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Vice president global sales
ALISTER WILLIAMS 843 637 4127
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CLIENT SUCCESS & DIGITAL DIRECTOR
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CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
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KHL GROUP AMERICAS LLC
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Busy days
Summer is waning at last, and the year is more than half way over. As the long, hot Dog Days of summer are upon us, a lot is going on in the realm of lifting, rigging and specialized transport. Generally, August is a “slow news” month, but that’s not the case for our industry. Everyone seems to be running at full tilt, and that’s a good thing.
The biggest news in ACT this month is our TOWERCRANE50 top list, which ranks by fleet size the largest tower crane-owning companies in North America.
The TOWERCRANE50 index dropped slightly in 2024, reflecting a rather flat market sector. While some companies have grown their fleets, most have stayed about the same.
In line with our TOWERCRANE50, we have included an article that covers the tower crane services sector. This sector involves companies that erect, inspect and dismantle tower cranes. It’s an industry niche that requires specialized services and know-how.
ProMiles Software’s Steven Todd is one of the industry’s most well-known and respected professionals. In our Interview this month, Todd discusses permitting, harmonization and other important issues facing the specialized transportation sector. Also this month, we take a look at crane cameras and other aids that help operators perform their jobs safer and more productively. We also take a look at the rough terrain crane market. Our Rigging Matters column discusses the top five best practices of load securement.
For your KHL cranes and transport team editors, now is the time of year that we plan next year’s editorial. Can you believe we are already thinking about our Bauma coverage? We are also looking and trends and issues that will be important to our readership in 2025. We would love to get your ideas for topics that you would like to see covered next year.
One of the biggest things on the horizon for readers of KHL’s crane magazines and website is the debut of Crane & Transport Briefing just after Labor Day. Like nothing that has ever landed in your inbox, our daily briefing will feature a lead article that is topical and highly pertinent. There will be links to other news as well. A subscriber-only communiqué, visit www.craneandtransportbriefing.com to subscribe.
And finally, now is a great time to let us know what’s going on with your equipment, people and jobs.
D.ANN SLAYTON SHIFFLER Editor
KHL Group Americas, 30325 Oak Tree Drive, Georgetown TX 78628 +1 512-868-7482 | d.ann.shiffler@khl.com
Eliminate paper and bring in a scaled jobsite with touch of button 3D LiftVision
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Place your operators and/or customers in the seat “virtually” in any 3D Lift Plan you create!
Steven Todd discusses the work of ProMiles Software and how much the specialized transportation sector impacts his
Five best practices for load securement.
Hannah Sundermeyer reports on the 2024 TOWERCRANE50
The rough terrain crane is a fleet favorite, and the market is perpetually solid.
Operator aid technologies
Tower crane service providers are critical players in the erection, maintenance and take-down of tower cranes.
Jaso focuses new models on the Prefabricated Prefinished Volumetric Construction method with projects in Singapore, Spain and Canada.
Mary the tunnel boring machine is grinding away on a highway project in Virginia.
American Cranes & Transport makes every effort to ensure that editorial and advertising information carried in the magazine is true and accurate, but KHL Group Americas LLC cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies and the views expressed throughout the magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher. KHL Group Americas LLC cannot be held liable for any matters resulting from the use of information held in the magazine. The publisher is not liable for any costs or damages should advertisement material not be published. American Cranes & Transport is published 11 times a year by KHL Group Americas LLC, 14269 N
An effective program addresses three pillars: physical health, mental/ emotional
and
Joel Dandrea discusses.
The latest SC&RA 4 Under 40 recipients commit to industry’s next chapter.
The impact of rising costs on the crane, rigging and specialized carrier industry.
Tadano partners with Vestas
Japanese crane manufacturer Tadano has announced a new global collaboration with Danish wind power manufacturer Vestas to develop and sell wind turbine nacelle cranes. The new collaboration will develop and promote the sales of nacelle
n Colorado Crane Operator School (CCOS), of Longmont, CO, has been qualified by CCO Education Services as an Accredited Training Provider. The accreditation process required meeting a 40+ point Accredited Training Provider Standard that included submitting hundreds of pages of documentation demonstrating that the standard was met.
n The CCRA Canadian Lift of the Year Award Over 20T is Sterling Crane. The Canadian Lift of the Year Award under 20T is Irving Crane.
cranes designed for Vestas’ V236 offshore wind turbines.
“We aim to contribute to the offshore wind power generation sector, which is also being promoted by the Japanese government, through our product lineup, and we strive to achieve carbon net zero by 2050,” Tadano said.
Although Tadano will not disclose at this time the specifications of the nacelle crane and other
detailed information, Tadano commented that the cranes will require high durability and maintainability against strong offshore winds and high salinity.
“We believe that by leveraging our strengths
Mammoet to split into two business units
The world’s largest heavy lifting and specialized transport company is being separated into two business units to better serve its customers.
In a move dubbed Project Elevate, Netherlandsheadquartered Mammoet will have one business unit for large project-based work and another for crane rental. This is to enhance agility, efficiency and effectiveness, the company said.
Energy and infrastructure are key markets for Mammoet. The company said its dynamic
Manitowoc launches two new Grove cranes
Manitowoc has unveiled two new Grove rough-terrain cranes, the GRT765 and GRT780, which were were presented for the first time to dealers and customers at Manitowoc’s Crane Days event in Shady Grove, PA this past May.
Deliveries of the first units will begin in the second half of 2024, the company said.
The Grove GRT765 replaces the RT765E-2 in the current rough-terrain crane lineup. It offers a 65-ton maximum
nature requires faster decision making to deliver a worldleading service.
Project Elevate helps Mammoet to deploy its equipment and expertise where it can best add value for its clients. It achieves this by operating smarter – becoming more agile, more efficient and more effective, with faster decision making.
Jan Kleijn, Mammoet COO, will lead the projects business. Wouter van Noort, regional director Europe, will head crane rental services. Mammoet is also working
and long history as a crane manufacturer, we can contribute to the spread of offshore wind power generation, which is one of the important energy policies of the Japanese government,” Tadano said.” n
to strengthen the business in the areas of commercial, engineering, procurement and sustainability. n
capacity and a 126-foot foursection full power boom. The Grove GRT780 will replace both the RT770E and the GRT880 in the current
A signing ceremony was held at the Danish Embassy in Shibuya, Tokyo, attended by Toshiaki Ujiie, President and CEO of Tadano Ltd., (left) Raphael Huot, VP and head of procurement APAC at Vestas.
PHOTO:
TADANO
Project Elevate sees Mammoet separated into two divisions.
PHOTO: MAMMOET
The Grove GRT765 replaces the RT765E-2 in the current rough-terrain crane lineup.
PHOTO: COLORADO CRANE OPERATOR SCHOOL
Flat tops propel Arizona towers project
Clayco used three STF-8041 tower cranes, supplied by Stafford Tower Cranes, on the South Pier construction project in Tempe, AZ.
The 21-story residential and commercial towers are located along the bank of Tempe Town Lake. The cranes were erected to a height of 331 feet as part of Phase 2 of the project, using Stafford’s climbing frame above the single tie. All three cranes have a 35.3-ton maximum load capacity, with a tip load of 4.5 tons, anchored to a concrete foundation.
During the erection process, the Stafford Crane Group (SCG) team used its Tadano AC 7.450-1 as the assist crane. All three cranes were erected in six days. Safety was the number one priority, SCG said. The project is expected to be completed by 2026.
The project’s location next to a lake presented a challenge with a prominent over-swing requiring accurate zoning.
rough-terrain crane lineup and offers an 80-ton maximum capacity with a 155-foot fivesection full-power boom.
“Customers will immediately notice the significant improvements in reach and strength, but we’ve also packed a lot of other benefits into these new models,” said John Bair, product manager for rough-
New 2,500-ton crawler crane for Mammoet
Prefabrication both on and offsite is a growing trend offering multiple benefits in quality, safety and construction efficiency. Larger cranes are needed to facilitate this move, so now is the time to gear up for it. As Mammoet said, “assurance is needed that today’s project planning will match tomorrow’s equipment.”
To this end, the latest to join the global Mammoet fleet of heavy lift cranes is a 2,500-metric ton capacity Liebherr LR 12500-1.0 lattice boom crawler crane, the first of its type for the Netherlandsheadquartered global giant. Looking at the heavy lift fleet of series-production cranes, it sits between the 3,000 metric ton capacity Liebherr LR 13000 and the 1,350 metric ton capacity Liebherr LR 11350.
In the energy sector this and other large cranes will be increasingly important in shortening construction time, improving cost effectiveness on new build projects and reducing downtime in upgrades and planned maintenance shutdowns. Wind turbines are still getting bigger and large ones are becoming the norm.
terrain cranes. “The operators will love the comfort of our new, wider cab as well as the expanded CCS display. We’ve also added the latest productivity and fleet management technology with our MAXbase variable outrigger positioning system and the Grove CONNECT telematics platform.”
Both models feature a 35 to
Offshore turbine nacelles weigh 1,000 tons and tower sections double that. Heaviest turbine components, however, are the monopile and jackettype foundations, weighing 3,000 tons. A 200 meter hook height is possible on the LR
56-foot bi-fold swingaway jib which can be manually offset up to 45 degrees. For the GRT765 there is 15,200 pounds of counterweight, while the GRT780 comes with 17,500 pounds of counterweight, although customers can boost this to 20,500 pounds for even greater strength, according to Manitowoc Grove.
Liebherr LR 12500 is the first unit of its type for the Dutch giant’s heavy lift fleet.
12500-1.0 using a 100 meter main boom and 108 meter luffing jib. n
n Wolffkran has ended its joint venture in Norway with Mikkelsen AS. Wolffkran will now hold 100 percent ownership of Wolffkran Norge, created to provide rental and sales of Wolffkran tower cranes in the country. The Wolffkran subsidiary continues to be led by CTO, Operations Manager, and Managing Director Frank Kvam. The board of the subsidiary consists of Chairman Sven Jung, CEO Duncan Salt and Managing Director Andreas Kahl.
Mammoet’s new
n Tadano distributor Lennon Crane sold Vancouver, WAbased Northbank Civil and Marine a GTC-1600 teleboom crawler. This 160-ton crane features a 200.1-foot boom, a Cummins engine and tracks can operate at multiple widths.
n A new risk reduction strategy to improve crane safety in British Columbia, Canada, has been launched by WorkSafeBC. A group of 130 crane industry stakeholders assembled to identify and address crane safety issues, resulting in recommendations for reducing risk and improving the safety of crane operations.
A Link-Belt 120|RT is being used to lift and position tanks, steel framework and ductwork on a renewable gas pipeline project.
120|RT excels on pipeline job in KY
Pennsylvania-based McAdoo’s Towing & Crane Service chose a Link-Belt 120|RT rough terrain crane for a job to help connect a landfill site to a renewable natural gas pipeline in London, Kentucky.
Tadano telecrawler tackles state trail project
Waukesha, WI-based Zenith Tech helped repair a bridge along the 52-mile Glacial Drumlin State Trail that runs between Milwaukee and Madison, Wisconsin.
“These types of jobs are especially rewarding because so many people use the trail for recreational purposes,” said Steve Firari, construction manager. “It involved rehabbing a pedestrian/bike bridge that was built on an old railroad bed across Rock Lake near Lake Mills. The piers were failing, so we essentially built new ones to make it more sound and safer.”
The company needed a crane that was large enough to do the work, but still small enough to access the jobsite due to the size of the trail. Zenith Tech worked closely with Reynolds Equipment’s Darren Reddekopp to rent a 200-ton-capacity telescopic boom crawler crane that features an adjustable track width (approximately 15 feet to 24 feet) in both symmetrical and asymmetrical configurations, so it can be used for applications with limited space.
“[The crane] had to have the ability to walk the approximately quarter mile on the path and stay out of the tree canopy,” added Firari. “Once at the site, it had to be able to sit in one spot and have enough reach, capacity and power to pick up the beams, then swing the beams at about a 144-foot radius and drive them into the ground."
Because of the crane’s low ground pressure, it was an ideal choice for working on sensitive sites like the Glacial Drumlin State Trail.
The 120-ton crane was put to work at the Laurel Ridge Landfill in Lily, KY, to help with construction of the gascapture project. The project will use 16,000-pound tanks to store 1,800 cfm of gas collected from the landfill, to supply 450,000 MMBtu of natural gas annually to its customers.
McAdoo crane operator
Jordan Miller said the 120|RT was the perfect crane for the job site due to its capacity at radius and ability to operate comfortably in close quarters.
