Trends in the Tower Crane Operator Trade
Technology
There are advances in computer technology, metallurgy and other disciplines associated with the engineering of crane equipment. Equipment is becoming more specialized in both design and manufacturing. This applies to structural, mechanical and electrical components.
Due to technological advances in operator aids such as load moment indicators (LMI), tower crane operators are more aware of their crane’s operation and its limitations. Other operator aids such as anti-collision, zone protection systems and camera systems are now required by regulation in some jurisdictions.
Flat-top and luffing tower cranes are becoming more common due to their practicality. Luffing tower cranes that operate hydraulically are being introduced. Boom angle indicators have expanded into luffing tower cranes (these are now mandatory in some provinces and territories). Most manufacturers include them - they have become a standard on most new models.
The use of self-erecting cranes is becoming more popular/common in the field (e.g., when lifting pre-formed wall forms, insulated concrete forms (ICF), and other prefabricated building components). Using these types of cranes has proved more efficient.
Some manufacturers of cranes are introducing full synthetic hoist lines to replace steel wire rope. Benefits include lighter weights and non-conductive properties of the lines. It is expected that this change may be more common in the coming years. Operators need to be aware of these changes when performing inspection and maintenance.
Steel bar pendants are now being used instead of wire rope pendants in some applications.
Old cranes utilize analog controls and switches, whereas newer equipment utilizes programmable logic controller (PLC) panels and digital technology.
Newer cranes are using variable frequency drives (VFD) instead of contactor driven drives. The controls with these drives are infinitely variable and allow for more precise control.
Simulators have improved and are more commonly incorporated into training programs.
Health and Safety
There is more due diligence required of the operators and personnel performing preventative maintenance.
Tower crane operators must have an increased awareness of equipment limitations and conditions that affect safe operation of the crane.
Specialized personal protective equipment (PPE) developed for working at heights and self-rescue kits are becoming more widely available.
The density of structures in urban settings (e.g., proximity to other buildings) and the height of the buildings may cause wind tunnels and increased winds.
Products/Materials
With the advances in high rise construction, materials and equipment being hoisted are becoming lighter making fly forms bigger and longer and thus creating more impact by the wind during the lift (e.g., spinning). Tower crane operators must be aware of this and its safety implications.
Historically, the operator primarily “operated the crane”. Nowadays, the operator is increasingly involved in coordination of hoisting operations (e.g., pouring concrete) and must understand the timing of the work involved.
It is increasingly important for operators to be aware of manufacturers’ specifications and tolerances that are engineered into its design so that they can perform inspections with an increased level of care.
Legislative and Regulatory
The regulatory environment in which Canada’s crane industry operates continues to grow more complex and more rigorous, covering issues such as licensing, due diligence and liability.
Canadian Standards Association (CSA) Z248 and jurisdictional regulations continue to evolve over time. Tower crane operators must stay current with these changes.
Counterweight blocks must be engineered, and their weights identified.
In some jurisdictions, the use of zoning devices and anti-collision systems are mandatory for tower cranes working in proximity to powerlines or configured in an overlap scenario with other cranes.