Crane Operator

Crane operators control mobile or stationary cranes to lift, move and place objects at locations such as construction sites, wharves and shipyards.

Crane operators may perform the following tasks:

• 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.

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.

Personal Requirements:

• enjoy technical and engineering activities
• able to concentrate
• able to follow verbal instructions
• mechanical aptitude and good coordination
• good eyesight for visual judgment of distances
• comfortable working at heights
• safety conscious
• able to work as part of a team
• at least 18 years of age.

Related Jobs:

• Construction Worker
• Dogger
• Mobile Plant Operator
• Road Worker

Education and Training, Employment Opportunities and Additional Information

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