Crane operators control mobile or stationary cranes to lift, move and
place objects at locations such as construction sites, wharves and
shipyards.
Crane operators use cranes to lift and move
heavy objects at locations such as construction sites, large-scale
manufacturing operations, mine sites, wharves and other work sites. When
setting up at a site, crane operators must check the condition of the
ground, ensuring that it is firm and level, and for any potential obstacles,
such as overhead powerlines. They must also be aware of the safe working
limits of their crane, to ensure that loads are not too heavy and that the
crane's reach is not over-extended. Crane operators often work closely with
doggers, observing and following their directions to guide loads into
position.
ANZSCO ID & Description: 7121: Operates
stationary and mobile cranes, hoists, lifts and winches to lift, move and
place materials, equipment and people in areas such as building sites,
factories, mines, sawmills, wharves and shipyards. Registration or licensing
is required.
Alternative names: Crane Driver, Crane Operator, Mobile
Crane Operator
check the condition of the ground (e.g. building site) before
setting up the crane
place timber blocks or steel plates under the outrigger pads of the
crane
check that the crane is level on the outriggers before attempting to
lift and place a load
be aware of how much material can be safely hoisted in each load
according to the crane's capacity and the weather conditions (e.g. high
winds)
make sure that cranes are ready for use by checking controls,
instruments and gauges
move the crane and position the hook so that doggers can attach
loads, slings, shackles and chains
check crane cabin instruments to make sure that loads hooked on
their machines are within safe working limits
observe and follow the signals given by doggers who direct the
moving and positioning of the loads
maintain cranes by inspecting them for defects or wear, lubricate
ropes and winches, and replace worn cables.
Working conditions
Crane operators work at construction sites, warehouses, wharves, mine sites
and manufacturing operations throughout Australia. They work in most weather
conditions, except high wind and heavy rain, though they often operate the
crane from within an enclosed cabin. Many crane operators work irregular
hours, which can often include working nights and on weekends. This work can
be hazardous and crane operators will have to follow strict safety
guidelines to minimise the risks.
Crane operators on building and construction sites work in all
conditions. They may operate a variety of cranes: gantry cranes, used to
move shipping containers; tower cranes, often used on large building
projects; overhead cranes, used in factories and workshops; and mobile
cranes, which may be truck mounted.
Tools and technologies
Crane operators may work with a range of different types of cranes, such as
tower cranes, gantry cranes or mobile cranes, depending on the requirements
of each job. Two-way or CB radios are often used to communicate with doggers
and other workers on the site. Safety requirements often require crane
operators to wear protective clothing, which can include a hardhat,
overalls, high-visibility clothing and boots.
Education and training/entrance requirements
To work as a crane, hoist or lift operator in Australia, you must obtain a
High Risk Work Licence for the specific class of crane you wish to operate,
issued by WorkSafe.
In order to be issued a High Risk Work Licence, you must be at least 18
years old and complete a training course for the class of crane you wish to
operate, conducted by TAFE colleges and other registered training
organisations throughout Australia.
You can also complete a traineeship. The mobile crane operator traineeship
usually takes 24 months to complete.
Workers in the construction industry must undergo safety induction training
and be issued with a Construction Induction Card (commonly known as a “white
card”). In Australia, training is conducted by registered training
organisations authorised by WorkSafe.
Did You
Know?
"Babu Sassi, a fearless young man from southern India is the
cult hero of Dubai 's army of construction workers.
Known as the "Indian on the top of the world", Babi is the crane
operator at the world's tallest building , the 819-meter Burj Dubai.
[* now called "Burj Khalifa" - is tallest
building in the world] His office, the
cramped crane cab perched on top of the Burj, is also his home.
Apparently it takes too long to come down to the ground each day to make
it worthwhile. When the building is completed, its elevators will be the
world's fastest.
Stories about his daily dalliance with death are discussed in revered
terms by Dubai 's workers. Some say he has been up there for more than a
year, others whisper that he's paid 30,000 dirhams ($8,168) a month
compared with the average wage of 800 dirhams a month. All agree he's
worth it."
(Source: Hoax-Slayer: Highest Position in the World - Babu Sassi Crane
Operator)