Scaling Up Safety: Hanford Workers Practice Hoisting and Rigging

Course instructors Jon Bills, left, and Dave Hickman demonstrate hoisting and rigging techniques using a scaled-down, remote-controlled crane at the Hanford Site's Volpentest Hazardous Materials Management and Emergency Response Federal Training Center.

RICHLAND, Wash. - Thanks to a new training tool, workers at the Hanford Site are getting hands-on experience operating cranes, just on a smaller scale.

The Volpentest Hazardous Materials Management and Emergency Response (HAMMER) Federal Training Center recently added a 1/14th scale, remote-controlled crane to its Hoisting and Rigging Training Program. Hoisting and Rigging teaches workers how to safely handle all components of a crane "under a hook."

The course instructors operate the cranes while students alternate through four roles listed in Hanford's sitewide hoisting and rigging manual - designated lead, rigger, signal person and tag-line holder - as the course progresses.

"Safety and risk reduction are paramount to our Hanford cleanup mission," said Angela Stoddard, Hanford program manager. "HAMMER provides realistic training and emphasizes continuous improvement, which helps ensure our workforce continues to have the knowledge and skills to complete work safely."

Course instructor Jon Bills demonstrates hand signals used during a lift.

Historically, instructors trained workers on safe rigging practices through lectures. This hands-on training allows workers to practice in a controlled setting, leading directly to transferable skills in the field.

"We can simulate the same situations they will encounter in the field," said Scott Cannon, HAMMER's activity manager for Hoisting and Rigging. "Using this crane reinforces students' training by enabling them to practice on a smaller scale, with real rigging techniques."