Comparison of Crane Safety Standards: A Human Factors Perspective

OCCUPATIONAL APPLICATIONSWe compared offshore crane safety standards in the United States, United Kingdom, and Norway, focusing on human factors contributing to incidents. High similarity was found in maintenance procedures, hand signals, and communication, reflecting shared priorities like adhering to manufacturer recommendations and enforcing substance abuse policies. Moderate alignment was observed in inspection intervals, personal protective equipment requirements, and personnel roles, with some variation in specific practices. Notable gaps were identified in training, lift categorization, and personnel qualifications, with the United States emphasizing certification timelines, while the United Kingdom and Norway focus on ongoing competence. These findings highlight strengths in each standard and offer a roadmap for harmonizing global practices. Practitioners can use these results to benchmark current practices, address gaps, and reduce human error. By aligning international standards, practitioners can develop more effective training, improve communication protocols, and implement consistent safety measures, ultimately enhancing the reliability and safety of offshore lifting operations.