“The Link-Belt 120|RT is really well-suited for this small construction site because of its compact size and excellent maneuverability in tight spaces,” Miller added. n
Canadian challenge for Liebherr tower crane
Canadian crane rental company Bigfoot Crane Company used a Liebherr 81 K.1 fast erecting tower crane for a residential construction project in Nanaimo, Canda. The 81 K.1 has a maximum lifting capacity of 6.61 tons, a maximum radius of 157.5 feet and a jib head lifting capacity of 1.49 tons.
Construction of the Departure Bay apartment building presented Bigfoot Crane and the contractor, Westurban Developments, with several challenges, largely due to the complex nature of the structure and the conditions on site. Pre-planning and precise implementation were crucial for the crane’s successful operation, a spokesperson for the project said.
The Liebherr 81 K.1 was lifted over the building.
The site’s access road was used for assembling the fast-erecting crane. But disassembling the 81 K.1 proved to be a tougher challenge.
“The completed building was in the way as far as normal dismantling was concerned,” said Cale Anderson, chief operating officer, Bigfoot Crane. “This meant the fasterecting crane had to be lifted over the newly constructed building. A large Liebherr mobile crane was used to safely set the 81 K.1 down on the other side of the building.” n
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Mobile and crawler cranes
Steven Todd discusses the work of ProMiles Software and how much the specialized transportation sector impacts his life.
D.Ann Shiffler reports.
Steven Todd is one of the most well-known names in the specialized transportation sector in the United States. From the get-go, he said this industry has intrigued him and kept him engaged.
Todd began his transportation career as a self-employed consultant in both the civil engineering and public transportation industry, specializing in funding and organizing municipal infrastructure and public transportation initiatives throughout Illinois. This led to a career with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) managing oversize/overweight (OS/OW) permits, fixed weigh stations and public transportation. IDOT earned a strong reputation amongst specialized carriers for achieving permit policy harmonized successes that carried over to other midwestern states, Todd said.
Off to D.C.
In 2012, he said he “took a deep breath” and left central Illinois to take a position with the Specialized Carriers & Rigging Association in Washington, D.C. For the next eight years, he served the global trade association as vice
From ‘day
president of transportation, advocating for safe, efficient and harmonized regulatory policies. He helped direct SC&RA’s successful approval from the FMCSA for an exemption for specialized transportation for the Hours of Service 30-Minute Mandatory Break. This exemption is still in use by the industry today.
Todd also helped lead SC&RA’s Uniform Permit Transport 2021 (UPT21) initiative resulting in an increase from 12 to 35 states employing fully automated permit systems. He co-authored two U.S. Federal Highway Authority (FHWA) Best Practice Reports: Automated Permitting of Oversize/Overweight Vehicles and Law Enforcement and Pilot Escorts, which also included a national training curriculum.
He helped SC&RA produce three specialized transportation training videos that are widely used today on such topics as driving, load securement and preventing bridge hits. He served on several USDOT and AASHTO/SCOHT working groups and committees.
arm of the company to both state and federal governments, specialized carriers, permit services and the like related primarily to OS/OW permitting. And lastly, to establish a partnership with HyPoint Solutions to deliver solutions to government agencies for detecting and preventing bridge hits.”
Todd said a number of carriers and permit services are now under contract and in early stages of utilizing ProMiles suite of products. He and Dan Wells are providing consulting services for two federal projects involving the sharing of permitting and related data between states and an initiative to improve the efficient movement of OS/OW loads during times of declared emergencies.
“We’re also providing permitting consultant services for specialized carriers and permit services designed for both initial training and ongoing training to set up our clients for more efficient permitting processes and improve their process for communication with states,” he said.
Todd transitioned over to the private sector with ProMiles about three years ago.
“I was recruited to lead the efforts on three initiatives,” he explained.
“The first is to parlay ProMiles success in OS/OW permitting software utilized by state governments to the private industry. Secondly, to create and grow the consulting
Cyber security concerns
Most recently, ProMiles has begun a cyber division that specializes in providing the trucking industry much needed security, which is fast becoming the greatest concern in the transportation industry, Todd said.
“The market is looking for increased connectivity,” he said. “More vehicles and systems are connected to the internet, increasing cyber attack vulnerability. According to Gartner, the number of connected IoT devices in the transportation sector is expected
From the owners to the mid-managers to the drivers and dispatchers, I’ve found folks in this industry to be tremendously genuine and hard working.
STEVEN TODD, Executive Vice President, Permitting ProMiles Software
one’
to reach 25 billion by 2025. Transportation systems handle a lot of sensitive data that needs protection from hackers. The Ponemon Institute reports that 63 percent of transportation companies experienced a data breach involving customer or operational data in the past year.”
Operational disruption is also a big concern, Todd said.
ProMiles Software Development Corporation (PSDC), based in Bridge City, TX, was formerly a part of Road Legal. In the early 1980s, the PSDC team saw a need to take the hassle out of managing many facets of a trucking company. The ProMiles XF Mileage Guide, ProMiles Fuel Tax, ProMiles Fuel Management, TruckMiles and a comprehensive suite of online applications were designed by a unique combination of professional programmers, tax auditors, ICC practitioners and truck drivers.
The PSDC team developed a fast, easy-to-use and cost-effective mileage program for computer use which renders interstate and intrastate mileages.
Now with Canadian and Mexican miles, ProMiles Mileage Guide offers the largest State/DOT approved highway database in the industry, according to the company. Founders Tony Stroncheck (top left) and Tim Pilcher are still owners and co-presidents of ProMiles Software.
“ProMiles offers industry a free, one-hour Cyber Health Checkup,” he said. “Think of it as a quick health check for your organization’s digital world. We’ll discuss your cybersecurity practices and any challenges you face and explore ways to beef up your digital defense. You will get personalized advice from our cyber pros. Plus, it’s a great chance to see if there are any quick wins or enhancements you can make without any commitment.”
Industry mentors
Todd counts as his mentors Joe Hill, David Johnson and Geno Koehler at IDOT; Joel Dandrea and Beth O’Quinn at SC&RA; the late Jay Folladori, Ray Morgan and Pete Trimble from industry, and Tony Stroncheck, Tim Pilcher, Bob Terneus and Dan Wells at ProMiles.
I’ve known Todd since he took on the role at SC&RA in 2012, and he’s always been professional and enthusiastic. A leading voice for the specialized transportation sector, Todd is respected for his knowledge, commitment and passion. He has helped guide many young transportation professionals into leadership roles with their companies and as industry volunteers. Above all, Todd is known as a genuinely good guy. We spoke with him about his current role, harmonization and generally all things specialized transportation.
WHAT DOES PROMILES BRING TO THE SPECIALIZED TRANSPORTATION
INDUSTRY
IN TERMS OF PERMITTING AND OVERSIZED/ OVERWEIGHT LOADS?
Employees with decades of experience have afforded the company the opportunity to gain a clear understanding of issues facing the industry. Combine
Since its inception, the founders have positioned ProMiles as the industry’s regulatory compliance technology leader, advancing harmonization, roadway safety, infrastructure integrity and efficiencies, benefiting all industry stakeholders.
ProMiles has designed and implemented OS/OW permitting and routing custom technology for more than 20 states, increasing the average self-issue rate for these states to 73 percent, with a volume of over 3.2 million permits issued nationwide in 2023.
that with a determination to serve their state partners and industry representatives in doing what ProMiles can to allow the industry to be more efficient and safer. Compliance is key to safe operations and we believe that technology is one of the keys to encouraging compliance. By 2025, 60 percent of the country’s state OS/OW permits will be issued through ProMiles software.
WHAT ARE PROMILES SOFTWARE’S MAIN PRODUCTS?
Permit Manager automates the multistate permitting process to increase safety, accuracy and decrease turnaround time. Route Manager is a first-of-itskind national interactive map including vertical clearances, temporary/permanent restrictions, bridge/road weight postings, etc. Custom Restriction Manager allows users to add their own unique restrictions on top of state restrictions. Quote Manager offers precise quoting of OS/OW loads including permit fees, pilot triggers and more. The Permit Manager App converts OS/OW routing to audible turn-by-turn directions. The Route Survey App conducts over-the-road survey without typing/taking notes via mobile app followed by an efficient printout of complete survey post trip.
EARLIER THIS YEAR, AASHTO AND PROMILES CREATED A PARTNERSHIP ALLIANCE. CAN YOU EXPLAIN THIS DEVELOPMENT?
AASHTOWare is a unique and powerful enterprise software suite designed by transportation professionals for transportation professionals. No other
software matches its effectiveness for transportation project design and management.
Pooling knowledge and resources enable costs to be distributed across many users, so agencies procuring AASHTOWare realize vast cost savings and receive quality software that matches precise needs. AASHTOWare is built to help state entities comply with Federal Highway Administration regulations, AASHTO standards and industry best practices, but it easily accommodates state-to-state differences. Easy to download, customize and deploy, AASHTOWare efficiently monitors costs, schedules, inventories, inspections, performance, displacements and safety.
WHAT DOES THIS DEVELOPMENT BRING TO THE SPECIALIZED TRANSPORTATION SECTOR?
Consistent, high-quality technology making it possible to acquire OS/OW permits in a manner which saves time and meets the requirements of state agencies while improving the user experience of the industry.
YOU HAVE BEEN IN THE TRANSPORTATION SECTOR FOR A LONG TIME. WHAT KEEPS YOU ENGAGED?
Literally from day one, I fell in love with both the people and the equipment/processes in the specialized transportation industry. From the owners to the mid-managers to the drivers and dispatchers, I’ve found folks in this industry to be tremendously genuine and hard working. And the challenges especially with my passion – automated
OS/OW permitting. It started when I was hired at the Illinois Department of Transportation and directed to implement such a system. Taking that successful experience to SC&RA, it was a natural progression to work to convince both government and industry of what many have heard me characterize this initiative many times – a win/win/win for industry, government, taxpayers, infrastructure and most importantly improving safety of our nations roadways for all motorists.
THE INDUSTRY HAS BEEN ADVOCATING FOR HARMONIZATION FOR DECADES. WHERE DO YOU SEE HARMONIZATION CURRENTLY AND THE PROGRESS MADE?
It’s understandable when I hear some folks grouse about the pace of harmonization over the past couple decades. Unfortunately, the wheels grind slowly in government, especially when coordinating uniformity among 50 states. As the late SC&RA Vice President Doug Ball said, “It’s worse than herding cats uphill.”
But honestly, tremendous progress has occurred in not only the automated permitting processes, but right on down
the line in harmonization of pilot and police escort requirements, valid days of permits from state to state, flag and sign requirements, reciprocity between state pilot certification programs and on and on.
HONESTLY SPEAKING, CAN HARMONIZATION EVER BE FULLY ACHIEVED IN THE UNITED STATES?
Yes (and no). Example, when we first began advocating for automated state permitting systems, there were several critics and cynics both within government and industry (surprisingly). Change is hard for some, yet here we are in 2024 with just two states left to implement such systems.
But with any achieved goal in harmonization comes a second layer of new goals. Given the increased levels of detail states now possess, a logical, next step may entail more states following the lead of a few states that have increased the dimension and weight thresholds by which they Auto Issue permits. If done safely, which I’m confident states will ensure, this could certainly lead to even greater efficiencies realized by industry.
WHAT IS YOUR BUSINESS PHILOSOPHY?
Since rededicating my life to Jesus Christ, it’s been a never-ending attempt to follow His command in Luke 6:31, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”
YOU COVER A LOT OF BASES IN THE TRANSPORTATION INDUSTRY. WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU ARE NOT WORKING?
Traveling with my beautiful wife Denise and spending quality time with my grown children. I also enjoy volunteering in my church and community, tennis and golf.
But perhaps my greatest passion, for the past five years Dan Wells, Ray Morgan, John Vaughn, Bryce Baker, myself and many others conduct a weekly industry roundtable group sharing best practices usually involving OS/OW permitting in some manner, followed by a 30-minute informal Bible Study which we typically related God’s word to our work and personal lives.
All total, there are about 60 of us in the group. ‘Ain’t none of us saints, we’re far from perfect, but we take comfort knowing we’re saved by God’s grace and mercy.’
