A banksman or signaller oversees crane operations at a particular site. Since cranes and large vehicles may not be visible from the loading dock, banks manage related activities. In most civil engineering departments, banks are called reversing assistants.
Banksman duties
Banksmen carry out various tasks, including supervising the loading areas, assisting in loading and unloading activities and managing site traffic. Therefore, a signaller must be thorough, pay attention to detail, accept criticism, work under pressure, and know transport methods, costs, and benefits.
Banksman needs to be patient, remain calm in stressful situations, and work well with others.
This position demands a flexible and open person to change and physical skills like movement, coordination, agility, grace, and public safety and security knowledge.
Managing Traffic at Loading Docks
Banksmen are responsible for managing the traffic in loading areas. They look after and direct the flow of traffic and movement of vehicles at the site. Moreover, as the sites are usually crowded with cars and related activities, the banks greatly assist crane drivers in unloading and reversing. Hence, banksman plays an essential role in efficiently executing site operations.
In the video below, you can watch 17 minutes of Banksman training:
Supervision of Loading Areas
A bandsman is required to supervise the loading docks, maintain traffic control, check the bucket constantly, inspect the adjacent area for underground utilities, and ensure that the area is free from obstructions.
Here, they may run the risk of an unnoticeable reversing vehicle. So, it is necessary to put in place a safety system for banksmen’s safety, specifically if they oversee the loading sites and bucket work.
Assisting Loading/Unloading Activities
Banksmen generally help unload and load cranes and similar vehicles. However, there are times when the goods are surplus and can’t be tackled well without extra help. Likewise, bankers also assist in directing the movement of plant machines at the site.
How to Become a Banksman?
To become a banker in the US, you must have an authorized training certification and signaller training. Having an additional GSCE (General Certificate of Secondary Education) in the UK would be best. The next step is to look for job offers in the construction market.
Difference between banksman and rigger
In construction, a rigger is a person responsible for securing a load to lift, pull, hoist, or move, and a banksman or signaller oversees the operations of cranes at a particular site.
From 2022 onwards, Mark has also been contributing author of home repair articles at nimblefreelancer.com.
Read more on Mark Brown's biography page.
Contact Mark: mark@nimblefreelancer.com