Recently, Universal Cranes’ Gladstone operation put a number of operators through the CICA Articulated Crane Drive On-Road course. Branch Manager Luke Brushe was impressed with the content and the outcomes.
“We signed up for the course to ensure our operators are fully qualified and competent when operating articulated cranes on public roads,” Luke said.
“When operators are trained and assessed for CN HRWL classification, the focus in on site work, lifting and traversing with loads. There is no real focus on the specific steering characteristics when travelling at road speeds. We think this is a great initiative from the Crane Industry Council of Australia (CICA), in line with our ongoing commitment to improving safety and compliance with road transport regulations.”
The Universal Cranes’ team found the course very informative and well-structured. It covered both the practical and theoretical components clearly and at a pace that suited everyone. The practical component gave a good understanding of the machine’s mechanical functions said Luke.
He goes on to explain there were some areas in the theory element of the course that the operators found difficult.
“Some team members initially found some of the references to specific models of pick and carry machines a challenge because they hadn’t actually operated them, but with the help of their fellow colleagues they were able to work through these. It was also noted that the course wording could do with some simplifying and be set down in more layman’s terms.”
Having many years of experience as a crane operator, Sharon Pearce joined CICA as the Crane Crew Competency Officer. She is travelling the country conducting the course. The Universal Cranes’ operators were impressed with Sharon’s approach.
“Sharon was extremely knowledgeable, professional, and approachable. She explained the topics in a simple, practical way and answered all our questions thoroughly. Being an operator herself, it was easy to relate to Sharon,” said Luke.
He said key takeaways for Universal Cranes’ operators included the effects of travel speed, importance of legal responsibilities when driving on-road, and particularly the correct procedures for safe steering of articulated cranes in traffic environments.
“The course was absolutely very beneficial. It increased our team’s confidence and competence in operating pick and carry cranes safely on public roads. Our employees believe it is beneficial for experienced operators and beginners alike, if there was anything that you are unsure on, the course provides a safe space to ask questions and learn.”
The team learned about road compliance, load restraint techniques, legal responsibilities of crane operators, and practical skills for manoeuvring articulated cranes on-road.
Luke said pick and carry cranes play an important role for Universal Cranes’ Gladstone operation, frequently used for a variety of tasks due to their versatility and efficiency.
“We currently run 17 pick and carry cranes from the Central Queensland branches, and these are spread across eight different models including the AT40, MAC25 SL, MAC25, AT22, AT20, AT18, FE420e, AT15. Seven pick and carry cranes, including AT40, MAC25 SL, MAC25, AT22, AT20, FE420 e AT15 are in constant use across different projects.
“Safe operation is paramount to Universal Cranes. It not only protects our employees and the public but also maintains our reputation for professionalism and safety in the industry.
“The course was surprisingly enjoyable, content was thorough and highlighted the importance of our safety on the road.
“I believe the peer-based rollout will provide a comfortable environment for questions to be asked and information to be passed on,” said Luke.
To know more about the course click here.