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THE NEW AC 5.250-2
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120-Ton| 110 mt Rough Terrain Crane
FLAT DECK
✓ Anti-skid paint on allowable walking surfaces
✓ No trip points
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V-CALC
✓ Calculate outrigger positioning
✓ Real-time 360°charts
✓ Live preview mode
✓ Incorporated swing arrest
SMARTFly
✓ One person operation
✓ Guided, sequential fly erection
✓ Fly assist and boom hoist cylinder control from the ground
✓ Minimal ladder climbs
✓ Swing around at 0°
SITE VISION
✓ Heated back-up, winch and right-side cameras with night vision
✓ LED working lights
✓ Outrigger lights
EASY ACCESS
✓ 6 Points of Access
✓ Large grab handles and steps
✓ Working upper platform with guardrails
Fit to be tied
Five best practices for load securement.
Load securement is a crucial part of transporting cargo and requires the appropriate rigging products and best practices for the job. Without these, you risk losing or damaging the materials you’re transporting, causing accidents, injury, or even loss of life. Following are some of the commonly overlooked steps when securing a load for transport and how you can use them to keep your cargo secure and everyone involved safe.
1. USE THE CORRECT EQUIPMENT FOR THE TIE-DOWN APPLICATION. When using a tie-down to secure your cargo, you will need the correct materials. A tie-down is an assembly of devices that uses one or more anchor points and restricts cargo movement. Several different materials can be used to tie-down a load for transport. They include:
■ chain
■ synthetic webbing
■ wire rope
■ steel strapping
Several other components can be used as tie-downs in load securement:
■ clamps
■ hooks
■ winches
■ ratchets
While the right equipment is dependent on the type of cargo, you should only use what is allowed in the North American Cargo Securement Standard. Using products that aren’t meant for tie-down applications is unsafe and must be avoided at all costs.
Some common materials and devices misapplied for load securement are:
■ grade 43 chain
■ cheater bars
■ bungee cords
■ homemade tie-downs
■ edge protection substitutes
Grade 70 chain is easily identifiable with its gold-colored finish and is also
A tie-down is an assembly of devices that uses one or more anchor points and restricts cargo movement.
The most important factor is abiding by the load securement standards of the North American Cargo Securement Standard and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
known as “transport chain.” Because it’s heat-treated, it’s more resistant to wear and abrasion than Grade 43 chain, making it more suitable for transport.
Grade 70 chain should never be used for overhead lifting applications – use only
Grade 80, Grade 100 or Grade 120 chain designed specifically for lifting and rigging applications. Also, your chain must be tightened to the load for transport based on manufacturer or industry standards. Cheater bars used for added leverage on a snap binder when tightening chain can be extremely dangerous. Workers may think it’s a safe and convenient practice, but they’re actually putting themselves at risk. If their hands were to slip from the cheater bar when engaging or disengaging the snap binder, the pressure released from the snap binder could send the bar flying back into their face, causing serious injury. Bungee cords are unreliable in tie-down situations. Most do not come with a load rating and are less durable than other products. Because of their stretch factor, a bungee cord also becomes a dangerous projectile when accidentally unhooked.
Homemade tie-downs are a non-starter
as they are likely not made from the proper materials and have no indicated Working Load Limit (WLL), which is the maximum load that device can handle during use. This means that a worker will have no way of knowing if the tie-down can handle the weight of the cargo to keep it secure.
Proper edge protection is important in tie-down situations when the objects being secured have sharp edges, corners, and protrusions. Items like leather gloves, towels, or rubber pads will not provide sufficient protection for your tiedowns. Always use the correct tie-down protection from a manufacturer.
2. ROUTINELY INSPECT YOUR EQUIPMENT AND MAKE SURE IT’S IN THE PROPER WORKING CONDITION. If you are using the correct equipment to tie-down a load but it has visual indicators of wear and tear, you’re also running a huge safety risk. Some examples of criteria that warrants a product being taken out of service include:
■ Cuts, tears, UV degradation, chemical exposure on synthetic tie-downs
■ Missing or illegible identification/tags
on rigging equipment
■ Stretched or bent links on chain
■ Broken wires, corrosion, and deformation to wire rope
■ Hooks with missing or broken latches (when applicable)
■ Rigging hardware that’s bent, stretched, broken or chopped in half
■ Items that have been “repaired” or modified through welding
■ Shackles using the wrong size or improperly rated pins
■ Hoist ring bolts that are locked up or “frozen” due to an overload If your rigging materials fall under any of these categories, it’s time to stop using them immediately and replace them with new items. Continued use of damaged or worn-out hardware is a dangerous and avoidable liability. During transport, cargo and restraint devices should be inspected within the first 50 miles of the trip. After the first inspection, re-examine securement at regular intervals, including three hours, 150 miles and a new driver.
3. USE THE APPROPRIATE NUMBER OF TIEDOWNS FOR THE LOAD. The number of tiedowns needed depends on the size, shape and weight of the cargo you’re securing to the vehicle. Ignoring these factors and inadequately tying down can allow dangerous shifting of the load during transport.
Basic load securement rules require the aggregate working load limit to be equal to or greater than half the cargo weight. The Aggregate Working Load Limit, or AWLL, is the combined working load limit of all of the tie-downs and other restraint devices that are used to secure a particular load.
For example, to secure a 20,000-pound load for transport, the aggregate working load limit of the tie-downs and other securement devices should be at least 10,000 pounds. If blocking or friction mats are used, the aggregate should also include those components.
The required number of tie-downs also depends on the cargo’s length. The basic rule is that if forward restraint is present, there should be one tie-down for every 10 feet of cargo length. If forward restraint is not present, an additional tie-down is required.
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, the bare minimum for a general freight load that has a length
The Aggregate Working Load Limit, or AWLL, is the combined working load limit of all of the tie-downs and other restraint devices that are used to secure a particular load.
of 5 feet and weighs 1,100 pounds is one tie-down. Then, a load measuring 10 feet in length and less than 10,000 pounds requires a minimum of two tie-downs. Loads heavier than 10,000 pounds require four tie-downs, and one additional tiedown per 10 feet of load length.
All of these requirements can be found in US DOT FMCSA Part 393 Subpart I.
4. PROVIDE LOAD SECUREMENT TRAINING FOR YOUR OPERATORS AND END-USERS. Without any training in load securement, workers are susceptible to all the aforementioned risks. Equipping them with the right knowledge, standards, and hands-on experience is key for the safe transportation of cargo.
The most important factor is abiding by the load securement standards of the North American Cargo Securement Standard and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Training should occur with any operator prior to performing the load securement, to ensure proper selection, inspection, and use of the equipment.
While many people can pass an online quiz or course, operators need to apply those lessons in real-world settings. Supervisors are required to observe operators, and utilize ride-alongs to confirm they are:
■ Doing their pre-use inspection
■ Securing their loads and making sure they are taut
■ Making the requisite stops (miles/
The number of tie-downs needed depends on the size, shape and weight of the cargo you are securing to the vehicle.
minutes) to reassess the loads. During the assessments, the focus is on looking at each of the tie-downs to make sure they’re secure.
5. FOLLOW ALL APPLICABLE SAFETY GUIDELINES. All workers involved in a tie-down operation for transport need to follow safety protocol no matter their years of experience or familiarity with the task at hand.
Before loading cargo, you need to make sure all personnel are:
1 Wearing or using the proper personal protective equipment (PPE) for the job. If mobile equipment is being moved onto a trailer, this includes the operator wearing a seatbelt. If heavy equipment or machinery is being moved, make sure the equipment is clean and free of loose debris that could come loose during transport, including rocks, dirt and mud.
2 Know the laws and regulations for every jurisdiction through which you will travel.
3 Do not hurry and do not take shortcuts. Take the time to think about what you are doing and the consequences of taking shortcuts.
Wrapping it up
Load securement rules and regulations help ensure the safety of drivers and passengers on public roads and highways. If you are involved in the transport of large or heavy cargo on motor vehicles, make sure you are aware of all rules and regulations for the cargo being transported and the jurisdictions you will be driving through. Bypassing these endangers cargo, workers, and other drivers on the road. If you have any questions or concerns, it is recommended that you consult with a local expert to get the proper answer or solution to any issues.
ARTICLE PROVIDED BY MAZZELLA COMPANIES
STAFFORD TOWER CRANES
Eight months into 2024, our TOWERCRANE50 shows a slight retraction from 2023. While some companies did add tower cranes to their fleets, most stayed the same or even sold off a few units. It’s apparent that companies have right-sized their fleets to meet market demands. While all the indexes are down, the drops are minimal. The total fleet index in 2023 was 2,457, dropping to 2,447 units this year. Branches declined by only two locations, dropping from 283 to 281. But employee counts declined more significantly, from 10,112 in 2023 to 9,440 in 2024.
The top four tower crane companies in North America have maintained their same ranking for yet another year. Morrow Equipment continues to anchor the Number One spot in 2024. Morrow has held the top spot since the inception of the TOWERCRANE50. Number 2, 3 and 4 are Maxim Crane Works, Uperio North America and ALL Family of Companies.
Morrow saw a decrease of 10 tower cranes in their fleet in comparison to 2023, while Maxim dropped from 337 to 309. ALL grew their fleet by six tower cranes, jumping from 104 to 110 units.
Ranking factors
Our TC50 index is a reliable indicator of the market, and the best description for the current market is flat. In June 2024 at the Tower Crane North America event in Nashville, Tennessee, ALL Tower Crane’s Sam Moyer described the market as “driving with the parking break on.” The market for tower cranes is active but cautious. City skylines across North America are still punctuated with tower cranes. The lull in the market has not stopped major tower crane manufacturers from
TOWER CRANES
2,447 BRANCHES
281 EMPLOYEES
9,440
A slight retraction has occurred in the market. Hannah Sundermeyer reports.
towering
Finnco’s Wolff 6031.12 works at a jobsite in San Francisco.
ACTTOWERCRANE50
producing new models. Jaso, Potain, Liebherr, Wolffkran and Terex have rolled out new models over the past year.
Stafford Tower Crane, formerly Stafford Soima, saw a slight jump in the rankings as the company swapped places with Bigge Crane and Rigging for the fifth-place spot on the list.
One of the more significant ranking change-ups saw Wolffkran climb (quite literally) from Number 22 to Number
15, with a fleet size of 45 tower cranes. The company reported a fleet of 34 in 2023. Celebrating its 170th anniversary this year, Wolffkran moved its North American headquarters to Houston in 2023, a move that makes the company closer to the markets it serves.
Status quo
While most companies on the ACTTOWERCRANE50 moved up or down the list, 20
maintained their ranking from 2023. Bigfoot Crane Company and J.F. Lomma dropped from 18th to 23rd and 19th to 24th, respectively.
While there were no newcomers to the list this year, the five newcomers added to the ACTTOWERCRANE50 in 2023 have secured their spots as repeat participants in 2024. This includes Morwest Crane & Services, Rapicon Tower Cranes West, Mid-Continent Crane, Finnco Services and Liberty
SENIOR CONTACT
Peter Juhren, President and COO
Paul McDonnell, CEO www.maximcrane.com
Michael L. Liptak,
Greg Linaman, CEO
Equipment, which previously operated as FUSE Equipment.
Methodology
The ACT team gathers data year-round for the ACTTOWERCRANE50. Starting in June of each year, we send out survey forms to companies that we know own tower cranes. Our database contains about 250 companies in the realm of tower crane operations.
Disclaimer
Like all of our lists, we work very hard to ensure the accuracy of the information submitted to us. ACT and its editors are not responsible for inaccuracies or errors in these lists. We hope to continually grow this list. If your company has one or several tower cranes, it you should be on this list. To receive a 2025 survey form, please email D.Ann Shiffler at d.ann.shiffler@khl.com or Hannah Sundermeyer at hannah.sundermeyer@khl.com.
Critical tools
The rough terrain crane is a fleet favorite, and the market is perpetually solid.
D.Ann
Shiffler reports.
Simple to operate and easy to navigate around a jobsite, rough terrain cranes are critical tools on large and small projects. And despite inflation and higher interest rates posing challenges, the RT market remains strong, according to Brian Peretin, general manager of sales for mobile and crawler cranes for Liebherr USA.
“The large data center and chip facility projects seem to be absorbing a significant number of RTs,” said Beau Pocock, business development manager and product specialist for RTs, ATs
Tadano GR-1300XL-4
CAPACITY OF CRANE: 130 tons
MAIN BOOM LENGTH: 183.7 feet
FIXED JIB LENGTH: 33.8 feet/59.1 feet
MAX BOOM LENGTH WITH JIBS: 242.8 feet
COUNTERWEIGHT: 43,500 pounds
Liebherr
and telecrawlers for Liebherr USA. “Traditional users such as petrochemical projects and infrastructure jobsites continue to utilize a good deal of RTs.”
