Risk Assessment
It is the systematic process in which the hazards on a machine are identified, their magnitude estimated, and the reduction measures decided. All safety targets — such as the required performance level, the stop category, and the acceptable signal loss time — are determined at this step.
The process is iterative: the boundaries are set, the hazards listed, the risk estimated, a measure applied, and the risk assessed again. The order of measures is also defined; first eliminate the hazard by design, then add guards and safety functions, and lastly manage the residual risk through information and training.
Typical questions that enter the assessment on a radio remote controlled crane:
- Can the operator get under the load, and can this be prevented?
- What is the stopping distance on signal loss, and what hazard does that distance create?
- How many shifts, how many operators, what level of training?
- How do the interference sources in the environment affect range and response time?
Moving to a wireless remote control does not only reduce risk, it also transforms it: the operator moves away from under the load, but the angle of view and distraction bring new risks. For this reason, when you convert an existing crane to wireless control, renew the risk assessment and update the machine file.
The context in which this term is used: Wireless Crane Remote Control Selection Guide