How the Construction Industry Can Benefit from the “Great Resignation”

Author: Mala Dewan  

When it comes to the labor shortage plaguing the construction industry, the consensus remains that there aren’t enough young workers stepping up to replace those who are retiring. Given the fact that only 16.7% of Gen Z-ers are interested in pursuing a career in construction, this shouldn’t come as a surprise.… Read more...

Non-Destructive Testing: More Than Meets the Eye

Everyone using rigging gear should know how to visually inspect and measure it for the following items:

  • Wear  
  • Broken strands 
  • Hook throat opening 
  • UV or temperature damage 
  • A readable capacity tag that matches sling size  
  • Check end fittings for safe use 

In addition to visual inspections and taking measurements, another valuable practice is to conduct Non-Destructive Testing (NDT).… Read more...

4 Tips to Help Students Understand Load Charts

A load chart indicates the crane’s capabilities and how its lifting capacity varies when considering radius, boom angle, and boom length. The loads weight, deductions, boom length, boom angle, parts of line, and other factors will vary the capacity. Load charts are one of the most important resources for crane operators, and understanding them is paramount.  … Read more...

5 Best Practices for Communicating with a Signal Person

While working on a job site, communication is critical to safe operations. When working with loud heavy equipment verbal communication is not always efficient or possible. That is why hand signals and the use of a certified and qualified signal person is vital during crane operations.  

Crane Industry Services Trainer & Inspector Noel Whelchel recommends these five best practices when communicating with a signal person.  … Read more...

Simulators Offer Employers an Efficient Way to Screen and Train Employees

CIS was recently featured in a case study with industry partner CM Labs Simulations. CIS started using CM Labs’ simulators in 2014 to help determine the impact of simulators on training. What the company discovered was that Vortex Simulators from CM Labs are not just for novices, and they are highly effective for training or re-skilling operators.… Read more...

CIS Helps Clear a Construction Career Path for Returning Military

Crane Industry Services is working with staffing company AEG to help returning members of the military become job-ready in the construction trades as they transition back into the civilian workforce. The Department of Defense program is called SkillBridge. AEG pairs the individuals to partnering employers, while CIS evaluates their military credentials and trains them for a construction career.… Read more...