Pocock said the 100-ton class has seen the greatest growth in the past several years, and the demand for even larger RTs continues to expand.
“The 140-ton Liebherr LRT 1130 has performed very well in the U.S. market,” Pocock said. “Equipped with the largest capacity on two axles and 197 feet of main boom makes this crane a strong performer in the larger RT segment.”
But he also contends the 100 to 110-ton market remains solid. In terms of what customers are looking for, Pocock said it’s mainly reliability, ease of use and value.
“There is also an added emphasis on safety with RTs,” he said. “Liebherr machines come with standard options, including an anemometer and navigation light, step ladder for maintenance, camera system, maintenance tools and safety markers. The cab also offers first-rate comfort and visibility with all the creature comforts an operator could want.”
Most manufacturers offer these same
features. The RT market has fluctuated with the health of the oil and gas industry, Pocock said.
“However, with so many large manufacturing facilities being built, such as chip plants or data storage centers, the need for 100-plus ton RTs remains steady,” he said. “And with the scope of large projects projected in the future, we feel the RT market will continue to grow at a steady pace.”
In terms of fleet refreshment, Peretin said that most customers are sticking to their general refresh timeline. If anything, they may replace machines sooner.
“RTs serve multiple needs on almost every jobsite,” Pocock said. “They are used in refineries, road and bridge
Link-Belt
120|RT
CAPACITY OF CRANE: 120 tons
MAIN BOOM LENGTH: 164.1 feet
OFFSETTABLE FLY: Two-piece 35-foot to 58-foot
COUNTERWEIGHT: 28,000 pounds
construction, wind, oil and gas, steel erection and more. Given their flexibility, it is probably easier to list the jobsites that you wouldn’t find an RT crane working.”
Steady growth
Link-Belt’s Kelly Fiechter said RTs fit the needs of all sorts of jobs, and the RT market has been growing steadily, year over year, since the end of 2020.
“The RT market is good across North America, but the Gulf Coast region is consistently the strongest region for RTs,” Fiechter said. “The most popular tonnage class continues to be the 100-ton class for RTs. We think our 100-ton 100|RT offers the right mix of capacity, boom length, ease of operation and transportability, which gives RT owners and users confidence in our cranes.”
Market numbers show demand for larger-capacity cranes is steadily increasing, Fiechter said.
“We see a consistent demand for our larger RT products like our 130-ton RTC80130 Series II and our 160-ton RTC80160 Series II, especially for utility and plant work.”
But there’s still a need for smaller capacity RTs, he said.
“We see solid demand for our 50 to 65-ton-capacity RTs,” Fiechter said. “The site requirements and workloads that might have once utilized 30- to 50-ton cranes five or six years ago now seem to require larger cranes. From a rental perspective, having a larger crane in the fleet that can do more work but still be transported in the same way as a smaller crane makes a lot of sense. For instance, our 75-ton 75|RT can be transported in one piece with full counterweight across most of North America.”
According to Fiechter, the lion’s share of RT units in the field today are bare rental units.
“The most common requirements we hear about from the rental houses that purchase these cranes and their customers are ease of operation, reliability and minimal maintenance,” he said. “Our cranes are built from the ground up with
these attributes in mind.”
Link-Belt contends the RT market will grow and then most likely level off by the end of the year. Fiechter said Link-Belt customers are refreshing their fleets more than in the past.
“With a focus to gain a competitive advantage, companies are regularly refreshing their fleets to be more efficient and reliable,” he said. “The pandemic may have disrupted the replacement cycle momentarily, but we expect to see a continued increase in fleet turns over the next few years.”
Large jobsites like refineries, mine sites and water treatment plants are ideal jobs for RTs.
“But also, RTs work well at small jobsites where space is limited, as they are nimble and highly maneuverable,” said Fiechter. “The very utilitarian nature of these cranes often makes them the most economical choice for a lot of different kinds of work.”
COUNTERWEIGHT: 15,200 pounds and up to 20,500 pounds
Strong utilization
John Bair, product manager for roughterrain cranes at Manitowoc, said that overall RT crane utilization is strong.
“Infrastructure and energy are key drivers for the RT market and we are seeing many large infrastructure projects that are just getting started and will demand a lot of RT cranes over the next several years,” he said. “In addition, we are seeing many fleets that are going through replenishment cycles where they are transitioning out of older equipment and looking to purchase new equipment to stay current with the latest technologies.”
Bair agreed that the 100-ton class continues to see the highest volumes in the RT market, largely due to their versatility on a wide variety of jobs.
“They have enough boom length and capacity to handle many applications, while still being compact and light enough for easy transport and then excellent maneuverability once on site,” he said. “The 100-ton RTs are easily bare rented due to their simple and quick, full power boom designs.”
Manitowoc is still seeing demand for RTs in the 30 to 65-ton capacity range as well.
“Perhaps not the volumes you saw 10 to 15 years ago due to the wide variety of equipment available that can handle similar jobs, but there is still a need for small RTs, and there are many customers looking to replace older equipment in this range,” Bair said. “But capacity and boom length requirements are always increasing as jobsites get more congested, lifts get further away and the loads continue to get heavier. All of which are substantiating the growth in the larger 120- to 165-ton class of RT cranes.”
This has been an area of focus for Manitowoc. The company recently launched the 120-ton GRT8120 and 165ton GRT9165, both of which have been successful cranes, he said.
“Customers love the long reach of the 197-foot boom on the GRT8120, but really appreciate the compact carrier that it sits on, which is similar to that of a typical 80- to 100-ton crane. Then when you jump to the GRT9165, you are going to another level of lifting capabilities and the applications are quite broad. We’ve seen the GRT9165 on wind farms, in refineries, doing dock work, working in residential construction, doing precast panel work, working in mines and the list goes on.”
In general, Bair said customers want versatility, reliability and ease of operation.
“For instance, a versatile crane would not only include strong load charts and a long boom, but also ease of transport and set up, as well as compact dimensions for excellent mobility on site,” he said. “With RTs, and really any product, reliability is huge, customers need to know when the crane shows up on the job, it can be counted on for the entirety of the project.”
He agreed that ease of operation is critical because RT cranes are typically bare rented.
FIXED JIB LENGTH: 26 feet/49 feet
BOOM LENGTH WITH JIB: 187 feet
COUNTERWEIGHT: 17,600 pounds
“Making the operating systems and RCLs simple and intuitive is very important,” he said. “These three points are critical anytime we are designing a new crane and are why we not only look to enter the market with best-in-class capacities and boom length, but also look to minimize our footprints while also integrating our intuitive Crane Control System (CCS) that allows for simple and fast operation, and also boasts advanced on-board diagnostic tools that ensures maximum uptime and ultimately an excellent ROI.”
Bair said that RTs are used for so many different types of applications, largely in part because they are predominately a rental crane. And also, the size of the crane is important.
“When you are talking about lower capacity RT’s, you are seeing them doing plant maintenance work, laydown yard work, as well as bridge and highway jobs,” Bair said. “As you start to get into the mid-range of RTs, you see them doing anything from steel erection to working in refineries, traversing and working in mines, not to mention utility and powerline infrastructure. The large class of cranes can be used on wind farms, refineries as well, large general construction projects and dock work. The list can go on.”
Infrastructure boom
The North American market has been fluid recently, being driven by infrastructure projects such as airport expansions, bridge and highway construction, wind maintenance assist cranes, data and server centers, semiconductor plants and projects related to oil and gas in addition to LNG,” said Dan Melnyk, director or North American
sales for Tadano. “The North American market has seen heavier demand for RTs in the 80-ton class and above. The larger RT market has been very strong and continues to be one of our top
While demand for smaller RTs has been steady, Melnyk said, it’s still much less than the 80-ton capacity and above market.
Tadano has long been synonymous with reliability and low operating costs, according to Lance Rydbom, director of product management and engineering.
“Our customers take full advantage of these characteristics and enjoy low cost of ownership and high residual values for their Tadano rough terrain cranes,” he said. “The market seemed to cool slightly in recent months, however, the information we are hearing from the market seems to indicate customers believe there will be an increase in activity from the end of the third quarter and into the fourth quarter.”
Fleet refreshment has been consistent.
“One change we have seen for some fleets is a request to refurbish their existing aged Tadano rough terrains and make them ‘new’ again,” Rydbom said. “The steel works are still in great shape, but they would like to modernize and refresh where it makes sense to extend the life of their Tadano cranes.” n
Aiding the operator
The market for crane cameras and operator aids that help crane operators perform their jobs more safely and efficiently is expanding rapidly, according to Peter Hird, commercial and business development lead for Straightpoint Blokcam – Kito Crosby.
Operator assist devices encompass a range of tools and technologies that include cameras for improved visibility, anti-collision crane devices to stop multiple cranes on the jobsite making contact with each other’s jibs, load stabilization systems to prevent load sway and improve load control, weight sensors/ scales for accurate load measurements and communication devices to ensure seamless coordination between the operator and ground crew.
“There is a significant demand for technologies that improve operational efficiency and enhance safety,” Hird said. Companies are increasingly adopting advanced solutions to stay competitive and compliant with safety regulations.
“Crane-owning companies are having to conform more regularly to the minimum standards stated in the general contractors’ crane contracts, which prioritize safety and reliability,” Hird said. “They look for devices that minimize the risk of accidents and enhance the operator’s control over the load.”
Safe and efficient
Productivity is also a key factor in the proliferation of these technologies and products. Companies are seeking solutions that reduce downtime and improve workflow efficiency. Risk management tools that provide real-time data and alerts are also highly valued, Hird said.
BlokAlert further assists by providing immediate hazard alerts to the lifting team, ground crew and other workers on the jobsite, Hird said.
“The market is growing more focused on safety than ever,” said Lance Burney, CEO of
Sigalarm. “Especially when working around highvoltage power lines. Our products involve a niche market that is focused on safety, productivity and risk management. Any device to help an operator complete tasks safer and more efficiently, and where human ability alone is not enough, are very important to today’s market.”
Operator aid technologies are at the forefront of crane operations.
D.Ann Shiffler reports.
Ingo Schiller is CEO of Netarus HoistCam, which produces advanced crane camera systems that mount directly on the hooks of cranes, offering real-time video feeds to operators.
“The market for hook, trolley and boommounted cameras and operator aids is growing rapidly, driven by increasing demands for safety and productivity in construction and material handling industries,” Schiller said. “Companies are recognizing the value of these technologies to provide visibility and awareness to reduce accidents, improve operational
efficiency and reduce risks.”
The market is characterized by a strong focus on innovation and the integration of advanced technologies like wireless communication and real-time data analytics, he added.
Removing uncertainty
As well, Schiller said companies look for devices that work for operators of all experience levels.
“Cameras as an operator aid remove uncertainty and allow operators to make real-time decisions based on first-hand access to information about the jobsite and lifting conditions,” he said. “Through visibility and awareness, risks can be mitigated and hazards avoided before they result in costly incidents.”
Communication between the crane operators, riggers, supervisors and other ground personnel on the jobsite are also critically important to a safe and productive project.
The Eartec Company has been supplying specialty headset systems facilitating industrial crew communication for more than six decades, according to John Hooper, president of Portaphone/Eartec.
“Full Duplex wireless is the new benchmark in crane communication,” Hooper said.
“Duplexity means that users can talk simultaneously without pushing buttons just like on a regular telephone, leaving hands free. This instantaneous two-way voice
AMCS produces the CAM 61 as well as the IoT Lifting mobile application.
contact is what provides the requisite crew coordination and safety.”
ACMS Technologies’ Fatima Vireeye said the market for the company’s products is dynamic and expanding, driven by stringent safety regulations, technological advancements and the need for enhanced productivity and efficiency on construction jobsites.
“There is a significant demand for high-quality, reliable and easy-to-install systems that provide real-time data and comprehensive monitoring solutions,” Vireeye said. “Crane-owning companies are increasingly investing in these technologies to improve safety, reduce operational risks and comply with industry standards.”
Managing risk
AMCS produces and distributes camera systems and operator aid devices specifically designed for cranes and other lifting machines.
Risk management is another priority of crane owning and operating companies. The goal is to minimize potential incidents and damage to equipment or infrastructure.
“Ease of use is important, with intuitive interfaces and easy integration with existing equipment and workflows being highly valued,” Vireeye said. “Also, reliability is critical, with durable and dependable devices that perform consistently under challenging conditions being a must-have for crane-owning companies.”
