Lifting operations involving cranes and other heavy equipment require careful planning, preparation, and execution to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
Crane operators and dogmen or riggers play critical roles in these operations, and it's important to understand their responsibilities to ensure that lifts are conducted safely and efficiently.
Crane Operator Responsibilities
The crane operator is like the captain of a ship, responsible for the safe operation of the plant during a lifting operation. The crane operator must have a thorough understanding of the crane's capabilities and limitations and follow all safety protocols and procedures.
This includes ensuring that the load remains within a safe working radius, the crane remains clear of power lines and other obstructions, the slew area remains clear, and the load remains clear of other people. The crane operator is also responsible for ensuring that the correct crane hook is in use and reeved correctly, the crane remains safe and is in the correct configuration for the lift, and that all safety protocols and procedures are followed.
To operate a crane in New Zealand, a crane operator should hold a New Zealand Certificate in Crane Operation.
Dogman / Rigger Responsibilities
The dogman or rigger is like the navigator of a ship, responsible for the safe rigging of the load and directing the lifting and placing operations by the crane. The dogman or rigger must have a thorough understanding of the load and how it can be safely lifted and positioned.
This includes ensuring that the load is rigged safely and that slings, chains, or wires are in date and remain within the working load limit throughout the lift. The dogman or rigger is also responsible for ensuring that all clutches are connected correctly, lifting points are suitable, and the load is moved in a safe manner.
To work as a dogman in New Zealand, it's ideal to hold a New Zealand Dogman Certificate.
However, a dogman may start with NZQA 3789 - Sling regular loads and communicate during crane operations.
Stopping a Lifting Operation
It's important to note that anyone can stop a lifting operation at any time. If at any point during a lift, someone feels uncomfortable or unsure about the safety of the operation, they have the responsibility to stop the operation immediately. Safety should always be the top priority in lifting operations.
Keeping her off the rocks
Just like a ship requires a captain and a navigator to safely navigate the waters, lifting operations involving cranes and other heavy equipment require a crane operator and a dogman or rigger to safely and efficiently lift and position loads.
By understanding the unique responsibilities of each role, we can ensure that lifting operations are conducted safely and efficiently, with the well-being of everyone involved as the top priority.