Donnellan samples skills training needed to move ship’s containers and other cargo
Stevedoring company DP World has unveiled publically its new crane and straddle training simulator at Melbourne’s West Swanson Dock.
Victorian ports minister Luke Donnellan was on hand to test out the training equipment at the event that port and training dignitaries also attended.
With a set up reminiscent of an airline simulator and estimated to cut training time by about one-third, CM Labs’ Vortex simulator cabins are capable of reflecting atmospheric conditions such as high winds, rain and fog as well as varying time of day and night.
Other situations trainees can experience include:
- Faults such as locking twist locks, over weight containers, amongst others
- Safety procedures such as vehicles and pedestrians beneath the crane
- Shifting straddle carriers and light vehicles
- Crane and straddle tandem driving
- Emergency alarms
DP World says it is the most advanced operational simulator in the country and, after two months of operation, it has educated four trainees.
Meanwhile, the stevedoring firm revealed it was set to receive two new twin-lift gantry cranes with Merford ergonomic cabins next January next year and one in the following October.
They are to be capable of lifting 65 tonnes under the spreader and 75 tonnes under the hook.
The equipment will have a 51 metre reach, with a view to expected calls of wider ships, and be able to generate their own power as container, breakbulk or over-dimensional loads are lowered.
Next February will also see the arrival of 20 new Kalmar straddle carriers to arrive already assembled.
The twin-lift diesel electric machines, capable of lifting 50 tonnes under the spreader, will be four-wheel drive
“Our board has seen the importance of investing heavily,” DP World Australia MD and CEO Paul Scurrah says.