Crane Operators

Course Contents

Lorry mounted cranes

• Identification of the major parts of the crane
• Correct siting of lorry with precautions to be observed
• Awareness of site hazards such as power cables, soft ground etc.
• Correct use of the crane controls
• Handling various loads using attachments
• Correct slinging techniques
• Banksmans signals
• Pre-shift checks
• Knowledge of legislation including Loler and Puwer

Overhead traveling cranes

• Identification of the major parts of the crane including long travel, cross travel, etc.
• Correct use of hand controls. e.g. pendant, radio or infra red.
• General safety awareness in factory or on site as appropriate.
• Slinging various loads and the correct use of lifting devices.
• Inspection of slings and associated equipment.
• Knowledge of legislation including Loler and Puwer.
• Pre-shift checks.
• Banksmans signals.

Mobile cranes

• Knowledge of legislation including Loler and Puwer.
• Introduction to the machine.
• Introduction to controls for driving and practice including clutch control where appropriate.
• Steering exercises in order to site the crane in various locations.
• Correct and safe use of Boom controls including slew, extend, raise and lower.
• Safe use of lifting tackle.
• Site safety awareness.
• Pre-shift checks.
• Banksmans signals.

Following basic training our Instructor will accompany trainees on deliveries if required.

Please note that, unlike fork lift trucks, there is no laid down test for crane operators but they should know everything contained in guidance note GS39. For this reason we certify crane operators based on both a continuous assessment of their progress and also create a test based on site conditions.

The Ideal Trainee/Instructor Ratio is 3:1.

Successful candidates are awarded a certificate of training which is recognised by the Factory Inspectorate as proof that formal training has been carried out.