Tandem lift training

Maritime terminal operator DP World's UAE unit has installed a simulator at the Jebel Ali port to train operators using its giant tandem lift cranes.

The cranes are capable of handling four 20 foot (6 m) containers or two 40 foot (12 m) containers simultaneously. The device is the first of its kind in the world.

The simulator, which DP World says is also the first of its kind, operates in a virtual real-time environment, giving the trainees the feel of a real tandem lift crane cabin setting. This allows trainees to be familiarised with all aspects of operating the huge cranes.

Trainees are faced with all-weather and work-related conditions, including day and night settings. According to DP World the device halves the previous training period.

In addition to tandem lift cranes, operators will be able to train on standard, rubber-tyred or rail mounted gantry cranes.

“Our operators frequently handle valuable cargo and this training will ensure that we have a pool of highly trained people to provide topquality services to our customers.

“We hope to extend the training to other DP World-run terminals, and are also exploring the possibility of using the device to establish a training centre for crane crews from other ports in the region,” says Mohammad Al Muallem, senior vice-president and managing director of DP World's UAE region.