One of the responsibilities that you'll face when you build your own home is scheduling various construction contractors to visit the property for various functions. Even if you have the intention of doing much of the building work on your own, you'll still need to involve specialized equipment operators, including a crane operator, at some point during the job -- for example, to lift your roofing trusses. Whether you're interested in watching the crane operator work or you're busy performing other tasks while the job is done, you need to make safety a priority. You can do so by keeping these tips in mind.

Make Eye Contact With The Operator Before Approaching

Whether you wish to talk to the crane operator or you'll just be passing near the crane for a task you're working on, do so only after you've made clear eye contact. Stand in an open area with a clear line of sight between you and the operator's cabin and wait for him or her to notice you. The noise of the equipment can make it difficult to communicate verbally, so use hand movements to convey your message once you know that the operator is looking at you.

Never Take A Shortcut Beneath A Hanging Load

You shouldn't get complacent and dash in front of the machine when it's holding a load in the air. Crane operators will often pick up a load and hold it until it's needed. Even though the load might appear secure, walking below it is one of the most dangerous safety mistakes you can make. Even if you're doing something that's physically challenging, such as pushing a wheelbarrow, always take a safe route around the crane.

Don't Go Near The Crane When It's In Use

Whenever the crane is in use, there's a risk that it will pivot quickly. If the operator can't see you, he or she could pivot the crane and the body could crush you quicker than you could react to get out of the way. Always have a healthy respect for the size and quick movements of the crane by staying away whenever the operator is at the controls.

Talk About Overhead Hazards With The Operators

While your crane service operator should be acutely aware of any overhead hazards, such as power lines, it's useful to talk to him or her about these issues before the job begins. Typically, the crane will need to be set up in a designated area; as the owner of the property, it's your responsibility to ensure that the area is safe. For example, the operator might ask you to trim a could errant tree branches for optimal safety before the crane work begins.