Roy Hill has taken steps to deliver dramatic safety improvements in crane operations by adopting a system that keeps people out of harm’s way.
The iron ore miner purchased Verton Australia’s remote-controlled load orientation system that eliminates the need for human held taglines.
The systems, which include Verton’s Everest 6 and R5 models, can manage loads of up to 20 tonnes and five tonnes respectively.
Both models were in use during Roy Hill’s recent mine shutdown when replacing an 18 tonne transformer.
“The Everest responded perfectly in smooth rotation with the load on the hook without causing the crane rope to twist, and there was no need for taglines during the lift so Roy Hill was able to keep the riggers out of the line of fire during lifting operations,” Verton chief executive Trevor Bourne said.
“This world-first technology … provides unprecedented safety for crane operations as it eliminates the need for tag line use and associated workloads. Workers will no longer be near or under moving loads thanks to the Everest Series.”
Bourne said safety controlling suspended loads had its challenges along with swinging loads, which increased the difficulty and risk of the lift.
“The Everest Series machines will help make lifting operations safer, more efficient and productive. There is also the ability to plan lifting operations better with data collected from the Verton units,” he added.
“We are delighted to be providing the Everest series for Roy Hill and it’s a significant milestone for the company to be involved in such a huge project.”