AMCS characterizes operator assist
devices as any technology that aids in the safe and efficient operation of cranes, and also includes telematics systems. AMCS also produces and provides the IoT Lifting mobile application. The application is credited with accurately and remotely monitoring the productivity of a construction site, knowing the activity of cranes every day, managing a fleet of AMCS Technologies products as well as carrying out remote diagnostics.
Load monitoring
Load monitoring is another important part of the operator’s realm. Vita Industrial creates intelligent lifting solutions that enhance load operations’ control, capability and safety, according to Casey Savlov. With global annual expenses related to workplace injuries reaching $167 billion, there’s a significant demand for solutions that enhance operational safety, Savlov explained.
“The market is highly attuned to the long-term cost benefits of investing in safety measures, recognizing that preventing accidents not only saves lives but also reduces downtime and minimizes liability costs,” Savlov said. “Crane-owning companies seek comprehensive solutions that simultaneously address multiple aspects of their operations. Safety is at the forefront of their concerns, given the staggering costs associated with workplace injuries and the potential for catastrophic accidents in crane operations. However, these companies recognize that safety cannot come at the expense of productivity.”
Savlov said the Vita Load Navigator mitigates risks and enhances operational efficiency, instilling a sense of confidence in an operator’s operations through features such as precise load control and remote operation.
Köhler Kran Service produces and distributes the HookEye wireless crane camera. Owner and President Jochen Köhler said cost-effective aids that significantly reduce the risk of accidents during crane operations are becoming critically important to every operation on the jobsite.
“Safety and reliability are paramount in our business,” Köhler said. “After all, it’s not just about high values, but also about human lives. However, the priceperformance ratio must be right. Our HookEye device reliably transmits over long distances of up to 200 to 300 meters for a reasonable price.”
ACT provides a roundup of various crane camera and operator aid devices submitted by the various companies that produce them.
Trolly camera
The AMCS CAM 61 was designed to enhance crane operations with its advanced features and versatility, the company said. Designed to adapt to both trolley and luffing tower cranes, the CAM 61 offers high quality performance regardless of the crane type, and it boasts superior image quality with highdefinition resolution and remarkable clarity, capturing every detail, AMCS said.
“The powerful zoom capability, featuring 36x optical and 16x digital zoom, coupled with a super sensitive sensor and day/ night vision ICR filter, makes it perfect for extreme low-light conditions,” AMCS said. “The CAM 61 includes Bluetooth connectivity and a remote connection to a screen, enabling real-time footage viewing on mobile devices. This feature allows for convenient and accessible surveillance from any location, facilitating effective site management and supervision.”
With an extended recording period of seven days or more to a network location and/or to an SD card, the CAM 61 ensures continuous and reliable surveillance throughout the construction process. It also offers an adjustable number of channels, providing maximum versatility and flexibility, according to AMCS.
Camera assistance
With radiomatic photon, HBC offers an intelligent live camera assistance, which
In 1954, James Mazzella formed a business by providing the most basic of lifting devices — wire rope slings that were braided by hand.
Today, Mazzella has expanded its product and service offerings to include:
> Overhead cranes – engineered systems and modernizations
> Custom below-the-hook lifting devices
> Slings, rigging hardware, and wire rope
> Crane and hoist inspections, service, and parts
> Engineered fall protection systems
> Wire rope socketing and spooling services
> Lifting and rigging training, crane operator training, and more
Thanks to all of our customers, team members, and partners who have allowed Mazzella to thrive for more than 70 years!
delivers live video images to the radio control’s color display, giving the operator is provided with a clear view of the machine and working environment, even in areas with limited views or blind spots.
The radiomatic photon feature offers numerous critical advantages. The operator has a better overview of complex environments from obstructed angles, allowing for the early detection of dangers. This possibility of early reaction makes work considerably safer. In difficult situations, for example when driving a machine through narrow passages or operating a machine in inaccessible areas, radiomatic photon enables precise control. For surveillance tasks and machine control, the operator can cut down walking distances as the camera provides up to date information. HBC extended its radiomatic photon portfolio with a switchable four-camera option, a mobile solution for portable cameras and a version with a pivoting, tilting and zoomable camera.
Hands-free communication
E-Pak full duplex radios combined with Lazer Pro headsets from the Eartec Company are a new concept in crane communications. The Eartec system utilizes lightweight headsets with Bluetooth connectivity eliminating wires along and bone conduction technology so that messages are received by vibration through the skin.
Eartec said these wireless intercoms are a breakthrough because they provide simultaneous talk, hands-free communication leaving ears uncovered so
The semi-autonomous nature of the VLN enhances safety by reducing human error, a common factor in cranerelated incidents, according to Vita
that crews can monitor the surrounding environment including the sound of machinery engines.
E-PAK transceivers weigh only 2.5 ounces and can be tucked inside a pocket or clipped to clothing. Hard hat compatible Lazer Pro headsets include a discreet back band and two bone conducting disks that sit comfortably on the temple.
Frequency hopping is the specialty wireless protocol utilized by all E-PAK transceivers to evade interference. Each complete system utilizes a unique hopping sequence and only transmits on channels that are free of RF clutter. Frequency hopping also ensures that E-PAK systems will not
Eartec’s E-PAK headsets are IP 65 certified, dustproof and waterproof.
interfere with other wireless equipment. Totally portable and FCC approved for mobile crews and remote jobsites, a complete E-PAK wireless intercom will link up to 9 users within a 400-yard range enhancing coordination, productivity and safety.
Elevating operations
HoistCam improves crane lifting operations and material handling with its rapid-deploy wireless camera system, providing crane operators with critical visibility. It reduces risk and promotes efficiency by eliminating blind spots and increasing jobsite awareness, the company
The HoistCam systems provide the operator with consistent visibility of the crane’s hook and load during all phases of operations. The wireless camera can be attached securely in seconds using magnets and safety lanyards. Users can install up to eight cameras on a single crane, ensuring complete coverage from hook block to boom tip.
HoistCam systems operate on 12VDC lithium-ion batteries or wired power for extended shifts. They can be hardwired into the crane’s power system, with 24VDC models available. Portable systems can be installed by operators in minutes.
The HoistCam Director Suite enables centralized monitoring, including remote monitoring, recording and analytics for operators and site supervisors.
Load stabilization
phases of operations.
The Vita Load Navigator (VLN) load
The HoistCam wireless camera systems provide the operator with consistent visibility of the crane’s hook and load during all
Inclinata.
stabilization technology is a trusted below-the-hook tool in the industrial construction market, according to the company. The VLN is a semi-autonomous, propulsion-driven device that users can control remotely, providing a dynamic and precise approach to lifting and moving loads. At its core, the VLN’s ability to measure over 1,000 data points per second provides real-time monitoring and adjustment of load movement, reducing the risk of accidents caused by unexpected shifts, spins or rotations. This precision control is paramount in preventing collisions, dropped loads and other hazardous situations.
Remote operation capability is another key safety aspect, allowing operators to control the device from up to 600 feet away. This feature eliminates the need for taglines while facilitating communication between crane operators and ground crews, removing personnel from highrisk areas near the load, and dramatically decreasing the potential for crush injuries or other accidents involving ground workers.
Enhancing communication
The Kito Crosby BlokCam X3L Crane Camera System enhances communication between crane operators and ground rigging crews/lift directors. The system provides a live video feed from the crane hook, delivering a clear view of the load
The BlokCam X3L has an integrated one-way communication microphone that improves situational awarnesss.
error. The auto lens light adjustment ensures optimal image clarity in varying light conditions, from bright sunlight to low light, maintaining a clear view at all times.
“The high-definition camera delivers sharp and detailed images, even in challenging environments,” the company said. “The robust wireless connection ensures a stable video and audio feed, providing uninterrupted communication. The system’s plug-and-play design requires no crane modifications, minimizing downtime and allowing quick transfers between different cranes.”
Eye of the operator
HookCam is a three-part, wireless, safety camera system designed for cranes. It is closed-circuit, so no cell and no cloud are required, and it can be configured on either the hook, trolley or boom tip, the company said.
and its surroundings. A standout feature of the BlokCam X3L is its integrated one-way communication microphone. This allows operators to hear real-time audio during lifting operations, significantly improving situational awareness, the company said.
The BlokCam X3L also features operational-free design and auto lens light adjustment. This means the system requires no manual operation, simplifying use and reducing the potential for human
“The operator is our customer,” said HookCam Chief Technical Officer David Catanzaro. “If we satisfy the needs of the operator, we increase safety, communication and productivity. We say designed for safety, paid for with productivity and backed with quality service. HookCam makes the jobsite safer.”
Catanzaro said that lately customers have been asking for extras, and HookCam is making them available.
“We can add remote viewing, daily pick-activity logs, dual cameras or video recall,” he said. “We use quality rareearth neodymium, switchable, on/off magnets for easy, sure mounting and rugged, .25-inch 6030 aluminum housing for our equipment. We only need 45 square inches on the hook where our space saving, footprint is an industry leading 9 by 5 inches or 45 square inches.”
HookCam’s battery chemistry is the safest in the industry, and customer signal strength is strong, the company said. The ability to analyze and jump frequencies allows HookCam to adjust to environmental conditions. Combined, this design allows a simple install and ease of use.
The HookCam can be configured on the hook, trolly or boom tip of a crane.
moment plus
The Cranesmart LMI5 is the newest vintage of Load Moment Indication (LMI) technology that displays the crane position, capacity and load on each hook at all times during operation, according to the company.
The LMI5 system gives both audible and visual warning in overload or 2-block conditions and allows users to customize lockouts for different cranes. The LMI5 system consists of a wireless touchscreen receiver and control module that receives sensor transmissions from your crane and displays them clearly for the operator.
“Compatible with any type of crane, pipelayer or material handling equipment,
Cranesmart’sLMI5 is the newest vintage of Load Moment Indication technology.
the LMI5 system is built for industry and the harsh weather conditions and rugged environments that it operates in,” said Cranesmart’s Jeremy Holt. Cranesmart systems are designed to be installed by customers themselves in quick timeframes, with no technician required, Holt said.
Powerline safety
The SIG-LITE is a Powerline Warning Device (PWD) and risk management tool from Sigalarm. The product is built on 50 years of reliability and dependability, according to Lance Burney, CEO of Sigalarm.
Designed for rugged use in construction, mining, telecommunications and aerial lift rental markets worldwide, several new developments have been advancing the PWD market, including the EU Regulation 2023/1230 of the European Parliament and of the Council. The new
regulation 3.5.4. says “risk of contact with live overhead power lines depending on their height, mobile machinery or related products shall, where relevant, be designed, constructed and equipped, so as to prevent the risk of contact with an energized overhead power line or the risk of creating an electric arc between any part of the machinery or an operator driving the machinery and an energized overhead powerline.”
Distribution power lines are generally classified between 7.2 kV and 13.5kV, and are estimated to account for more than 96 percent of all overhead HV powerlines in the United States. The SIG-LITE unit will automatically default itself to warn of close proximity to overhead distribution power lines. If work is required around higher voltage transmission lines, the device can be switched to the alternate transmission setting precalibrated for higher voltages, according to Sigalarm. n
Sigalarm Powerline Warning Devices are focused on safety, productivity and risk management.
Upgraded Cab
•10 inch high-definition machine display.
•Improved front visibility
•Tilting Steering wheel
72’ 6” 4-Section Telescopic Boom
•High strength extend-retract wire ropes
•Improved design for maintenance allows removal of telescope cylinder without boom section disassembly
4-MODE STEERING
•Superior maneuverability
•Bi-directional tires
•12’ outside wheel turning radius
Broderson Cranes are world-renowned for their reliability and ease of operation. The cab down, RT400-B Rough Terrain model delivers higher pick capability, longer reach, greater hydraulic output and precise operator control – all in a package that provides reliable day-in, day-out service.
Tower crane service providers are critical players in the tower crane sector.
D.Ann Shiffler reports.
Services niche
Tower crane services is a specialty sector of the crane market that requires expert knowledge, specific know-how and up-to-date training. It has become a competitive niche market in North America.
“The tower crane market in the Pacific Northwest has always been a thriving and ever-growing market,” said John Anderson, president of NessCampbell Crane + Rigging, based in Hillsboro, OR. NessCampbell and other companies in this sector provide a range of services –including erection, climbing and dismantle services. Turnkey packages include
A range of cranes can be used to erect, climb and dismantle tower cranes, typically anything from a 135- to 600-ton all-terrain crane to 40- to 50-ton assist cranes.
Turnkey tower crane services packages include erection, operator, climbing, monthly and yearly maintenance, recertification and dismantle.
erection, operator, climbing, monthly and yearly maintenance, recertification and dismantle. Companies like NessCampbell can also provide any necessary rigging, lights, radios and the like to fully meet the needs of tower crane providers.
