The operator is generally responsible for the safety of the crane operation as soon as the load is lifted clear of the ground. Because of this responsibility, wherever there is reasonable cause to believe that the lift might be dangerous or unsafe, the operator must refuse to lift until the concern has been reported to the supervisor, any hazards rectified, and safe conditions assured.

The operator is also generally responsible for:

• Knowing the machine well. The operator must understand its functions and limitations as well as its operating characteristics.
• Being totally familiar with the crane’s load chart. The operator must understand the correct meaning of all notes and warnings and be able to calculate or determine the crane’s actual net capacity for every possible configuration of the machine.
• Inspecting and maintaining the crane regularly as prescribed by both the owner and manufacturer.
• Informing the owner of any problems, needed maintenance or necessary repairs to the machine. This should be done in writing, preferable in the machine’s log book.
• Recording in the log book the details of all inspections, maintenance and work done on the crane while in the field.
• Supervising and training the oiler.
• Being aware of any site conditions that could affect the crane operation and in particular the presence of power lines. The operator must refuse to operate if the crane, hoist rope or load will come close to a power line that the absolute limit of approach specified in law.
• Checking that the site is adequately prepared for the crane.
• Reviewing the planned operation and requirements with the site supervision.
• Finding out the load and rigging weight and determining where the load is to be placed. Although the operator is not responsible for determining the weight of the load, if the operator does so or lifts it without checking the weight with the site supervision then the operator becomes totally responsible for the lift and any consequences that come from it.
• Determining number of parts of hoist lines required.
• Checking the load chart to insure that the crane has sufficient net capacity for every lift.
• Selecting (from the range diagram) the best boom, jib and crane configuration to suit the load, site and lift conditions.
• Assembling, setting up and rigging the crane properly.
• Following the manufacturer’s operating instruction in accordance with the load chart.
• Considering all factors that might reduce crane capacity and adjusting the load weight to suit.
• Knowing basic load rigging procedures and insuring that they are applied (possible only when the load is visible to the operator).
• Maintaining communication with signal persons.
• Insuring that the oiler is in a safe place during operation.
• Operating in a smooth, controlled and safe manner.
• Moving the crane.
• Shutting down and securing the machine properly when it is unattended.