There are many considerations when it comes to operating a crane safely. A partial list of guidelines includes:

• Bystanders should be 10 feet or more away from the load at all times.
• Outriggers must be deployed at all times during crane operation (also, all personnel should be clear of the outrigger before it is deployed to avoid a serious crushing injury).
• Never ride on the boom, boom hook or load line.
• Never operate the crane unless you've had the appropriate training, and never operate the crane if you're under the influence of alcohol, drugs or medications that could impair your abilities.
• The crane should be inspected daily.
• Only operate the crane on a solid, level surface.
• Never operate the crane with anyone standing under the boom or the load at any time.
• Keep at least three wraps of load line on the winch drum.
• The boom and the outriggers must be stowed at all times while the truck is in motion.
• Reduce loads to allow for factors such as wind, ground conditions, operating speeds, and the effect of freely suspended loads.
• Only operate the crane within its load and work-area limitations (never exceed winch or crane ratings).
• When the crane is in operation, pay attention to it at all times and do not engage in any distracting activities.
• Respond to any "stop" signal from anyone immediately.
• If you have to leave the crane unattended, you must first land the load, disengage the main power source, set any locking devices, put all controls in the off or neutral position, secure the crane against accidental travel (i.e., use chock blocks), and stop the engine.
• Plan your lifts carefully, taking into account the presence of power lines, bystanders, overhead obstructions, and solid surface support; position the crane so that it is impossible for it to come into contact with electricity in its fully extended position (if this is impossible, then the electrical source needs to be shut off).
• Set the parking break and disengage the drive axle before attempting a lift.
• Do not operate the crane controls when your hands are oily or greasy (it's preferable to wear gloves).
• Wear a hard hat and safety glasses during crane operation.
• Eliminate load swing by positioning the boom tip directly over the center of the load before lifting.
• First check the safety of the load by barely lifting if off the ground.
• When lifting a load, keep it as close to the ground as possible.
• Never use the boom or the winch to drag a load.
• Never lift a load you cannot see.
• Do not operate the crane during electrical storms or high winds or when suitable lighting is not available.
• Never leave a suspended load unattended.
• Never extend or retract booms out of sequence (they must be retracted and extended from largest to smallest).
• The wire rope should be inspected frequently because it is often the weak link in crane safety; wire rope will fail if it is worn, misused, overloaded, damaged, or improperly maintained.
• Crane hooks should be tested periodically to ensure that they are in sound condition (crane hooks are designed to lift a specific rated load, and this rated load only applies to new and unused hooks; age, environmental conditions and other factors alter a hook's ability to handle a load).