The use of calculators in operator tests raises some important questions about the skills needed to operate a modern crane. Do operators need to demonstrate an ability to perform mental arithmetic, or is it safe to assume they will always have the tools available to do this for them?

Clearly, the majority of respondents felt that this level of numeracy is no longer relevant to modern crane operation: of 32 respondents, 26 (81%) voted yes, and only 6 (19%) voted no.

&#8220Tjerko Jurgens, Hydrospex owner, in Strand Jacks, page 21”

If you’re a contractor, facing damage liabilities, who do you want making the decisions, an operator or a computer?

There’s a new poll at www.cranestodaymagazine.com every month. This month we are asking: Should workers who are not fluent in your country’s primary language be barred from working on, or around, cranes?