In March at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023, the largest Construction Expo in North America, Alice Edwards, CICA Road Technical Engineer, and Patrick Cran, CICA CraneSafe and CrewSafe Technical Advisor, were invited to present on Crane Basics.
An audience of over 150 construction professionals filled the presentation room to better understand the many facets that need to be considered before and during crane lifts.
Alice unpacked why it is so important to;
1. Know the load – the weight, shape and centre of gravity.
2. Know the crane and rigging – to understand which crane is right for the task, what rigging is required and the implications of making the wrong choice.
3. Know the crew and their capabilities.
4. Understand the site condition, how to measure ground pressure, manage inclines and adjust accordingly.
5. Know how external environmental factors can impact crane works and how to mitigate the risks.
The presentation contained ‘meaty’ information but was also interspersed with some Aussie humour. This was the first time anyone from CICA had been asked to present at ConExpo and the feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, many from the construction space affirming an appreciation for the simplified overview, which gave them a greater appreciation for the complexities of crane lifts.
Alice Edwards frequently presents at Monash University and is an advocate of cross-trade learning, believing that operating in silos does not benefit anyone. Alice believes that the cross-pollination of learning and ideas in the construction sector will improve safety, employee engagement and is more likely to lead to solutions.
Winner of the 2019 Women in Industry Awards, Alice was recognised for her formulation of industry guidance papers, position papers, the Crane Industry Code of Practice and industry standards – all of which contribute to a safe and efficient crane industry. Being asked to present at ConExpo-Con/Agg was an honour, recognising both Alice and Pat’s experience and vast knowledge.
Held in March, ConExpo-Con/Agg utilised more than 260 000m2 of exhibitor space and brought more than 1,800 exhibitors to Las Vegas.
It is the largest construction trade show in North America and the premier event that connects professionals from every major construction sector. Held every three years, planning for the next ConExpo-Con/Agg which will be held March 3-7, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada, is already underway.