Cargo handling training is no longer the province of sitting down at a desk, reading a brick-sized textbook and scribbling reams of notes. Today’s training is varied, adaptable and modern. And there are choices: whether it’s original equipment manufacturer (OEM) or third-party training, there are options for ports looking to give their employees a little more education.
In terms of OEM training, crane and machinery manufacturers provide a broad range of learning alternatives. Because the OEM obviously knows its own products, it can impart detailed knowledge on whichever product the port has bought. Liebherr is a case in point, providing different training methods for dry bulk cargo handling.
Key aspects covered by Liebherr for dry bulk handling include safety and general crane operation, both theoretical and practical. Another aspect is enhanced performance and efficiency, which has three main elements. “Users are informed about the optimised location of the crane – reducing move distances and slewing range,” says Philipp Helberg, marketing manager, maritime cranes. “Next, information and training are given for optimised/correct seating position based on ergonomics and giving the best view of an event.” Finally, there is information and training about the optimised use of the crane. This covers areas such as reduction of impacts including overload, side lead or fishing, the correct filling of the grab, and the correct use of options such as SmartGrip.
Employing SIMs
The Liebherr maritime crane simulator complements basic theoretical training, with special attention given to aspects such as general crane and travel operation. “A selection of scenarios, coupled with the ability to vary the difficulty of the simulation, allows the participants to train in highly diverse operating situations, for example, the correct operating procedures and protocols during diverse weather conditions,” says Mr Helberg.
Simulators provide a very high-quality method of training, he adds, and as such are able to offer numerous advantages to operators. Simulator-based performance training is also available, providing advanced knowledge. Mr Helberg explains that this aims to improve operators’ capabilities regarding the safe and efficient use of a Liebherr mobile harbour crane. “The participants will learn about the operating limits of the crane, which naturally boosts productivity in real operation,” he says.
Using a simulator for crane handling of bulk cargo gives trainees the chance to develop and hone their skills and is far more practical and less time-consuming than training in a real crane. Time and money are saved, leaving operators more enlightened about using cranes to handle dry bulk cargo.
Other OEM companies are also making the most of what the modern world can offer in terms of simulator training. Konecranes’ simulator training encompasses a broad spectrum of scenarios such as extreme weather and potentially hazardous situations. MacGregor’s offshore crane simulator training is one of a suite of training opportunities that OEM offers, which complements its Training Academy with hands-on training and theory sessions, available at both beginner and more experienced levels. A specially created 3D-simulated environment is created for users, who can experience different kinds of weather, wave directions and heights, and times of day or night.
Online solutions
Third-party companies can also give ports what they need when it comes to simulation solutions. Buenos Aires-based Terminal Zárate has called on the services of training solution provider GlobalSim to introduce two new crane simulators. The Essential Plus system is a simulation platform that provides a number of configuration choices, such as rubber-tyred gantry crane, mobile harbour crane and ship pedestal cranes. Meanwhile, a portable virtual reality system provides training for operators using a hydraulic telescopic crane. The two new simulators are due for installation in the second quarter of this year.
There are also third-party companies which specialise in creating training initiatives for ports, including courses which can be studied online. Eschewing the traditional classroom approach, training can be accessed at the press of a button – whenever and wherever.
Vistrato’s online products help boost efficient port management of dry bulk cargoes such as biomass, grain, iron ore and bauxite. A wide number of techniques are used, such as scenario-based simulations, multilingual voiceovers, information graphics and 3D animations that all help to build up knowledge of the field, while educating and evaluating participants. Participants are provided with feedback along the way, and ports can inform Vistrato about the type of training and set-ups that they would like.
Safety first
Meanwhile, the Australian Maritime College Search’s Safe Bulk Loading Practice course is a tool that helps ports with the safe loading of bulk vessels. It’s an important programme that helps to reduce the risk of accidents both in the port and on the vessel. All of the relevant skills and information required to ensure safe cargo transference between port and vessel (and vice versa) are covered in a selection of learning materials including online documents, videos, interactive images and 3D scenarios. A course can be undertaken from any location around the world and each participant works at their own pace; there are no specific start or finish dates. A final assessment involves a series of questions and if successful, the participant gains an Australian Maritime College Certificate in Safe Bulk Loading Practice.
The same e-learning principle applies to Seagull Maritime’s two bulk cargo courses. A more general picture is provided in the Common Bulk Cargoes course, which covers the properties of three popular cargoes (coal, iron ores and grains) and the potential hazards and required safety precautions. The Loading Bulk Cargoes course provides tuition in safe, efficient handling, covering aspects such as correct documentation, cargo loading calculations, safety checklists, and loading and distribution. The course is suitable for both new employees and those requiring a refresher course.
Old school methods
But while online tools and courses are available, traditional face-to-face teaching methods are still effective. Experienced and professional crane operators and trainers are provided, for example, by Liebherr, for performance training. “The trainers work for well-known and noted training centres with which Liebherr has a co-operation agreement,” says Mr Helberg.
The trainer supervises a maximum of three operators. “During this period, he evaluates different operator skills and defines the individual training program for each operator to maximise efficiency. The Liebherr crane operator training is customer-specific and focuses on the most important issues, like safety and performance.”
Another alternative for ports is to ‘go back to school’. Specially prepared courses are an excellent method, not just in terms of gaining more knowledge, but in terms of pooling of resources.
Both OEM and third-party training provide solid support for those seeking expertise in handling dry bulk cargo. The training is designed to ensure that those who take part come away feeling more enlightened – whether it’s to do with equipment handling, safety or potential risks to the cargo.
“Our training offers a number of benefits for ports,” concludes Mr Helberg. “It’s customised, provides less downtime and higher efficiency.”
VALUE OF COURSES AND SEMINARS
The Association of Bulk Terminal Operators co-organises bulk cargo courses, with the last one held in March at the University of Greenwich’s Wolfson Centre For Bulk Solids Handling Technology. The two-day course explored important issues regarding the safe handling and storage of bulk materials, both in ports and out at sea. Setting the course in such an environment allows attendees to get the best of both learning worlds, gaining theoretical and practical knowledge. Because of the interactive nature of the course, the core issues of real-world bulk handling can be discussed, allowing a sharing of ideas and resources.
Organised seminars are also a useful way to gain a greater insight into dry bulk cargo through specialised subjects such as the Liquefaction of Bulk Cargoes, due to be held at Lloyd’s Maritime Academy in November 2019. This event will look at the implications of liquefied bulk cargoes, coming at it from technical, financial and legal angles, and examine the pros and cons of current and future testing procedures.