WHAT ARE THE JOB QUALIFICATIONS FOR A CRANE OPERATOR?
The job qualifications which are required for the role of a crane operator in Australia will consist of enrolling in a course which involves eleven different units of training which is necessary to gain a crane operator’s license which must be completed to enable these types of machinery. This type of training also involves obtaining a trade outcome in mobile crane operation to learn how to perform and operate cranes and this type heavy equipment.
It is also a requirement to hold a certificate three in construction crane operation. This particular course of training will prepare the operator for working in both commercial and residential construction projects and sites. It also teaches all the basics and fundamentals and necessary skills involved in crane operations including the importance of effective written and verbal communication and all the duties and responsibilities which are involved in operating heavy machinery including a crane.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO BECOME A CRANE OPERATOR IN AUSTRALIA?
In Australia, the length of time required to gain a license in crane operation will depend upon the training program and organization and also the type of crane which the trainee will be operating. Normally it can take anywhere between a few months to a couple of years, although the usual duration to obtain a Crane Operator Training qualification will normally take twelve months to complete. The requirements are:
- Holding a driving license which is valid with a clean record of driving
- A strong understanding of all the relevant safety regulations and industry standards
- Physical fitness and the ability to pass a pre-employment physical examination
- A series of competency-based units under the bracket of Nationally Recognized Training (High Risk Cranes)
- These units are all necessary to achieve and must be completed successfully.
WHAT IS THE WORK OF A CRANE OPERATOR?
The tasks involved in working as a crane operator will involve lifting and positioning objects and being able to place them in the correct position. They are also responsible for carrying out inspections and maintenance of the equipment. Checking the ground conditions is also essential before setting up the crane, and placing steel plates or timber under the crane’s outrigger pads.
The operator of a crane is ultimately responsible for ensuring all the movements of any load which is attached to the crane and providing the safety of the crane itself and all the coworkers and other employees. A crane operator’s role does involve high risk situations which entail working under extreme pressure, therefore it does require a solid knowledge of how the equipment operates and also an in depth understanding and commitment towards the safety of the workplace.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF A CRANE OPERATOR?
A career in crane operations would be highly regarded, valued and advantages in several different ways. Firstly, by gaining the type of qualifications which will be required will enable the operator to obtain the kind of skills which are necessary and in high demand constantly whether it’s working on a construction project or site, a residential building or for a commercial purpose. The operator is extremely responsible as their tasks will involve having the knowledge and understanding of how to drive and control the crane whilst lifting heavy objects and machinery and transferring them to the required position.
They will also need to be knowledgeable of all the safety measures and procedures involved both for themselves and all the other employees which can be quite demanding and stressful at times. Due to the type of responsibility, the crane operation position is a very profitable and financially beneficial career choice.
CONCLUSION
A crane operator is an extremely valuable career choice and one which will always be in high demand due to the level of responsibility and safety which they provide. They can work in a variety of different environments Including: A construction project or site, a warehouse or in the mining industry which includes slewing, extracting ore or moving earth or mining materials. This type of operator does require a high level of knowledge, skills and expertise and is a vital element of the whole process for the project to be successfully implemented and achieved.
Crane operation itself holds many important aspects and requirements towards the regulation, safety and security of the process being completed. This profession offers different opportunities for career advancement and growth including supervision roles, and due to the level of responsibility, this profession offers a highly satisfactory, enjoyable and fulfilling career.
