Truck Mounted Loader Crane Operation Skills Training

Objectives:
• Understand the purpose and applications of truck mounted loader cranes
• Identify key components and their functions
• Recognise relevant legislation and safety standards
• Explain the importance of pre-operational checks

Topics:
• Overview of truck mounted loader crane types and uses
• Main components: boom, hydraulic system, controls, stabilisers
• Introduction to OHS Act, SANS 10160, and manufacturer specifications
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements
• Basic safety principles and hazard awareness
• Pre-operational inspection checklist

Objectives:
• Interpret load charts for different crane configurations
• Calculate safe working loads considering boom angle and radius
• Understand the effects of outrigger positioning on capacity
• Apply load limits to prevent overloading

Topics:
• Reading load charts: radius, boom length, and capacity
• Factors affecting lifting capacity: angle, extension, stability
• Outrigger setup and ground bearing pressure
• Practical exercise: calculating safe loads from charts
• Consequences of overloading and tipping

Objectives:
• Perform thorough pre-operational inspections
• Identify common defects and wear points
• Understand daily maintenance requirements
• Complete inspection logs correctly

Topics:
• Daily inspection procedures: visual and functional checks
• Hydraulic system checks: fluid levels, leaks, hoses
• Structural integrity: cracks, deformation, loose bolts
• Safety devices: overload protection, emergency stops
• Lubrication points and greasing schedules
• Documentation and reporting defects

Objectives:
• Identify control functions and their operation
• Demonstrate smooth start-up and shutdown procedures
• Perform basic movements: hoist, slew, boom up/down
• Understand hydraulic system fundamentals

Topics:
• Control layout: joysticks, levers, foot pedals
• Hydraulic circuit basics: pump, valves, cylinders
• Starting and stopping the crane safely
• Basic manoeuvres: lifting, lowering, slewing
• Hand signals and communication with ground crew
• Common mistakes and corrective actions

Objectives:
• Select appropriate rigging equipment for loads
• Inspect slings, chains, and hooks for defects
• Apply correct hitch types: vertical, choker, basket
• Calculate sling angles and their effect on capacity

Topics:
• Types of slings: wire rope, synthetic, chain
• Inspection criteria and rejection standards
• Hitch configurations and safe working loads
• Sling angle factor calculations
• Load centre of gravity and balance
• Tag lines and load control

Objectives:
• Plan lifts considering load weight, size, and centre of gravity
• Execute lifts with smooth, controlled movements
• Maintain load stability during hoisting and slewing
• Respond to dynamic loads and wind effects

Topics:
• Lift planning: risk assessment and method statements
• Controlling load swing and pendulum effects
• Effects of wind on load stability
• Multi-point lifting and spreader beams
• Practical exercise: lifting awkward loads
• Emergency stop procedures

Objectives:
• Identify hazards associated with working at heights
• Use fall protection equipment correctly
• Understand confined space entry procedures
• Apply safe work practices in elevated operations

Topics:
• Fall protection: harnesses, lanyards, anchor points
• Working from crane baskets and platforms
• Confined space risks and atmospheric monitoring
• Permit-to-work systems
• Rescue plans and equipment
• Practical exercise: simulated elevated lift

Objectives:
• Secure loads properly for transport on public roads
• Comply with South African road transport regulations
• Inspect tie-downs and blocking devices
• Understand weight distribution and axle loads

Topics:
• National Road Traffic Act requirements
• Tie-down methods: chains, straps, binders
• Blocking and bracing techniques
• Axle load limits and overhang restrictions
• Pre-trip inspection for transport
• Documentation: load manifests, permits

Objectives:
• Perform complex lifts requiring precise positioning
• Coordinate multiple crane functions simultaneously
• Execute lifts in confined spaces
• Apply techniques for delicate or high-value loads

Topics:
• Simultaneous boom, hoist, and slew operations
• Lifting in obstructed areas
• Using remote controls for fine positioning
• Handling loads near structures or personnel
• Practical exercise: precision placement of load

Objectives:
• Identify potential emergencies: hydraulic failure, tipping, electrical contact
• Implement emergency shutdown and evacuation procedures
• Administer basic first aid for common crane-related injuries
• Report incidents according to legal requirements

Topics:
• Emergency response plans and drills
• Hydraulic system failure: safe lowering methods
• Electrical contact with power lines
• Crane tipping: causes and actions
• Fire extinguisher use and fire prevention
• First aid for crush injuries and falls
• Incident reporting to DoEL and manufacturer

Objectives:
• Conduct a site-specific risk assessment for crane operations
• Develop a safe work method statement
• Identify environmental and ground condition hazards
• Implement control measures for identified risks

Topics:
• Risk assessment process: hazard identification, risk rating
• Ground conditions: bearing capacity, slopes, excavations
• Overhead obstructions: power lines, structures
• Environmental factors: weather, lighting, noise
• Writing a method statement
• Practical exercise: risk assessment for a scenario

Objectives:
• Understand legal duties of a crane operator
• Communicate effectively with ground crew and supervisors
• Use two-way radios and hand signals
• Maintain professional conduct on site

Topics:
• Operator’s legal responsibilities under OHS Act
• Communication protocols: radio etiquette, hand signals
• Working with signal persons and riggers
• Reporting near misses and unsafe conditions
• Teamwork and situational awareness
• Practical exercise: communication drills

Objectives:
• Review all practical skills covered in previous days
• Practice integrated operations under timed conditions
• Identify personal areas for improvement
• Receive feedback on performance

Topics:
• Full crane operation sequence: inspection, setup, lift, transport
• Simulated load chart calculations
• Rigging and sling selection practice
• Emergency scenario drills
• Performance feedback and coaching
• Final Q&A session

Objectives:
• Demonstrate competency in pre-operational checks
• Perform a series of lifts following safe procedures
• Complete load securement for transport
• Respond correctly to an emergency scenario

Topics:
• Assessment of pre-start inspection
• Lifting tasks: various loads, angles, radii
• Rigging and signalling assessment
• Load securement for road transport
• Emergency shutdown and lowering
• Assessor feedback and documentation

Objectives:
• Complete written test on theory and regulations
• Review load chart interpretation
• Discuss case studies of crane incidents
• Clarify any remaining questions

Topics:
• Written assessment: legislation, safety, load charts
• Case study analysis: causes and prevention
• Group discussion on best practices
• Review of critical knowledge areas
• Individual feedback on assessment results

Objectives:
• Address any identified gaps in competency
• Or explore advanced topics: tandem lifts, offshore operations
• Enhance skills for specific industry applications

Topics:
• Remedial sessions for weak areas
• Advanced rigging: multi-crane lifts
• Offshore and marine crane operations
• Working with hydraulic attachments (grabs, magnets)
• Practical exercises tailored to learner needs

Objectives:
• Complete final practical and theory assessments
• Demonstrate full competency in all unit standard outcomes
• Receive feedback and certificate of competence
• Understand post-training responsibilities

Topics:
• Final practical assessment: comprehensive operation
• Final theory assessment (if remedial needed)
• Assessment outcome review
• Issuance of certificate and logbook
• Continuing professional development options
• Course evaluation and closing