Singapore slings

S tarting an event in a country for the first time is always going to prove challenging, especially when time "out of the office" is more valuable than ever. But if the inaugural LEEA Lifting & Rigging Conference Asis is anything to go by, the format is on a sound footing going forward.

The conference, which is organized by Bridger Howes, was particularly relevant for professionals working with overhead cranes, hoists and rigging equipment in onshore, offshore and marine applications Key to the success of any seminar and presentation-led event is ensuring the content on offer is diverse and engaging enough that delegates leave the room educated, informed and entertained

EDUCATION, EDUCATION, EDUCATION

The first day of the event featured a presentation from Mick Hoyle, the crane, rigging and lifting specialist at ExxonMobile, who shared a Safety by Distance concept with delegates, He expertly explained how the concept is based on an ideology that people should always be protected first, not assets. During the day, Simon Chan, managing director subsidiary Singapore, and Hermann Zink, director international projects, co-presented on behalf of Stahl CraneSystems. Their presentation outlined how projects are handled and how complex the relationships between the parties involved and the technologies and systems applied can become. Delegates learned how end users and contractors can uphold safety whilst meeting the other demands of contract fulfilment. Dr Phil Cutter, business development manager at Scotload also addressed the audience.

Other highlights include Bridon International examining how international standards are moving from a product base to an emphasis on safety while Daniel Hall, technical director of CEA Engineering Consult Co will discuss the suitability of specialised lifting equipment on the effectiveness of the industry to progress with technological developments

Bridon explaine that traditionally, standards have dealt with the product, defining parameters such as material, dimensions and manufacturing methods. However in more recent times the requirements have changed to be one of defining the performance required of the product to ensure its safe operation.

TRAINING EXPERTISE

Richard Marcotte, is a trainer and consultant at Industrial Training International. Marcotte engaged delegates with a special workshop for LEEA and shared 10 years of experience working with lifting equipment in oil refinery, construction, steel manufacturing, automotive manufacturing, power generation and other industries.

Day Two highlights included a LEEA presentation on the LEEA Academy and TEAM Card initiatives. Holders of the latter can benefit from a new website that offers rapid online verification of anyone with the TEAM Card. This is registration and identity scheme for workers qualified to test, examine and maintain overhead lifting equipment. he user enters the TEAM Card's unique serial number and company name into an online tool at www.leeaint. com with employers now be able to view a digital copy of the card itself, along with the holder's LEEA diploma qualifications and relevant work experience.