We recently were sent this article from Primetals Technologies, who we partnered with to create a custom operator safety course just for their facility and equipment. This program is a fine example of what we can accomplish in training design and execution – please ask us if you would like something similar at your company.

CRANES101 TRAINING: A COMMITMENT TO SAFETY IN SUTTON
At the Sutton factory, safety is at the core of everything we do. One recent example is the launch of a comprehensive crane training program, ensuring that every factory employee has the skills and certification needed to safely operate overhead cranes.

Some time ago, the Factory Operations management team recognized the need to strengthen crane training at the Sutton factory. The facility is equipped with five bays containing multiple bridge cranes and several pedestal cranes, with capacities ranging from % ton to 30 tons. In the early days, the former Crescent Street facility relied on dedicated crane operators who worked from cages mounted on the cranes. Today, operations have shifted to floor-based controls — first by pendant and now by radio. Training over the years was inconsistent, but with the introduction of our early-career shop employee program — many of whom had never operated a crane — Factory Operations leadership recognized the importance of creating a sustainable program.

Project Coordinator Bill Wheeler led the search for the right partner, focusing not just on companies but on their instructors. “We wanted consistency, someone who would understand our needs and tailor the training,” Bill explained. After months of review, Cranes101 was selected, with John as the dedicated instructor. A pilot program with supervisors and shop personnel helped fine-tune the training before rolling it out across the factory.

The program has been a major success: 100% of the Sutton factory workforce is now crane certified. “This is a significant accomplishment, but it doesn’t stop here,” said Tony Kondek, EH&S Manager. “Bill and I are working to make this program endure by updating our policies to require this level of certification.”

Mike Eldredge, VP of Factory Operations, added: “This program reflects
management’s commitment to the safety of our people. We will gladly share our
experience and lessons learned with other Primetals Technologies facilities. Safety is not just a priority — it’s a way of life.”