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Innovative On-Line Training Program for Crane Operators Launched by GGS Technical Publication Services

Posted on: Wednesday, 3 June 2009, 09:56 CDT

YORK, Pa., June 3 /PRNewswire/ -- A comprehensive online package of mobile and tower crane and signal person preparatory training programs is now available online via the Internet or in a CD based format from GGS Technical Publication Services, via www.operatornetwork.com.

Since 1988, GGS Technical Publication Services, headquartered in York, Pennsylvania, has been a leading global technical information provider to OEMs in the equipment industry. Because of its close working relationship to the construction equipment and agricultural equipment markets, GGS recognized a need for a modern preparatory training program specially designed for today's crane operators -- a study course which can assist them in successfully completing actual testing and certification as a condition of employment called for with the adoption of new and upcoming federal and state or provincial regulations regarding crane safety.

In response to that need in the construction equipment industry, GGS has launched a series of training programs for crane operators as well as signal persons -- to be followed later in the year with courses for riggers, aerial work platform (AWP) operators and others.

Past traditional 'paper and pencil' training methods have typically required that companies incur periods of costly down time and production loss when sending their personnel to classroom-style training courses. Time constraints have also prohibited each student from receiving individualized instruction at their own learning pace -- based on their respective skill and knowledge level.

Online training from GGS helps to solve these issues by allowing companies to have training "on-demand" with complete flexibility to schedule training within their production timetables. The comprehensive GGS online training program also gives students the ability to learn at an individual pace, while allowing them to spend more time on topics they may need additional focus on. Time constraints are not a factor as learning can also be accomplished during off-work hours or over the weekend.

Automated quizzes are taken after each module and a comprehensive final exam completes each course. The results are provided to the individual immediately after completing the test, with this feedback greatly enhancing the operator's learning curve.

Twenty-five modules comprise the course and begin with topics such as equipment set-up, supporting surfaces, and site evaluation. Other topics that are included highlight crane stability, electrical hazards, rigging, developing lift plans, inspections, hand signals, factors that reduce capacity, crane dynamics and more.

More difficult concepts such as principles of leverage and calculating load share in multi-crane lifts are not overlooked -- real world examples help make them easy to understand and grasp, mirroring conditions found in the real world where the operator is responsible for the safe operation of the crane.

The course also focuses extensively on the proper use and interpretation of load chart factors and how to perform calculations to determine safe lifting capacity.

The easily accessible format allows students to complete portions of the course at their own pace and easily pick up where they left off. Safety regulations are dispersed throughout the applicable modules, making it easier for students to retain what is often an overwhelming list of regulatory information.

Audio, video, animation, and quizzes help reinforce the learning concepts and provide the student with an interactive and engaging learning experience. The courses were designed for use for certification preparation, apprenticeship training, skill assessment, and training compliancy. All courses are in accordance with ASME and ANSI regulations and OSHA standards, and are SCORM compliant.

Through the GGS preparatory curriculum, equipment fleet owners and contractors can now feel more confident that operators sent for certification testing will have a greater likelihood of successfully passing their test. Certified trainers are also available for those companies that require practical hands-on training, and individual corporate packages can be tailored to meet specific project needs.

To purchase an on-line crane operator safety training program, or for more information and to view a demo, visit www.operatornetwork.com.

SOURCE GGS Technical Publication Services

Source: PR Newswire

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