Positive results on new Franna alert system

Our heavy lift team have introduced a cutting-edge in-vehicle monitoring system (IVMS) override notification system to bolster safety measures and mitigate the risk of Franna crane tip-overs.  

The latest system, currently being trialled, promises real-time alerts and comprehensive data collection which is changing our approach to crane safety.

Over the past ten years, we have experienced multiple Franna tip-over events. A significant contributing factor has been operators holding down the override button, which increases crane capacity beyond safe limits. Heavy lift HSE lead Travis Gasper explained more about this. 

"In one notable 2022 incident, an override button was held for over a minute, causing the crane to exceed 150% of its capacity," Travis said. 

"Previously, gathering information on override button usage was a cumbersome task. 

"We had to download crane data from the Frannas and review historical data, which was not efficient." 

In response to these challenges, Heavy Lift has been trialling an innovative IVMS override notification system over the past 12 months.  

This system involves installing additional hardware on IVMS units to capture every activation of the anti-two block and overload overrides. 

"The trial has shown promising results," Gaspar noted.  

"The system is currently installed across our Franna fleet at Port Hedland and our crane services division, and we have the system installed in 14 Frannas with a further 4 to be installed in Karratha to complete the program across Heavy Lift." 

Each activation of the override button now triggers an immediate email notification to the nominated supervisor or superintendent, capturing crucial details such as the asset number, date, and time of button usage. 

"The real-time alerts allow supervisors to follow up immediately, preventing unsafe conditions and improving operator behaviour," Gaspar explained.  

"Since the trial began, data shows no instances of override button usage to exceed crane capacity." 

The system's integration with existing IVMS hardware ensures seamless operation and enhances current safety protocols.  

Given the trial's success, the team plans to roll out the IVMS override notification system across more Franna cranes, starting with EC projects and eventually extending company-wide. The system will also feature SMS notifications to ensure timely awareness and response.