The UK’s PD Ports has invested GBP400,000 (USD485,566) in a crane simulator at Tees Dock that can recreate high-risk scenarios.
Manufactured by GlobalSim, the simulator was imported from the USA earlier this year and has been programmed to replicate ship-to-shore cranes, rubber-tyred gantry cranes and mobile harbour cranes operated at Teesport.
Crane drivers can practice what to do if things go wrong, in a non-pressured, safe environment, said PD Ports. The machine can present different conditions, such as high winds or working at night. It can also simulate a hoist break failure, where the container just starts to fall – so the crane operator gets the experience of hearing certain alarms and dealing with specific faults in a safe space.
It is also programmed to train on hazard perceptions, such as a crew member walking underneath a load.
The simulator can also be used by trainee drivers so they can learn the basics of operating a crane without disrupting live operations at the dock.
The investment in the simulator was the idea of Martin Walker, PD Ports group engineering manager, electrical. “We started thinking about this investment back in 2020, as we were recruiting drivers who needed to be trained and often our plant availability limits us doing this,” he said. “It was a big investment to make but the benefits this machine with provide have already been demonstrated.
“As well as providing a safe space to learn, the simulator also supports our carbon emission reduction efforts, as the simulator uses less energy than a real crane, no fuel and no carbon emissions.”
Frans Calje, ceo of PD Ports, said: “The simulator offers next level training for our crane drivers. As well as learning how to operate a crane, it gives them a chance to understand the deeper risks in their role and prepares them for any eventuality.”
