Together with the Antwerp-based OCHA port training centre, a concept has been developed to provide customers with three stages of in-depth training. The courses aim to ensure that cranes are operated as safely and efficiently as possible.
The expanded training concept utilises an integrated approach, the first stage of which includes two weeks of simulator training. This is supplemented by a second phase with a week of hands-on training. In addition, customers can utilise on-site advanced training in a third phase to consolidate what they have learned. This is designed for trained crane operators who have already put what they have learned into practice.
Demag Cranes sees the new training courses as a further step of its strategy not only to provide its customers with innovative products, but also to offer long-term service.
Port of Napier increased productivity through training
One of the first customers to utilise the new training concept was the Port of Napier, New Zealand. As an owner of four Gottwald Mobile Harbour Cranes, the port arranged for two of its new crane drivers to receive comprehensive training in July 2011. “Since we have a vital interest in enabling our crane drivers to become familiar with their everyday work as quickly as possible, we decided to send two of them to Antwerp”, states Chris Bain, Chief Operating Officer of Port of Napier.
The simulation included training on all types of cargo, including containers, bulk materials, general cargo and project cargoes. A Gottwald HMK 260 E Mobile Harbour Crane, which has been used by the training centre since 2009, was available for the hands-on training. According to the two trainees, the result left nothing to be desired, explained Senior Crane Driver Peter van Veelen. “Our crane drivers learned as much in three weeks in Antwerp as they normally would in several months, without the need for us to make resources or staff available in New Zealand.”
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