“Tower cranes are generally the ‘thermometer’ of the construction industry,” said Selwyn Rabbits of Mr. Crane, based in Orange, CA. “The more tower cranes in the air, the healthier the construction environment. Tower cranes provide a solid and reliable revenue stream as the projects normally run for 12 months or more. Do it well, and good relationships are developed. It complements our mobile/ crawler crane operations well, smoothing out the work.”
In addition to turnkey packages, other services involve assisting the client with lifting requirements, identifying suitable cranes and their location, providing crane crews and supervising their operations, assisting the client with safety regimes, crane maintenance and providing advice
on special lift requirements.
A range of cranes can be used to erect, climb and dismantle tower cranes.
“Typically, anything from our 135-ton Liebherr AT for the smaller tower crane projects, up to our 600-ton Liebherr AT with mega-wing and luffing jib for the taller and more complex projects,” said Anderson.
Support player
“We generally use 200-ton or larger mobile cranes to erect and dismantle the tower cranes, although, on occasion, we have used 300-ton plus crawler cranes,” said Rabbits. “We generally use a 40- to 50-ton mobile crane to assist.”
How do companies get into this sector of the crane business?
“For years all we did was provide just the mobile crane to support this type of work,” said Anderson. “As our company grew, our customers were looking for better options – a company that could provide these services under one roof. So we organized and hired the appropriate personnel and started down the path of providing fullservice tower crane service packages.”
The more tower cranes in the air, the healthier the construction environment.
In 2003, Mr. Crane saw an opening in the market to provide complete tower crane packages, Rabbits said.
“This was part of our move to expand our revenue base and reduce our reliance on tilt-panel work,” he said. “A project manager of ours had previous experience with tower cranes and was able to help us break into the market.”
This work requires specialized knowledge and skill, Anderson said.
“We employ the use of our highly trained union Iron Workers and Union Operating Engineers to perform all aspects of tower
crane work,” said Anderson. “With the support of our top-tier safety department and engineering team, we can handle any project that is put in front of us.”
Initially, Mr. Crane primarily sourced its tower cranes from Morrow Equipment, which provided great technical and engineering support, Rabbits said.
“Gradually, we built up experience in our rigging crews for tower crane erection and climbing,” he said. “We hired a good team of experienced tower crane operators.
Inspections and maintenance
Once a tower crane is erected, it still requires routine inspections and maintenance.
“The cranes are inspected multiple times after the erection and throughout the duration of the project,” said Rabbits. “Once the crane is erected, it has an initial third-party inspection followed by the initial OSHA inspection. After it has been in the air for 40 hours, all the bolts are retorqued and inspected by the crew, who complete the retorque. It is then inspected by Cal OSHA at six months and then annually by a third-party and Cal OSHA.” Inspection regulations differ from
region to region, and state to state.
“We offer services that include providing our customers with a fully NCCCOcertified and accredited tower crane operators for any scope needed from self erectors to flat top, hammer head and luffing boom cranes,” Anderson said. “Our operators come backed with additional education and training programs offered in-house at NessCampbell and NessCampbell University.”
Rabbits said Mr. Crane provides expert planning and advice to its clients.
“We provide good/reliable equipment, do what we say we are going to do, have excellent tower crane operators and take on the tough jobs,” he said.
Understanding and staying on top of regulatory changes is very important, Anderson and Rabbits agreed.
“We are always looking for safer and more efficient means and methods to continue to be leaders in the industry,” said Anderson. “One very important factor in all of this is to maintain and promote the training and continuing education of our team members so that everyone is successful and goes home safe and healthy every day.”
Tower cranes provide a solid and reliable revenue stream because the projects normally run for 12 months or more.
TO
2024 SPONSORS
On projects in Singapore, Spain and Canada, Jaso Tower Cranes has adapted new models to accommodate the PPVC method of construction.
In the ever-evolving landscape of construction methodologies, the Prefabricated Prefinished Volumetric Construction (PPVC) method of construction is getting attention globally. PPVC construction involves the use of prefabricated modules, allowing for the assembly of fully finished modules at the construction site. Jaso Tower Cranes recognized the significance of PPVC and has tailored its crane offering to integrate with this method of construction.
Singapore is a pioneer in adopting the PPVC construction method. Jaso has been working in this region for decades, and the company has developed specialized load charts tailored to the requirements of Singaporean PPVC projects, the company said. Jaso has also worked on PPVC projects in Spain and Canada.
Two Jaso tower cranes – a J560 and a J300 – were used to build the Gateway Building at the University of British Columbia (UBC) in Vancouver, Canada. The cranes were supplied by Allied Crane based in Vancouver, BC.
The completed building will comprise 270,550 square feet and has a price tag
Lego-like construction
of CAD $18.91 million. The building is slated to finish in the fall of 2024, and will house schools associated with nursing, kinesiology and integrated student health services.
Precision and control
Tasked with erecting a PPVC-designed structure, the project demanded precision and control at a micro-level, according to Vinny Ficetola, sales manager at Allied Crane. The UBC project showcases the importance of local manufacturing and sustainable practices.
The precast modules were manufactured in Maple Ridge, Canada, and the building is sustainably designed with advanced mechanical systems, passive design strategies and a high performance envelope to reduce energy consumption. It was designed to meet the Canada Green Building Council’s Zero Carbon Building Standard.
Jaso’s micro-speed functionality is especially beneficial in the PPVC method of construction, allowing for delicate movements essential for handling the PPVC modules with the utmost of care, according to Álvaro Urbistondo, ME,
manager of North America for Jaso.
“Whether dealing with concrete, steel, a hybrid of concrete and steel PPVC modules, or the burgeoning popularity of wood PPVC modules combined with steel, our cranes are meticulously designed to cater to the diverse demands of different construction projects,” Urbistondo said.
Each PPVC module, regardless of its material composition, can weigh between 60 to 75 tons.
Heavy duty lifting
Jaso recently introduced the ECOMode system, specifically developed to streamline the OPEX of PPVC module construction. This system ensures resource efficiency without compromising on the performance or safety of the cranes.
As well, Jaso cranes are equipped with Smartlink, a connectivity feature that facilitates remote crane control and enables seamless monitoring and control of the crane’s operations.
“The growing trend towards PPVC, particularly in Asia, has led to increased requests for cranes with heavy duty lifting capacities,” said Theodor Peter Huitema, area manager for Jaso. “As a response to this demand, Jaso designed the J1400 with an 80 meter-long jib and can lift a maximum load of 64 tons and 10.5 tons at tip load. The first four units of this model have been purchased by Singaporeheadquartered Crane World Asia.”
Huitema says the demand for large tower cranes for PPVC projects extends beyond just Singapore. The company is also working on projects in Australia, Hong Kong and the United States, and markets like Sweden and the Netherlands also make use of large cranes to lift heavy pre-fab units. On a smaller scale, he noted, there are also pre-fab and pre-fabricated bathroom unit (PBU) projects in Chile and Spain, driving demand for cranes in the 500 to 700-ton class.
“This trend is set to grow because of an increasing lack of labor and more building with prefabricated modules,” Huitema said. n
Jaso has been adapting its tower crane range to enhance the efficiency and financial viability of PPVC module construction. Shown are Jaso cranes working at the University of British Columbia in Canada and Tengah, Singapore.
An effective program addresses three pillars: physical health, mental/ emotional health and nutrition.
Committing to trucker health
Even amid the skilled-worker shortage and the ever-evolving mental health reality within the trades, it’s probably easy to overlook, or not even realize, that the average lifespan of an American trucker is 61 years old. This alarming statistic is significantly lower than the national average (77), and highlights the unique challenges and health risks faced by professionals in the trucking industry, from long hours and sedentary lifestyles to high stress and limited access to healthy food options. It should go without saying that addressing this issue is crucial to improving the well-being and longevity
SC&RA Leadership
CHAIRMAN
Scott Bragg
Bragg Companies, Long Beach, CA
PRESIDENT
J Rozum
MSA Delivery Service, Canton, MI
VICE PRESIDENT
Jim Sever
PSC Crane & Rigging, Piqua, OH
TREASURER
Michael Vlaming
Vlaming & Associates, Vallejo, CA
ASSISTANT
TREASURER
Harry Fry
Harry Fry & Associates, West Newbury, MA
ALLIED INDUSTRIES
GROUP CHAIR
Mike Walsh
Dearborn Companies, Bridgeview, IL
CRANE & RIGGING GROUP CHAIR
Randy Sever
PSC Crane & Rigging, Piqua, OH
TRANSPORTATION
GROUP CHAIR
David Yarbrough Yarbrough Transfer, Winston-Salem, NC
of truckers on the basic human wellness level, but as a business, a company that exhibits an obvious acknowledgement for the total, long-term health and wellness of its workforce will almost certainly enhance its own attractiveness as an employer, and ultimate growth as a result.
As far as planning goes in that regard, in modern times, a company’s commitment to employee health is often only as good as its workplace wellness program. But what is that, exactly?
In so many words, such programs can include a variety of activities and resources designed to encourage healthy behaviors and lifestyles – including, but not limited to: health screenings and assessments, fitness programs, nutrition education, stress management, smoking cessation programs (51 percent of American truckers smoke), worklife balance initiatives and incentives (competitions and rewards for achieving health-related goals).
As for the approach, an effective program would address three pillars: physical health, mental/emotional health and nutrition. Key elements within these tiers would include: customization and flexibility, employee engagement, a supportive environment, access and inclusivity, continuing education, confidentiality/privacy and, understandably, measurement and evaluation.
underscores the extreme importance of addressing these issues early and often within the transportation industry. In pursuit of this aim, implementing a successful workplace wellness program in a trucking company involves addressing the specific challenges truckers face and ensuring that the program is accessible, engaging and supportive.
You can start by assessing needs and interests – probably through surveys and feedback, as well as voluntary health assessments, all of which can identify common health issues. A comprehensive plan would come next – complete with tailored programs and a holistic approach that doesn’t take shortcuts on the physical, mental and emotional aspects mentioned above. Management buyin is also crucial, which likely includes budget allocation. Portable resources (from resistance bands/and on-the-road workout programs to healthy snacks to mobile apps) as well as virtual options (health coaching, telemedicine services and online wellness workshops) also have a huge impact on trucker health.
PRESIDENT
Jennifer Gabel
JK Crane, Kenvil, NJ
VICE PRESIDENT
Kate Landry Deep South Crane & Rigging, Baton Rouge, LA
TREASURER
Stephanie Bragg
Bragg Companies, Long Beach, CA
A win is a win
Increasing healthy habits for truckers can be challenging due to the nature of their job. In turn, many of these challenges overlap with mental-health challenges, like isolation, sleep disruption and deprivation, physical discomfort and/or pain, regulatory and economic pressures, lack of quality healthcare access and even lack of workplace support.
The stress of juggling any or all of these additional layers can obviously merge with the physical challenges to create conditions that likely feel insurmountable – and often are when you consider the aforementioned lifespan of truckers.
The combination of these conditions
And lastly, check-ins and check-ups are imperative to keeping the program intact and hopefully hitting the mark with your workforce. As is almost always the case, communication is everything. Keep the lines open and available at all times –you’ll likely see enhancements in overall health and performance, safety, employee satisfaction and even your company’s reputation. And don’t hesitate in sharing success stories from truckers who have benefited from the program. A win is a win – and any efforts we can make to extend the lifespans of the people we care about should be celebrated along with those people whose lives are improving as a result. n
Pioneering
In the rapidly evolving landscape that is crane, rigging and specialized transportation, next-generation leaders stand at the forefront of the transformations shaping the industry both today and into the future. Each year, SC&RA showcases a group of these individuals with its distinguished 4 Under 40 recognition – which spotlights SC&RA members under the age of 40 who are actively involved in immediately impacting their company, the industry and the Association overall through their participation on task forces, committees and events.
MATHIEU CHAUDANSON is one of SC&RA’s recipients for 2024. He currently serves as a Senior Associate, Director of Mobile Crane Engineering at member company Howard I. Shapiro & Associates Consulting Engineers, P.C. (Lynbrook, N.Y.).
Chaudanson holds a master’s degree in
Latest SC&RA 4 Under 40 recipients commit to industry’s next chapter.
mechanical engineering from INSA Lyon, France; a master’s degree in mechanical research; and a New York State PE License. He admits to “falling” into the crane industry somewhat by accident.
