Cargo handling experts launch crane safety initiative

In announcing the project Laurence Jones TT Club’s Director of Global Risk Assessment said, ‘There are many features available for the design of quay container cranes which can dramatically improve safety, reducing exposure to injury, damage and disruption costs. Our group wants to ensure that such features are included as standard and not optional in specifications tendered by equipment manufacturers.’

TT Club has a reputation for researching, assessing and nurturing technological advances that will enhance safety and performance in the operational port environment. In the past TT has recommended, for example, the installation of boom anti-collision sensors, which have proven benefits in preventing damage costs and business disruption, as well as improving safety for crane operators, terminal personnel and ships’ crews.

Port Equipment Manufacturers Association (PEMA) President, Ottonel Popesco said, ‘The issue that the project seeks to address is developing a benchmarked minimum standard safety specification for quayside container cranes. This may include issues such as boom anti-collision sensors, appropriate interlocking and gate locks between the crane cabin and boom, safe stairway inclines and handrail heights, gantry drive and braking systems, storm brakes, storm pins and tie-downs. Just like seat belts in cars, critical safety features should be standard and not optional. As part of PEMA’s mission to support and contribute to best practice initiatives, we hope that this project will make a valuable contribution to our industry and our customers by defining common guidelines for quay crane safety features.’