The Skills Acquired Through Crane Operator Training

When it comes to training for any heavy equipment, crane operator training included, the language used can look a little strange. Take a look at these skills (and they are a real set of skills too):

• Clean, lubricate, and maintain mechanisms such as cables, pulleys, and grappling devices.
• Determine load weights and check them against lifting capacities in order to prevent overload.
• Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
• Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving equipment.
• Using hand and arm signals for installing, handling, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.

Most people would only think about the 4th item in that list, “running, maneuvering, navigating or driving equipment” when looking at skills for a crane operator. However as you can see it goes much further than that.

Keeping your machine clean and well oiled put together with an walk around inspection each day can help to avoid major maintenance issues and long down times for repairs. Knowing which weights should be used for each lift is an essential part of crane operator safety training.

The final point is equally important. Hand signals are often the only way those at ground level can communicate with a crane operator. There are many times when the crane operator cannot see the ground. Those on the ground become the operators eyes communicating by way of radio or whistles.

Looking for crane operator training? Do you think you can master that skill set? If you said yes to both then I suggest you visit ATS Heavy Equipment Operator schools and check out the start dates for the next crane operator training curse.