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Dogger

Also known as Crane Chaser.

Doggers attach slings to cranes and direct the movement of loads handled by cranes in locations such as manufacturing plants, construction and mining sites, and the maritime industry.

Doggers work both in and out of view of crane drivers.

They have to be continually alert for people or objects that may come in the path of the load.

TASKS

Doggers may perform the following tasks:

check loads to be moved, estimating size, shape, weight and centre of gravity, and ensure loads do not exceed lifting capacities of cranes
attach lifting devices to hoisting equipment and items to be moved, using clamps, hooks, bolts and knots
choose and use slings and other grappling devices, covering sharp corners with padding to prevent damage to slings
use hand signals, whistles or two-way radios when the load is not visible to crane or winch operators
guide loads into position as they are lowered
inspect chains, slings, ropes, cables, hooks and lifting gear for flaws and damage such as cracks, wear, mildew and corrosion, and report defects

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

enjoy practical and outdoor work
safety-conscious
good hearing and vision
able to cope with the physical demands of the job
able to judge distances
able to work at heights
at least 18 years of age

Interest Area

EDUCATION & TRAINING

To become a dogger you usually have to obtain a licence to Perform High Risk Work issued by SafeWork NSW or WorkSafe ACT. To gain a licence, you will need to complete units of competency at an approved Registered Training Organisation and work under the supervision of a licensed operator. You will also need to keep an approved logbook to record competencies achieved during training. Assessment by an independent assessor will then be required. The Perform High Risk Work Licence is issued under the National Standard for Licensing Persons Performing High Risk Work.

You can also become a dogger through a traineeship in Dogging.

Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.

Additional Information

You must be 18 years of age to be eligible to obtain a Perform High Risk Work Licence. However, training may commence at a younger age.

All those who work in the construction industry must undergo safety induction training and be issued with a Construction Induction Card (CIC). In NSW, training is conducted by Registered Training Organisations authorised by SafeWork NSW. In the ACT, training is provided by Registered Training Organisations approved by WorkSafe ACT.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Most employers of doggers are construction, mining, maritime and crane-hiring firms. Opportunities for doggers are increased when there is growth in these industries. In periods of high activity, doggers may have more opportunity to advance to positions such as crane operator or rigger.

Federal, state and territory government departments often hire subcontractors for the building of public works.