People have always looked to the skies for inspiration and with wonder. As our societies have developed over time, cities reach higher. The Industrial Revolution sparked an era of building, and today construction continues to be a key player in major industries worldwide. The United States has established itself prominently in the game as the second largest market of construction across the globe, with a market share of approximately 10%. And as the construction of society continues to grow, city by city, building by building, and brick by brick, it is worth examining the mechanisms that make this growth possible.

Crane cabs and their operators

It is no easy feat to operate heavy machinery, and on top of that, to operate it from such high heights. Most people can identify a crane for what it is as they pass by it on the street or spot it towering so high above from across town. But getting to know the machine on a level that allows a person to operate it is not something that many people can say they have done or will ever have the chance to do.

Being comfortable in crane cabs takes knowledge and skilled technique that can only be achieved with extensive practice over time. And before anyone tries to manipulate the heavy machine from any number of different crane cabs, there must first be detailed instructions on operation and safety. Deciding that you will be spending time in crane cabs is not a flippant decision that just anyone could do, especially without the right amount of education on those crucial safety and operation issues.

Working in construction

From knowing just what the crane baskets can handle as far as weight and maneuvering, to knowing all of the ins and outs of a machine’s rollover protection system, construction workers and heavy machine operators have a lot to pay attention to when they are on the job. It is the type of work that is good for those interested in the inner workings or building blocks of a system, those who like to see things come together from the very beginning, and those who are not easily intimidated at the thought of moving machines that weigh tons and could actually move mountains. The 7.8 million production workers across the United States who work in the construction industry are literally the backs that this society is built upon.

Protecting workers in risky work environments

Construction workers and other individuals who work with heavy machinery or are involved with similar risks in their daily duties, such as working incredibly high off of the ground, must be protected. These types of work environments have led to too many injuries and even deaths over the years, particularly before there were safety and security measures in place. OSHA, or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, sets forth plenty of guidelines and regulations to ensure the wellbeing of workers.

For example, heavy machine operators must be at least 10 feet away from the closest overhead lines or cables, to avoid the risk of catching them, creating an extremely dangerous situation. There are also studies done to find the best ergonomic fit for operators in cabs.

Just as society has come so far over the years, so have the standards for working in construction and other sectors that require the operation of heavy machinery. Keeping workers safe will allow for the continued development, growth, and progress of buildings, cities, and society as a whole.