“I landed an internship with Howard I. Shapiro & Associates and really fell in love with the work,” he explained. “I get to work with big cranes every day – every kid’s dream!”
He added, “The engineering required in this field is perfect for me. I appreciate watching concepts materialize, and it’s very rewarding when the job in the field is performed just as I envisioned it in front of my computer.”
Vision being what it is, Chaudanson spearheaded the overhaul of Howard I. Shapiro & Associates’ billing system by introducing fixed fees that contributed to a 25 percent revenue increase in 2023. He’s also played an important role in expanding the company’s mobile crane engineering team from seven to nine engineers and drafters.
All the while, he maintained, “SC&RA’s impact on my professional growth has been significant. The Association’s guidance manuals are industry benchmarks, and I had the opportunity to contribute to the development of the Guide to Tower Crane Procedures. This opportunity expanded my network, allowing me to collaborate with peers and engage with stakeholders – from manufacturers to crane users.”
TIFFANY MYHRE Executive Director at Precision Heavy Haul, Inc.
and specialized carriers’ community, and I know there are big shoes to fill,” she acknowledged.
Myhre graduated from Arizona State University magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in education and followed that up a few years later with an MBA from University of Phoenix. She was inspired and motivated by her father, Mike Poppe, to join PHH – having been around the industry her whole life.
“I believe our industry is a crucial part of the economy and that every day presents new challenges that give me a sense of accomplishment once achieved,” she indicated.
MATHIEU CHAUDANSON Senior Associate, Director of Mobile Crane Engineering at Howard I. Shapiro & Associates Consulting Engineers, P.C.
Utilizing the moment
Similar to Chaudanson, TIFFANY
MYHRE, Executive Director at member company Precision Heavy Haul, Inc. (Tolleson, Ariz.), and a member of SC&RA’s Insurance and Risk Management Committee, considers it an honor to be recognized by SC&RA and the legacy such recognition represents. “I’ve seen the many talented individuals in the crane
To that end, in the past year, Myhre handled an incoming bid request for PHH and turned a cost-prohibitive project into a profitable one for the family business. “The project required a heavy haul transporter, and the amount of insurance coverage requested on the contract far exceeded what we believed the scope of work would require,” she pointed out. “I was able to negotiate the insurance terms and coverage as well as have that company pay for the additional premium in order to do the work. It was a
the future
successful outcome for us, and the project has introduced us to new customers – including strengthening our working relationship with the original customer.”
Passion and purpose
CHARLIE REILLY, Director of Operations at member company Palco Transportation, LLC (Lambertville, N.J.), considers his SC&RA 4 Under 40 recognition among the most prestigious he’s received in his career. Especially when less than a decade ago, he wasn’t even in the industry.
“Eight or nine years ago, I was working in retail and really couldn’t figure out what I wanted to do,” he said. “I began working here at Palco for my uncle as a pilot car operator. And in 2020, I went back to school and got a degree in logistics and supply chain management from Portland State University.”
Reilly moved into the Palco office, plugging into some operational work, and quickly found the passion and purpose that had seemed elusive up to that point. “There’s a lot of planning and work that goes into each job we do,” he said. “It’s a
great feeling when the job is completed safely, correctly and successfully. And to be recognized for my part in these types of projects is an absolute honor.”
One job that Reilly has personally contributed to at Palco is the design/build of a more streamlined process to track load movement, truck scheduling and other operational aspects of the business through specialized software. He has also worked on marketing Palco heavily in the past year, including Palco Transportation’s first-time entry into SC&RA’s prestigious 2024 Hauling Job of the Year competition.
“We’ve seen profitability grow directly from these efforts, especially in recent months through events,” he noted, “and we’ve also gained new customers and continue to build new relationships.”
Reilly also remains very active in SC&RA. A former Leadership Forum graduate, he now serves on the Permit Policy Committee, serving as its pointperson volunteer for issues in the northeast states.
At the forefront
Like Reilly, BRITTANY BACHMAN, Marketing Manager at member company Boulter Industrial Contractors, Inc. (Webster, N.Y.), didn’t come up in the industry, but now makes a living promoting a company in the space.
“To be honest, when I started at Boulter, I remember once asking, ‘What is rigging?’” she explained. “Which, funny enough, has now turned into one of my favorite marketing campaigns.”
Bachman earned a bachelor’s degree in marketing from SUNY Oswego and eventually went from working at a sevenperson public affairs department at a hospital to being a one-person marketing team at Boulter.
CHARLIE REILLY Director of Operations at Palco Transportation, LLC.
“It was a drastic shift, which meant I had to learn fast,” she said. “I think that’s what I have enjoyed most, however – being able to immerse myself in the industry and learn about the opportunities and challenges within it.”
True to form, in July 2023, Bachman redesigned and transferred Boulter’s website to HubSpot, focusing on enhancing the customer experience.
BRITTANY BACHMAN
Marketing Manager at Boulter Industrial Contractors.
“This strategic move has already yielded impressive results, increasing our website traffic by thirty percent,” she revealed. “Additionally, we’re on track to bring in twice the number of qualified leads compared to last year, directly impacting our sales pipeline and overall profitability.”
Bachman also serves on Boulter’s Young Leaders Development Committee and the Company’s board of directors, where she actively contributes to the company’s long-term growth strategies.
Relatedly, in 2019, Bachman helped Boulter host its first Lift & Move USA event. (In 2023, Boulter was recognized by SC&RA as a Lift & Move USA Workforce Ambassador.) And since 2019, she has attended INBOUND, a recognized sales and marketing conference, to gather fresh insights and strategies.
“The knowledge and ideas gained from this event are being implemented to keep our company at the forefront of the industry,” Bachman emphasized, “ensuring we continue to grow and maintain our position as a leading player for another hundred and thirty years.” ■
An economic shift
In recent years, the global economy has witnessed a widespread surge in commodity prices. This trend is readily apparent when you head to the grocery store and see firsthand the steady climb for the most basic household staples. The crane, rigging and specialized carrier industry has not been immune to this economic shift, facing escalating costs across virtually all aspects of operations.
Challenges ahead
If you’re a business owner in this sector, you’ve likely experienced the financial strain of these price hikes. The impact is far-reaching and presents several significant challenges:
PROJECT VIABILITY: Rising costs threaten the feasibility of projects, potentially leading to cancellations or postponement.
PROFIT MARGINS: Increased expenses are squeezing profit margins, making it harder for companies to maintain profitability.
GROWTH LIMITATIONS: The financial pressure may slow company growth as resources are diverted to cover higher operational costs.
The problem is multifaceted, with several high-ticket items contributing to the overall rise in expenses:
MATERIALS: The cost of raw materials and equipment has seen substantial increases.
LABOR: Wages and benefits for skilled workers have risen to keep pace with inflation and market demands.
INSURANCE: Premiums for various types of necessary insurance coverage have also climbed significantly. These factors combine to create a challenging business environment for the crane, rigging and specialized carrier industry, requiring careful navigation and strategic planning to maintain success and growth.
Understanding the industry
If you’ve recently renewed your insurance policy, you’ve likely encountered a sobering reality: a noticeable increase in your premium. This trend is not isolated but rather a reflection of the highly cyclical nature of the insurance business, where numerous external factors significantly influence pricing.
Several interconnected elements contribute to the current upward trajectory of insurance costs. These include elevated loss activity and severity, swings in the investment market, litigation funding, large jury verdicts and a rise in inflation. These factors collectively contribute to the spike in insurance premiums, which for many businesses represents one of their top operating costs. Understanding these dynamics can help organizations better prepare for and navigate the challenges of insurance renewals in the current market climate. In today’s dynamic insurance market, particularly within the crane, rigging, and specialized carrier industry, we’re witnessing a significant shift in how
insurers operate and how businesses need to approach risk management.
Key factors
The availability of insurance is intrinsically linked to the capital reserves of insurance carriers. To maintain profitability in challenging markets, insurers are adopting various strategies. These may include increasing premium rates, implementing stricter underwriting criteria or all together exiting niche or high-risk markets. This trend has led to insurers becoming increasingly selective about the risks they’re willing to underwrite, establishing a new norm in the insurance landscape.
If your approach to risk financing has been casual or reactive, you’ve likely encountered challenges during policy renewals in recent years. The current market demands a proactive stance when it comes to purchasing insurance. Meaning it is crucial to understand the various risk financing options available by working with insurance advisors who are specialists. With their consult you should identify which solutions best align with your business operations and enhance your insurance experience through informed decision-making.
Despite these challenges, there are opportunities. We’re currently in an era of unprecedented innovation in insurance solutions. The industry has developed a wide array of sophisticated and tailored options to address the complex needs
of businesses. By staying informed and taking a proactive approach to risk management, businesses can navigate this evolving landscape and secure the protection they need while optimizing their insurance expenditure.
Risk financing
In today’s complex insurance market, businesses have several risk financing options to consider. Each approach offers unique advantages and suits different operational needs. Let’s explore these options in detail.
Also known as guaranteed cost, first dollar or zero deductible insurance, traditional insurance is the most common risk financing method. Key features include complete risk transfer to the insurer, set premium for defined coverages and conditions and ideal for businesses seeking peace of mind. However, this type of insurance is most susceptible to market fluctuations and price volatility.
Deductible plans allow organizations to retain a portion of the risk while transferring the remainder to the insurer. There is potential for immediate cost reduction and greater control over risk
management. But there might be possible collateral requirements from insurers to help protect their credit risk and typically, unlimited deductible reimbursements.
In the self-insurance approach, a company assumes 100 percent of its risk exposure. It is best suited for companies with deep understanding of their risk exposures. The main challenge is an unlimited downside risk, with the company responsible for all claims.
Captive insurance offers a hybrid approach, combining elements of traditional insurance and self-insurance. Well certainly not for everyone, captives are a solution that provides the best of both worlds for the proactive organization: a palatable level of risk that oftentimes includes a defined best- and worst-case scenario, allowing organizations to take advantage of favorable claims experience. Though specifics to captive structures may vary, they tend to carry the same principles. Typically, a portion of an insured’s premium dollars are set aside in an investment account where losses up to a certain level are taken from the account as losses occur. Captives are a risk reward proposition as there is potential
for premium returns or additional contributions based on the insured’s loss experience. For sizeable operations, there are many creative structures available in addition to group captives.
Benefits include an alignment of interests between operators, insurance agents and insurance carrier, greater long-term control over risk financing and enhanced focus on safety and operational performance. Captive insurance does require working with knowledgeable insurance agents to navigate complexities. In these challenging times, a proactive approach to insurance purchasing is crucial. By understanding and leveraging all available insurance solutions, companies can better navigate the new normal of the insurance market. While the future may be uncertain, the right risk financing strategy can provide stability and control over insurance costs. Remember, the best choice depends on your specific operational needs, risk tolerance and long-term financial goals. Consulting with experienced insurance professionals can help you make an informed decision that best suits your business. ■
JOIN US IN ARIZONA THIS YEAR!
The Workshop features everything from cutting-edge technology and safety practices to consensus standards and regulatory updates. Stay up-to-date on training, equipment maintenance, and issues impacting your business.
Crane & Rigging Workshop
September 24 – 26, 2024
Renaissance Phoenix Glendale Hotel
Glendale, AZ
A list of best practices for CCO test takers.
Do’s and don’ts
CCO offers more options with more flexibility in taking written exams than ever before. While the new exam delivery modalities are designed to ensure fair and valid test results for all candidates, CCO has recently seen a number of incidents resulting in invalidations of written exams.
Candidates taking written exams on every platform – Online Proctored Testing (OPT), Test Center Testing (TCT) and Event Online Testing (EOT) – agree to video and audio recording of the exams in addition to the AI and proctor monitoring used, depending on the platform. These recordings enable CCO to review exams for misconduct. Unfortunately, video surveillance has shown violations of policies and procedures, jeopardizing the integrity
of some test administrations.
As a result of these reviews, CCO has been forced to invalidate nearly 100 exams in the past three months.
The Program Integrity Team (PIT) investigates whenever candidates do something to invalidate their tests –many times that is because they did not do something as simple as follow the on-screen instructions. To help candidates avoid having to retake exams, CCO is providing the following best practices and things to avoid while testing.
DO:
■ Read and follow all on-screen instructions
■ Stay visible on camera for the duration of the exam
■ Keep your testing area clear
■ Remain in the testing room
Side boom certification
CCO Certification is honored to announce that 11 industry experts have been selected to develop a new certification program for side boom tractor operators. These machines fall under the ASME B30.14 Side Boom Tractors standard.
