Unpopular opinion: I think the 'always use a spotter' rule is not always right

Got chewed out by a veteran operator on a site in Phoenix last year. He saw me doing a tricky blind lift solo with just my camera system and mirrors. He said, 'Kid, your eyes are better than any camera, and a spotter is your second pair. You're being lazy.' I argued that the tech was clear and I had full control. But his point about complacency stuck. I changed my method. Now, for any lift over 15 tons or with a complex swing path, I call for a spotter no matter how good my view is. It added maybe five minutes to my setup, but it forced me to slow down and double-check everything. The tech is a tool, not a replacement. Anyone else find themselves relying too much on the monitors and skipping the human check?

3 comments

3 Comments

simonl8625d ago

That veteran in Phoenix was right about the human check. Your new 15-ton rule is smart, but is five minutes really enough for a proper setup on a complex lift? A good spotter conversation should take longer than that to review the whole plan.

dylan41324d ago

Five minutes forces you to focus on the critical points, not get lost in the weeds. The real issue is whether the rule values a rushed checklist over actual understanding. A complex lift plan should be reviewed before you even step into the crane cab. Maybe the timer starts after that pre talk, not before.

bethcarr12d ago

Oh man, my buddy had a close call last year because his crew rushed the pre-lift talk. They were so focused on the clock they missed a power line on the plan. The five minute thing is nuts if you're not already on the same page.