Crane Chaser for a Day: My Experience

The Call of the Construction Site

There’s something about a construction site that gets the blood pumping. The organised chaos, the smell of fresh sawdust, the steady rhythm of heavy machinery – it’s like a symphony of raw power and progress. For years, I’d pass these sites, the towering cranes like sentinels against the skyline, and a thought would flicker: “What would it be like to be part of that world?”

That question turned into an opportunity. Through a connection, I secured a day to shadow ‘Robbo’, a veteran construction dogman with over a decade under his tool belt.

What’s a Construction Dogman, Anyway?

Before diving in, let’s clarify. A construction dogman (or crane chaser) is the crucial link between the crane operator and the load. They’re responsible for everything ground-side: rigging loads safely, guiding them with clear signals, and ensuring nothing and no one gets hurt in the process.

It might sound simple, but don’t be fooled. According to the Australian Government’s Job Outlook, it’s a role in high demand, especially with our current infrastructure boom. It demands physical fitness, mental sharpness, and a knack for precision under pressure.

Gearing Up: More Than Just a Hard Hat

Stepping onto site with Robbo felt like entering a different world. The safety induction was no joke – and rightfully so. Dogmen are exposed to numerous hazards, and the stats are sobering. Safe Work Australia reports that over 20% of workplace fatalities in the construction industry involve mobile plants like cranes.

Beyond the high-vis vest and hard hat, Robbo’s tool belt was a revelation: slings of various sizes, D-shackles, specialised hooks… it dawned on me that rigging is both an art and a science.

In the Thick of It: The Rhythm of the Site

The first task: slinging a massive prefabricated concrete slab. Robbo moved with the focused speed of someone with muscle memory. He inspected the slab, chose the right sling for the weight, and attached it with a series of deft maneuvers. To me, it looked like a puzzle. To him, it was second nature.

Once the slab was secure, the ballet between Robbo and the crane operator began. His hand signals were crisp, fluid – a silent language that controlled tons of material as it floated mid-air.

The sheer size of the loads was mind-boggling, and Robbo’s unwavering focus was impressive. I’ll admit to a few heart-stopping moments when a gust of wind would sway a massive steel beam, but Robbo stayed as cool as a cucumber.

Beyond Brute Force: The Hidden Skills

As the day progressed, I realised a dogman’s job is way more than slinging things and yelling directions. Here’s what most blogs don’t tell you:

• Spatial Awareness: Picture a giant 3D Tetris game. That’s what dogmen wrangle with every lift. They must visualise where a load needs to go and the obstacles in its path.
• Load Calculations: They’re not just strong; they’re walking calculators. Dogmen need a basic understanding of load weights and distribution to choose the right rigging gear and avoid disastrous overloads.
• Communication is King: Miscommunication with a crane operator can be catastrophic. A dogman needs clear signals, radio etiquette, and the ability to stay calm, even when things get hectic

Challenges & Respect

Construction is not for the faint of heart. Here are some realities I witnessed:

• Physical Demands: It’s a long day on your feet, with constant bending, lifting, and maneuvering. The weather doesn’t care about your comfort.
• Mental Strain: Mistakes can have huge consequences. That kind of responsibility takes a toll.
• Unpredictability: Construction rarely follows a neat schedule. Dogmen need flexibility and adaptability.

Despite the challenges, the respect dogmen command on site is evident. They’re essential cogs in the machine, and their skillset ensures everything moves smoothly and safely.

Eyes Opened: Lessons Learned

My day as a “shadow dogman” humbled me. This is a career path with surprising depth, and here’s what stuck with me:

• Safety is Paramount: Cutting corners can cost lives. Seeing the safety protocols rigorously enacted hammered this home.
• It’s a Team Sport: A construction site is the ultimate collaboration. Reliance on others breeds a strong sense of camaraderie.
• Hidden Skillsets: Respect the brains behind the brawn. Dogmen are problem-solvers, not just laborers.

Would I Do It Again?

In a heartbeat! The satisfaction of seeing a structure rise, knowing you helped make it happen, is its own reward. But it’s not for everyone. Ask yourself:

• Am I comfortable with heights and heavy machinery?
• Can I handle physical work and unpredictable conditions?
• Do I thrive under pressure and take responsibility seriously?

Path to Becoming a Dogman

If this has sparked your interest, let’s talk nuts and bolts:

• Licensing: You’ll need a Dogging licence (or equivalent) in your state/territory. Prerequisites vary slightly by region.
• Courses: Look for nationally recognised training courses. These typically involve both theory and hands-on practice.
• Experience Counts: Many employers want some on-the-job experience, even basic laboring. This proves your commitment.

Sources for Further Info:

• Job Outlook (Dogging): https://joboutlook.gov.au/
• Safe Work Australia: https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/
• State-specific work safety authorities (Check your region’s regulations)
• Construction Unions: Often provide resources, even apprenticeships.

Final Thoughts

My day as a crane chaser was more than eye-opening – it was inspirational. If you have the grit, the smarts, and a hankering for building things, this could be your path. Construction needs skilled people, and the rewards, both tangible and intangible, are very real.

Visit our website,  email us high risk work course enquiries or simply call us at 02 4201 0418 to kick start your journey, safely, both physically and mentally, in the field of construction crane chasing.

“Achieve more, become more with Achieve Training Services”
To Your Success
The Team at Achieve