane or falling objects.

Before using a crane, a risk assessment must be carried out to determine the size of the exclusion zone needed then set up appropriate signage and barriers, eg perimeter fencing, to mark out the exclusion zone.

It is important to have procedures in place to prevent entry into the crane exclusion zone unless they are signed onto the plan, and to include the exclusion zone in workers induction.

Safe Work Australia has released a guide for Crane usage including exclusion zones here.

Company Fined After Failing to Implement Exclusion Zone

In 2017, a bricklayer, working on a Lendlease site in Perth, suffered a toe amputation after a 200 kg frame fell onto the worker’s foot.

The bricklayer was employed by a subcontractor, Kuredale, whose workers were using a crane to lift a steel truss when it hit a section of frame attached to a concrete slab. The frame detached and fell, narrowly missing several other workers.

It was alleged that Lendlease and Kuredale had failed to implement an exclusion zone and provide adequate training, instruction, and supervision to workers.

Kuredale Pty Ltd pleaded guilty and was fined $75,000. And this month, the principal contractor, Lendlease, was found guilty of persistent and serious safety failures following a trial in the Perth Magistrates Court and has been fined $100,000.

Read the full report here.