Cranes play a major role in almost any construction or mining project. Oftentimes, the on-time completion of a project depends heavily on the efficiency of the crane operator. This is one of the main reasons why selecting an experienced crane operator is of the utmost importance.
A crane operator has a lot of responsibilities on the project site, as well as outside the project site. He must ensure that the crane is performing properly, that it passed all the technical inspections and that it was regularly serviced. All these aspects are very important for the safety of everyone on the project site.
Nonetheless, the crane operator is also responsible for choosing the right type of crane for every project. He must know if your project requires a mobile crane or a tower one, as well as make sure that the chosen crane can lift all the weights on the site. An operator works with the client and advises him on HSEQ measures; he also has the authority to cease working if he does not consider that he may proceed safely.
Of course, all crane operators undergo heavy trainings and theoretically prepared for all kinds of situations that may appear during their job. However, it is common knowledge that their skills can only be improved by practical work, by being in the field and being confronted with situations that have yet to be described in books.
Besides the safety consideration, an experienced crane operator is definitely more efficient than a novice. When hiring such a worker, make sure that he has previously worked on similar projects and you will enjoy numerous benefits. The most important of these benefits is the timely completion of the project. An experienced worker will not only perform his job quickly and accurately, he will also be able to provide you with tips & tricks on how to increase the efficiency of the entire project. Having been in the field a lot, he was able to see how successful projects are completed and what the most frequent mistakes are. Thus, if you are working with an experienced crane operator, it is advisable to spend some time with him and pick his brain; ask him what he thinks you can improve and what steps should be taken in order to have a more efficient and safer project site.
Surely, one may argue that an experienced crane operator has a bigger fee than a beginner. However, think of all the risks that you are avoiding when working with experienced professionals. Moreover, you may be surprised to find out that an experienced worker can actually save you money. Correctly implemented HSEQ rules and regulations will never result in expensive lawsuits and an experienced crane operator can surely abide by these rules without compromising his efficiency. Last, but not least, in these sensitive fields, experience is the most valuable asset a worker can have; this is the key feature for completing the project on time and on budget.