In response to numerous requests from industry, CCO is developing this program so that users can garner the same increased safety benefits that users of other load handling equipment have seen through CCO certification.
The task force includes both experienced CCO contributors and new experts with more specialized knowledge, including those from unions, training companies, construction contractors, energy companies and regulatory authorities:
■ Bryan Abel, IUOE/PLCA National Pipeline Training Fund
■ Randel Besemer, IUOE Local 324
■ Marcus Brister, ExxonMobil
■ Ar t DeLeon, Underground Construction Co., Inc.
■ David Hopkins, Price Gregory LLC
■ Chad Lynch, IUOE Local 324
■ Robert Merkel, Duke Energy
■ Maynard Richmond, US Pipeline
■ Gregg Strede, IUOE Local 478
■ Jackie Terry, Enbridge
■ Kenneth Villarete, Underground Construction Co.
Program development will begin in Q3, and the new program is expected to be launched by the end of 2025.
Like all other certification programs that CCO has developed, this new Side Boom Tractor Operator program will be built according to the same strict psychometric standards that are a hallmark of all CCO’s certification programs, resulting in a certification process that is fair, valid, reliable and legally defensible. Program development will begin in Q3, and the new program is expected to be launched by the end of 2025.
CCO has provided a list of best practices and things to avoid while testing.
■ Candidates are permitted to have an 8½-inch by 11-inch whiteboard, which must be erased before and after the exam.
DON’T:
■ Use unauthorized material, including physical calculator, pen/paper, cellphone, paper notes or posters/ whiteboards with info on the wall
■ Use computer tools such as digital calculator (other than what is available in the exam)
■ Take unauthorized breaks (no breaks permitted)
■ Frequently look off screen
■ Wear hats, earbuds, or headphones
■ Allow unauthorized individuals in the testing room
■ Read aloud questions or answers
■ Wear a smartwatch
■ B e off-camera (intentionally lean back/to the side)
■ Cover or turn off the camera CCO must enforce exam security rules to ensure the integrity and fairness of our exams, so we have extensive measures in place to catch those who try to skirt the system. CCO will continue to monitor all exams and act as necessary against those who do not follow policy.
Candidates are encouraged to review documentation sent to them in preparation for testing to ensure they are familiar with what they may and may not do or have during exams. If anything is not clear, they may contact CCO Customer Service with specific questions.
■
Join us in Rome
Join other industry leaders at the 9th International Tower Cranes conference in Rome. Bringing the industry together to further develop knowledge on safety, innovation, trends and best practice.
WHERE
Cardo Roma, Autograph Collection
Viale Del Pattinaggio, 100 Rome 00144
Rome, Italy
WHAT
Full-day conference, networking receptions and tour.
WHEN
3 June 2025: Off-site tour TBC followed by a welcome networking drinks reception.
4 June 2025: Full day conference and post-event farewell drinks reception.
CCO Foundation names new officers to its board
The NCCCO Foundation announced several new appointments, retirements and new officers to its Board of Directors, who began their service on July 1. Kerry Hulse, retired vice president of operations, Deep South Crane & Rigging; Tim Watters, president, Hoffman Equipment; and Chris Ryan, retired vice president of Equipment, Boh Bros. Construction; completed their terms and retired from the Foundation Board of Directors.
Three new individuals were appointed to fill the vacated board positions: Robert Albano, retired chairman, Heavy Equipment Colleges of America; Kate Lampson, director of business
development and strategic communication, Lampson International; and Pete Laux, senior equipment manager, Kiewit Companies.
Individuals continuing their current terms include Alexander Alonso, chief knowledge officer, Society for Human Resource Management; Garry Higdem, retired CEO of Mario Sinacola & Sons;
Adrian Lacey, apprenticeship director, Florida West Coast Operating Engineers Apprenticeship Local 487; and Ingo Schiller, partner, Path Finder Consulting Group. Thomas Sicklesteel, CEO, National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators. continues as an Ex Officio member of the board. Subsequently, Higdem, Schiller and Laux were elected
Engineered Rigging hires Holt
Equipment rental company Engineered Rigging, has named Jay Holt, PE and PMP, as director of assets and engineering. Holt comes to ER with more than 22 years of experience, spanning work at Rigging International, Sarens, Bigge Crane and
Rigging and Entergy. Holt is responsible for managing Engineered Rigging’s rental fleet of heavy lifting and specialized transport equipment and developing engineering solutions for the company’s clients.
“Having an in-house
engineering team, equipment rental and seasoned technical support under a single roof is one of the unique advantages that Engineered Rigging offers our clients,” said Christopher Cox, PE, founder and president of Engineered Rigging. “We’re thrilled to strengthen our capabilities with the addition of Jay Holt.” ■
Cioara joins Superior Rigging team
Superior Rigging & Erecting has appointed Cristian Cioara as the Orlando, FL branch vice president and general manager. Cioara joined the team in June, bringing with him 18 years of experience and expertise in the construction industry.
Cioara has held senior engineering and project management roles i at Turner Construction Company. His
background includes managing high-profile projects, such as the USCIS & DHS in Atlanta, GA. Cioara ‘s skills in design-build, high-rise vertical construction, federal work, healthcare work and special projects make him an invaluable addition to the team, the company said.
“We are excited to welcome Cristian to Superior,” said Patrick Lewis, CEO. “His experience in managing diverse and complex construction projects will be a tremendous asset. We look forward to seeing the solutions and leadership he will bring to our team.” ■
to serve as president, vice president and secretary/ treasurer, respectively, for a one-year term.
“The NCCCO Foundation is fortunate to have benefited from the knowledge and experience of all those members of the board who have recently retired,” said T.J. Cantwell, NCCCO Foundation Executive Director.
“We are equally grateful to have the excellent leadership and support of our current directors and new appointees on the board to guide the organization forward,” Cantwell added. ■
2024
September 24-26
SC&RA Crane & Rigging Workshop Glendale, AZ scranet.org
KYLE CLAYSON has been named branch manager of Morrow Equipment New England.
Jay Holt
Cristian Cioara
Garry Higdem President Ingo Schiller Vice President
Pete Laux Secretary/Treasurer
The Marketplace
the products and/or services
ACT’s Marketplace is designed to help readers find the products and services they
convenient categories including equipment for sale, crane & lifting services, transport & heavy haul, training and dealers & distributors.
55 Training Directory
Training, inspections and certification
56 Slings & Things
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Find a compant for your Permit & Pilot Car needs
58 Dealer Locator
Find a Dealer/Distributor by using ACT’s Dealer Locator. Check out the interactive map online. Click to see where the dealers are and contact them from the map. From the printed page, please pick up the phone and call for your crane needs.
64 Products, Parts & Accessories
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73 Transport & Heavy Haul
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Career Opportunities
Posted Jobs in Your Industry
TRAINING DIRECTORY
A1A Software (3D LiftPlan Training) 904 430-0355
www.a1asoftware.com/training
Geoff Weiss
CICB, Crane Inspection & Certification Bureau 800-327-1386 www.cicb.com info@cicb.com
Morrow Training Center 1-503-585-5721 ext 0118 or 0128 www.morrow.com training@morrow.com
Contact our distributors and find out how we can help improve your bottom line. Visit info.terex.com/distributorsearch to find your local distributor.
Bigge Crane and Rigging Co.
10700 Bigge Ave, San Leandro, CA. 94577
Tel: 510-681-0908
e-mail: cranesales@bigge.com www.bigge.com
Authorized Dealer for AK, AZ, CA, OR, UT, WA, WY
Rough terrain cranes and Tower
Cranes
Branches:
Los Angeles, CA Tel: 714-684-7086
Salt Lake City UT Tel: 801-951-7203
San Leandro, CA Tel: 510-681-0908
Cropac Equipment Inc.
1-800-4-CROPAC www.cropac.com
e-mail: sales@cropac.com
Branches: Abbotsford. BC. Tel: 604-755-3927
Oakville, ON. Tel: 905-825-6377
Laval, QC. Tel: 450-625-4738 Nisku, AB. Tel: 780-955-8862
MPE Equipment Services
800-642-6653 www.mperepairs.com
email: jill@mperepairs.com
Branches: Bayard, IA Tel: 712-651-2767
Des Moines, IA Tel: 660-295-4661
www.terex.com/tower-cranes/en/find-a-dealer
Select Crane Sales
1-833-PICK-SCS www.selectcrane.com
email: sales@selectcrane.com
Branches: New Jersey Tel: 908-823-0650
-Heavy-duty all-purpose grease
-Calcium sulfonate grease with 5% moly
-Designed for all types of construction and industrial equipment
-Excellent resistance to water washout
- -40° to +400° F operating range
- Ideal all-purpose grease for equipment operating in wet and dirty environments
- Excellent spray pattern
Garrod Hydraulics provides cylinder repair solutions for all makes and models of cranes.
Toughest repairs done.
Respond with timely, cost-effective solutions.
Use OEM parts.
Specific to your needs.
Technology unsurpassed.
Expertise in the repairs and remanufacturing of hydraulic cylinders.
Demand our employees provide highest customer satisfaction.
Waiting on Mary
On April 17, 2024, a tunnel boring machine (TBM) known as “Mary,” broke through a headwall, completing the first tunnel that is a part of the Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel Expansion (HRTAC) project. The largest highway construction project in Virginia’s history, estimated to cost $9.3 billion, the project is set for completion in early 2027.
A cadre of construction crews were on hand to see Mary emerge, busting through the barrier with its rotating head grinding away amid the rock, dirt and dust.
Waiting on Mary was W.O. Grubb’s Manitowoc MLC650, which was sitting above the tunnel opening, waiting to assist in the turnaround of the TBM. After emerging into a receiving pit at North Island, crews used nitrogen tables to raise, slide and turn “Mary” 180 degrees, according to Virginia Department of Transportation.
W.O. Grubb’s Manitowoc MLC650 sits above the tunnel, waiting on the tunnel boring machine to break through the headwall.
76 truck loads
The pre-owned Manitowoc MLC650 was dispatched to the site by Atlantic Coast Cranes & Machinery, located in Ashland, VA. The 772-ton capacity crawler with the VPC Max Superlift attachment was delivered in 76 truckloads in April 2024.
Atlantic Coast Cranes & Equipment sold the used 772ton Manitowoc MLC650 with VPC Max Superlift to W.O. Grubb for the Virginia Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel expansion.
“ACC was honored to be awarded the contract to supply the Manitowoc MLC650 with VPC Max for this project by W.O. Grubb, and delighted to work with Bill Grubb and his world-class organization,” said Wally Jones, ACC president.
After some quick maintenance, Mary made a U-turn to begin the second tunnel. This project will widen the four-lane segments along nearly 10 miles of the I-64 corridor in Norfolk and Hampton, with new twin tunnels across the harbor. The expansion will increase capacity and ease major traffic, according to Virginia DOT.
Grinding away
“Mary” measures 46 feet in diameter and is 300 feet long. She was launched from the South Island (Norfolk side) in April 2023 and bored about 50 feet per day. Built specifically for this project in Germany, Mary cost about $70 million, which includes construction, shipping and assembly costs. Mary is located about 173 feet below the harbor’s surface. The TBM excavates tunnels with a circular cross-section through the soil. It took 13 months to build the first tunnel.
Mary was named by the Saint Gregory the Great Catholic School, which won first place in the TBM Naming Contest. She is named for Mary Jackson, a mathematician and aerospace engineer at NASA, noted for her pioneering role of an African America woman in the field of science and engineering and her contributions to the space program. Jackson was from Hampton, Virginia, where the HRTAC project is located. ■
Mary the tunnel boring machine is grinding away on a highway project in Virginia.
Let Greer breathe new life into your equipment with retrofit and replacement RCI And LMI systems. We support over 1,000 crane models including Link-Belt, Terex, Mantis, Broderson, Manitex, Badger, Elliott, and Altec. We offer replacement parts to support your older MG400 and MG500 series RCI and LMI systems. And we have retrofit LMI systems available for non-Greer RCI systems.
The Greer Advantage includes: Continuous monitoring of crane operation and capacity to ensure safe operations
Predictable performance in all weather conditions
Easiest and most intuitive interface on the market, reducing operator training and increasing crane productivity
Multiple display options available, including touch-screen technology
Fastcal™ – fastest calibration on the market
Full range of models from 5,000 lbs. capacity up to 180,000 lbs
95% vibration reduction
Load cells don’t have to be removed for use with vibratory hammer
Eliminates wear and tear on hydraulic boom cylinders
Suitable for use with any hydraulic boom/crawler crane and any make/model vibratory hammer
