Our Marine Forum in Perth considered the theme of Offshore Crane and Lifting Operations. The Marine Working Group, in collaboration with the Cranes and Lifting Working Group delivered an engaging agenda for delegates in attendance.

The event kicked off with more than 70 delegates representing marine and offshore sector of the WA/NT Australian Energy Production Industry, with Francis Bolzan (VP Australian Operations Support, Woodside), welcoming guests.

Two members shared some learnings from incidents, each generating questions from the audience, followed by Ben Finlay's (Crane SME and Lifting TA, Woodside) presentation focused on opportunities to standardise approach to assuring cranes, lifting equipment and lifting operations on rigs and vessels.

After the break, Percy Dhanbhoora (Director - Production Safety, NOPSEMA) presented a regulatory perspective on crane and lifting operations offshore. Percy was followed by Ruano Sumpf (Contractor Co-champion of the Cranes and Lifting Working Group and Regional Manager – Oceania, Axess Offshore Australia) sharing information about the Safer Together Offshore Crane Inspection and Maintenance Competence Guideline, a document that provides guidance to crane owners and service companies with regards to definitions of responsibilities, competency, qualification and training requirements for key roles, and the verification of competence process.

The Marine Working Group achieved a significant milestone by launching at the event the Safe Decks Operations e-Learn, a tool designed to support Safe Deck Operations Specification.  The tool:

  • Has been designed for facility personnel, vessel personnel and shore-based management teams involved in cargo operations, it
  • Summarises roles and responsibilities, key aspects of cargo operations and safe decks and how they are managed, and
  • Is accessible online, or as a downloadable LMS module.

We would like to acknowledge Perth Simulation Centre for their contribution of the material in the development of this e-learn.

Joel Mullins (Operations Director, Solstad) closed the event providing his reflections about the theme and presentations.

Thank you to event sponsors, Solstad Offshore and Woodside Energy.

Members can watch a full recording of this event.

If you would like to join our Marine Working Group, get in touch:  [email protected].